All Resident Evil Games (2026 Guide)

Resident Evil is the franchise that defined survival horror, spanning nearly three decades of terrifying mansions, sprawling cities, and viral outbreaks. With numbered entries, remakes, spin-offs, and reimaginings, keeping track of all Resident Evil games can be daunting for newcomers. This guide walks through the series in order, highlights the essential entries, and helps you decide where to begin your journey into horror.

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Understanding All Resident Evil Games in Order

The Resident Evil timeline begins with the 1996 original, which introduced the Spencer Mansion, zombies, and the sinister Umbrella Corporation. The mainline series follows a rough chronological order: Resident Evil, Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, Code Veronica, Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 5, Resident Evil 6, Resident Evil 7 Biohazard, and Resident Evil Village. Alongside these, Capcom has released acclaimed remakes of the first three numbered games plus Resident Evil 4, modernizing the classics for new audiences.

The series also includes numerous spin-offs like the Revelations games, the light-gun Chronicles titles, and the online-focused Resident Evil Resistance and Re:Verse. For someone approaching all Resident Evil games for the first time, the remakes of Resident Evil 2, 3, and 4 are the best modern entry points, offering updated controls and visuals while preserving the horror. Resident Evil 7 marked a shift to first-person perspective, and Village continued that immersive direction, both delivering some of the franchise’s most atmospheric scares.

The Classic Era

The original trilogy and Code Veronica established fixed-camera survival horror with limited resources and tense exploration. These games defined the genre. To appreciate the atmospheric remakes on modern hardware, a quality display helps, and our best gaming monitor guide explains what to prioritize, while the best gaming controller guide covers comfortable pads for tense encounters.

The Action Shift

Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the series with an over-the-shoulder camera and action-focused gameplay, influencing countless games. Its 2023 remake is widely considered one of the best in the franchise. For PC players who want precise aiming during frantic firefights, our best gaming mouse guide highlights top options for horror and action titles.

Best Resident Evil Games to Play First

These entries represent the highest points of the franchise and make excellent starting places for anyone exploring all Resident Evil games.

Remakes Versus Originals

Capcom’s remakes modernize the classics while staying faithful to their stories, making them the recommended way to experience the early games. Purists can still enjoy the originals for their historical charm. Long horror sessions are more comfortable in a supportive seat, so our best gaming chair guide is worth considering for marathon playthroughs.

First-Person Horror

Resident Evil 7 and Village brought a first-person perspective that heightens immersion and fear. These entries are excellent for players who want maximum tension. To reduce loading between terrifying set pieces, our best SSD for gaming guide explains how fast storage keeps the horror seamless and uninterrupted.

Multiplayer and Spin-Offs

Beyond the mainline entries, the series includes co-op action in Resident Evil 5 and 6, plus online modes and light-gun shooters. These broaden the experience for players who want variety. For cross-platform players who also game on PC, our best gaming keyboard guide covers responsive boards for quick reactions during intense moments.

Where to Start

Newcomers should begin with the Resident Evil 2 Remake or Resident Evil 4 Remake, both of which offer accessible controls and gripping stories. From there, exploring all Resident Evil games in chronological or release order deepens your understanding of the overarching Umbrella narrative and the fate of recurring heroes like Leon, Chris, and Jill.

The Legacy of Horror

Resident Evil remains the gold standard for survival horror, influencing the entire genre for decades. Its blend of tension, resource management, and memorable villains keeps fans returning. As Capcom continues remaking classics and developing new entries, the franchise shows no signs of slowing, ensuring all Resident Evil games remain essential playing for horror enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order to play all Resident Evil games?

The chronological mainline order is Resident Evil, Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, Code Veronica, Resident Evil 4, 5, 6, then Resident Evil 7 and Village. However, for newcomers, playing the modern remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 4 first offers the most accessible and polished introduction to the series and its story.

Which Resident Evil game should I start with?

The Resident Evil 2 Remake or Resident Evil 4 Remake are the best starting points, offering modern controls, stunning visuals, and gripping stories. Both are accessible to newcomers while delivering the tense survival horror the series is famous for, making them ideal introductions before diving into the broader franchise timeline.

Are the Resident Evil remakes better than the originals?

The remakes modernize controls, graphics, and pacing while staying faithful to the original stories, making them the recommended way to experience the classic entries for most players. However, the originals retain historical charm and fixed-camera tension that some purists prefer, so both versions offer worthwhile and distinct survival horror experiences.

Do I need to play every Resident Evil game to understand the story?

No, you do not need to play every entry to enjoy the series, as many games tell self-contained stories. However, playing the mainline numbered entries and key remakes helps you follow the overarching Umbrella Corporation narrative and the journeys of recurring heroes like Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, and Jill Valentine.