A number of offerings are eligible for the title of the best Resident Evil game, which is why we’ve decided to list some of the finest ones the series has seen till date. Based on the massive media franchise created by Shinji Mikami, these games have given the industry a large number of innovations in the survival horror genre. The overall story arches which are explored through these ace video games revolve around multiple characters and their roles in frequent zombie outbreaks and occurrences of other monsters caused by the release of deadly viruses by the fictional Umbrella Company. The series was conceived in 1996 when its first title was launched for the PlayStation. Capcom still keeps releasing new RE games from time to time, which is testament to the fact that it’s a somewhat timeless franchise. Here’s a compilation of the some of the finest RE games which have taken the series to the high plinth it currently sits on.
1 – Resident Evil
Often credited to have started the modern survival horror genre, this first ever Resident Evil game may feature extremely dated graphics, but it’s still a superb experience to have. Starring series regulars Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, Resident Evil managed to introduce a number of customs to gaming in general, with its control scheme, the inventory system, its unique save system and more, which not only made themselves permanent in future RE games, but were also borrowed by other developers. The first Resident Evil can now be played on the Nintendo DS as well as the PS3, PSP and PS Vita.
2 – Resident Evil 2
In 1998 came the second entry to the series, and it grabbed the fancy of fans once again with its unique and scary offerings. Resident Evil 2 has its story focused on protagonists Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield’s efforts to escape from a city whose residents have been transformed into zombies. Exploration, puzzle solving and combat are some of the game’s main aspects, and so are its survival horror elements which include limited saves and ammunition. This game is also known for its Zapping System which grants different story-lines and obstacles to different players. Resident Evil 2 can be played now on your PS3, PSP or PS Vita systems.
3 – Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Improved graphics, better sound and relatively polished gameplay were brought in by Resident Evil 3: Nemesis when it came out back in 1999. The exciting and frenzied situations made possible by the game are still talked about by hardened fans of the series. Story-wise, its first half takes place a day prior to the events of Resident Evil 2, while the second half starts nearly two days after that. New gameplay traits include the ability to duck and dodge attacks from the enemies, and even a Live Choice system, which both add a lot of versatility to the whole experience. Just like the other two games, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis too can be bought currently for the PS3, PSP and the PS Vita through PSN.
4 – Resident Evil Code: Veronica
One of the highest rated games of all time, Resident Evil Code: Veronica was the first RE title to kick in 3D backgrounds, which resulted in an absolutely transformed visual exuberance. The story of this title has its focus set on Claire Redfield and Steve Burnside, and transpires during a T-virus outbreak on a remote island. Following the completion of its main campaign, a Battle Game mode is unlocked, allowing you to choose from one of five characters and make your way through several rooms of monsters while racing against the clock. Resident Evil Code: Veronica can be purchased now for the PS3 and the Xbox 360.
5 – Resident Evil Zero
First released for the GameCube in 2002, and then in 2009 for the Wii, Resident Evil Zero is fraught with some really exciting scenarios that should please anyone who has cravings for RE games. A pure survival horror offering, it acts as a prequel to the first title from the series, chronicling the events experienced by the S.T.A.R.S. Bravo Team 24 hours prior to the original game.
6 – Resident Evil 4 HD
One of the most influential survival horror titles ever, Resident Evil 4 took the world by storm with is utterly scary yet extremely satisfying gameplay when it came out in 2005. It embraces a unique third-person shooter model, and tells the gripping story of a sinister cult from rural Europe which has kidnapped the American president’s daughter, and is populated by undead villagers and mutated monsters. Resident Evil 4 can be purchased for a wide variety of platforms including the GameCube, PS2, PC, Wii and iPhone, but its PSN and Xbox Live versions are actually HD remakes which add more visual value to the experience.
7 – Resident Evil 5
Capcom’s 2009 offering acted as the seventh main installment to the RE series, and it revolved around the exploits of Chris Redfield and new character Sheva Alomar’s investigation of a terrorist threat in a location within Africa which has been infested with undead creatures. Available for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, it features an cooperative multiplayer mode which allows you to play its entire campaign with someone by your side, either through online connectivity or in split screen fashion.
8 – Resident Evil: Revelations
Resident Evil: Revelations was released exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS last year, but earlier this year, it was also launched for PC, the PS3, the Xbox 360 and the Wii U. Some serious survival horror gameplay is on offer through this title, and fans of the genre should definitely give it a whip. Its story transpires between the events from RE 4 and RE 5, and allows you to assume control Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine.
Conclusion:
It’s hard to choose the best Resident Evil game among these, but we’d advice you play all of them to gain from them the brilliant experiences which they are known for.