The Resident Evil franchise, created by Capcom, is a survival horror series that debuted in 1996. It follows the battle against bioweapons and viral outbreaks, primarily caused by the sinister Umbrella Corporation. The series features iconic characters like Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, Leon S. Kennedy, and Claire Redfield, who fight hordes of zombies, mutated creatures, and bio-organic weapons (B.O.W.s).
Known for its tense atmosphere, resource management, and puzzle-solving, Resident Evil has evolved from fixed-camera survival horror to action-packed gameplay in later titles. It has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, remakes, films, and TV adaptations, cementing its status as one of the most influential horror gaming franchises of all time.
Resident Evil
Release Date: March 22, 1996
A Survival Horror Classic
Released on March 22, 1996, Resident Evil revolutionized the survival horror genre with its tense atmosphere, limited resources, and unforgettable jump scares. Set in the eerie Spencer Mansion, players control Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine as they uncover a terrifying conspiracy filled with zombies, mutant creatures, and deadly traps.
The game’s fixed camera angles and tank controls add to the tension, forcing players to think strategically about every move. While the voice acting is notoriously cheesy, it only adds to the game’s charm. With its mix of puzzles, exploration, and horror, Resident Evil remains a landmark title that laid the foundation for one of gaming’s most iconic franchises.
⭐ 9/10 – A true survival horror masterpiece.
Resident Evil 2
Release Date: January 21, 1998
A Perfect Sequel That Redefined Horror
Released on January 21, 1998, Resident Evil 2 took everything great about its predecessor and amplified it. With two playable protagonists—Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield—the game expanded the story beyond the Spencer Mansion to the terrifying, zombie-infested Raccoon City. The improved graphics, larger environments, and refined gameplay made for a more immersive and cinematic experience.
The addition of the "Zapping System," which changed elements of the story depending on the order in which players completed each character’s campaign, added immense replay value. With chilling sound design, intense boss fights, and the relentless Tyrant (Mr. X) in the B-scenario, Resident Evil 2 cemented itself as one of the greatest survival horror games of all time.
⭐ 10/10 – A horror masterpiece that still holds up today.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Release Date: September 22, 1999
Relentless Terror at Its Best
Released on September 22, 1999, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis cranked up the intensity with faster gameplay, a more action-oriented approach, and one of the franchise’s most terrifying enemies—the relentless Nemesis. Players once again step into the shoes of Jill Valentine as she fights to escape a crumbling, zombie-infested Raccoon City while being stalked by the nearly indestructible bioweapon.
The introduction of the dodge mechanic, live selection choices, and enhanced enemy AI made for a more dynamic experience, keeping players on edge at all times. While it leaned more into action than its predecessors, the game never lost its horror roots, delivering some of the series’ most iconic and pulse-pounding moments.
⭐ 9/10 – A thrilling, high-stakes survival horror experience.
Resident Evil Survivor
Release Date: January 27, 2000
A Missed Opportunity in the Franchise
Released on January 27, 2000, Resident Evil Survivor was the franchise’s first attempt at a first-person shooter, but unfortunately, it fell short of expectations. Set in the aftermath of Raccoon City’s destruction, players assume the role of Ark Thompson, a man suffering from amnesia, as he explores Sheena Island—a new location filled with Umbrella’s horrific creations.
The game’s biggest flaw was its lack of light gun support outside of Japan, making the shooting mechanics feel clunky and imprecise. Combined with weak enemy AI, bland level design, and a forgettable story, Survivor failed to capture the tension and horror that made the series great. While it has some cult appeal, especially for hardcore fans, it remains one of the weakest entries in the Resident Evil franchise.
⭐ 5/10 – A lackluster experiment that struggles to deliver real scares.
Resident Evil – Code: Veronica
Release Date: February 3, 2000
A Cinematic Evolution of Survival Horror
Released on February 3, 2000, Resident Evil – Code: Veronica marked a major leap forward for the series, delivering a deeper story, fully 3D environments, and more cinematic presentation. Following Claire Redfield’s continued search for her brother, Chris, the game takes players to Rockfort Island and later an Antarctic base, both teeming with new horrors and sinister Umbrella experiments.
The game refined the classic survival horror formula with improved graphics, dynamic camera angles, and a longer, more engaging narrative. Memorable villains like Alfred and Alexia Ashford, along with tense gameplay and brutal enemies, made Code: Veronica one of the most ambitious Resident Evil titles of its time. While it retained the tank controls and limited resources of its predecessors, the increased scale and storytelling depth made it feel like the next evolution of the franchise.
⭐ 9/10 – A gripping and cinematic horror experience.
Resident Evil Survivor 2 – Code: Veronica
Release Date (Consoles): November 8, 2001
A Forgettable Spin-Off
Released on November 8, 2001, Resident Evil Survivor 2 – Code: Veronica attempted to merge the light-gun shooter format with the narrative of Code: Veronica, but the result was an uninspired and repetitive experience. Players take on the roles of Claire Redfield and Steve Burnside as they relive a "dream-like" version of the events from Code: Veronica, facing waves of enemies while being relentlessly pursued by the ever-present Nemesis-like Tyrant.
While the game featured fast-paced arcade-style action and light-gun support (on some versions), it lacked the depth, tension, and polish that made the mainline Resident Evil games so compelling. The recycled environments and enemy encounters, along with a lackluster story, made this feel more like a quick cash-in than a meaningful addition to the series.
⭐ 4/10 – A shallow, forgettable shooter that fails to capture the horror of Resident Evil.
Resident Evil Gaiden
Release Date: December 14, 2001
An Ambitious but Flawed Handheld Experiment
Released on December 14, 2001, Resident Evil Gaiden attempted to bring survival horror to the Game Boy Color, an ambitious task given the hardware limitations. Starring Leon S. Kennedy and Barry Burton, the game takes place on a cruise ship overrun with B.O.W.s, offering a unique setting apart from the usual city or lab environments.
The biggest departure from the main series was its combat system, which used a first-person, timing-based mechanic rather than traditional shooting. While innovative, it quickly became repetitive. The game's story, which exists outside the main Resident Evil canon, had an intriguing premise but was ultimately hampered by the limitations of the platform.
Despite its atmospheric soundtrack and decent attempt at survival horror on a handheld, Gaiden suffered from clunky gameplay and repetitive design, making it more of a curiosity for hardcore fans than a must-play entry.
⭐ 5/10 – An interesting but flawed experiment in portable survival horror.
Resident Evil (2002 Remake)
Release Date: March 22, 2002
The Ultimate Survival Horror Experience
Released on March 22, 2002, the Resident Evil remake for the GameCube took the original 1996 classic and elevated it to new heights, setting the standard for remakes in the industry. With stunning updated graphics, more immersive sound design, and expanded story elements, the remake revitalized the Spencer Mansion’s eerie atmosphere while staying true to the core survival horror gameplay.
The game introduced new areas, enemies, and story twists, while retaining the fixed camera angles, tank controls, and limited resources that made the original so iconic. The terrifying visual overhaul, especially the atmospheric lighting and grotesque monster designs, pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time. The added "Real Survival Mode" and multiple difficulty levels offered plenty of replay value.
This remake not only enhanced the original but also delivered a terrifying, definitive version of Resident Evil that remains one of the best survival horror games ever made.
⭐ 10/10 – A masterclass in survival horror remakes.
Resident Evil Zero
Release Date: November 12, 2002
A Prequel That Expands the Horror
Released on November 12, 2002, Resident Evil Zero serves as a prequel to the original Resident Evil, offering players a deeper look into the origins of the outbreak. Set on the infamous training facility and the eerie Ecliptic Express train, the game follows Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen as they try to uncover the truth behind the virus outbreak.
The game introduced a new mechanic where players control both Rebecca and Billy simultaneously, using the unique abilities of each character to solve puzzles and combat enemies. This dual-character system added a fresh layer of strategy, though it could feel a bit cumbersome at times. The atmosphere, creatures, and detailed environments were top-notch, and the story provided valuable insight into the early days of Umbrella’s experiments.
While Resident Evil Zero delivered the tense survival horror experience fans craved, the lack of item boxes (requiring careful inventory management) and a somewhat slower pace made it feel less accessible than other entries in the series. Still, it was a strong addition to the Resident Evil lore, with its dark storyline and eerie settings.
⭐ 8/10 – A solid prequel that deepens the lore but feels like a step back in gameplay innovation.
Resident Evil: Dead Aim
Release Date: February 13, 2003
A Shotgun Approach to Survival Horror
Released on February 13, 2003, Resident Evil: Dead Aim was an attempt to bring the Resident Evil franchise to the PlayStation 2 with a first-person shooter twist. Set aboard a hijacked cruise ship, players control Bruce McGivern, a U.S. government agent, as he navigates through a ship infested with zombies and other B.O.W.s.
The game combined traditional third-person exploration with first-person shooting mechanics, and although it introduced light-gun support for a more immersive experience, it struggled to replicate the tension and atmosphere that defined the mainline Resident Evil games. The fixed camera angles felt awkward in the first-person sections, and the game’s plot was forgettable, failing to add much to the series’ lore.
Despite its shortcomings, Dead Aim offered some fun moments with the light-gun mechanics and decent visuals for the time. However, it was ultimately a less polished and less memorable entry in the franchise.
⭐ 6/10 – A decent, but flawed, spin-off that fails to reach the series’ true potential.
Resident Evil Outbreak
Release Date: December 11, 2003
A Bold Online Experiment
Released on December 11, 2003, Resident Evil Outbreak took a bold step into the realm of online multiplayer, allowing players to team up and survive a zombie apocalypse in Raccoon City. This was a unique entry in the series, as it focused more on cooperative gameplay than the traditional single-player experience. Players could select from several characters, each with unique skills, to navigate different scenarios and escape the infected city.
The game’s online multiplayer was a major selling point, offering a fresh twist on the classic Resident Evil formula. However, due to technical limitations and the PlayStation 2’s aging online infrastructure, the online experience wasn’t as seamless as hoped, and the lack of a proper single-player campaign made it feel incomplete for solo players.
While Outbreak offered fun moments with friends and introduced some great co-op mechanics, it lacked the deep storytelling and immersive atmosphere that made the core series so compelling. It was a fun, if flawed, experiment that paved the way for future online horror games.
⭐ 7/10 – A unique multiplayer experience that struggles with execution.
Resident Evil Outbreak: File #2
Release Date: September 9, 2004
A Refinement of the Concept
Released on September 9, 2004, Resident Evil Outbreak: File #2 improved upon its predecessor by offering better gameplay mechanics, refined multiplayer modes, and additional scenarios. While Outbreak had laid the groundwork for cooperative survival horror, File #2 made several key enhancements, including smoother online play, more character options, and tighter controls. The game featured new environments and more engaging scenarios, continuing the story of a group of survivors in Raccoon City during the T-virus outbreak.
The focus on online multiplayer was still central, but it also offered an offline mode with improved AI for solo players, addressing some of the major criticisms of the original. The characters were more diverse, and the scenarios felt more polished, but the lack of a larger narrative still left the game feeling disconnected from the core Resident Evil saga.
Though it refined the co-op experience and added fun new elements, Outbreak: File #2 remained a niche title, primarily appealing to fans of the online survival genre rather than the broader Resident Evil audience.
⭐ 7.5/10 – A more polished and enjoyable multiplayer experience, but still lacking the depth of mainline Resident Evil titles.
Resident Evil 4
Release Date: January 11, 2005
A Revolution in Survival Horror
Released on January 11, 2005, Resident Evil 4 redefined the survival horror genre, bringing a fresh perspective and a new direction to the series. Moving away from the fixed camera angles and slow-paced exploration of earlier entries, Resident Evil 4 introduced an over-the-shoulder camera, intense action sequences, and a more fast-paced, dynamic combat system. Players control Leon S. Kennedy as he ventures into a rural Spanish village to rescue the U.S. President’s daughter, Ashley Graham, from a terrifying cult.
The game expertly balanced action with horror, maintaining the atmosphere and tension Resident Evil is known for while introducing thrilling shootouts, puzzles, and intense encounters with grotesque enemies. The enemy AI was advanced for its time, with enemies actively coordinating and adapting to the player's tactics. The vast array of weapons, upgrades, and even the introduction of the merchant added a layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay.
Resident Evil 4 was a monumental success, praised for its innovation, captivating storyline, and stunning visuals. It remains one of the most influential games in the history of survival horror and is often regarded as one of the best video games ever made.
⭐ 10/10 – A genre-defining classic that still holds up as a benchmark for survival horror and action games alike.
Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles
Release Date: November 13, 2007
A Rail Shooter Retrospective
Released on November 13, 2007, Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles offered fans a chance to relive the core events of the Resident Evil series in a new, rail shooter format. Focused on the rise and fall of the Umbrella Corporation, the game revisited key moments from Resident Evil, Resident Evil 0, and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, with players controlling familiar characters like Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and Rebecca Chambers.
The rail-shooter mechanics allowed for a more action-packed experience, as players shot their way through linear levels filled with zombies and other bio-organic weapons (B.O.W.s). While it was a fun and accessible take on the Resident Evil formula, the game was a departure from the traditional survival horror gameplay, with a heavier focus on action rather than exploration and puzzle-solving.
The game’s replay value was enhanced by unlockable weapons, alternate story routes, and co-op play, but it lacked the depth and atmosphere that made the mainline entries so iconic. Umbrella Chronicles was more of a fan service project, offering a new perspective on the series’ story rather than a true survival horror experience.
⭐ 7/10 – A fun, action-packed diversion for fans, but lacking the tension and depth of the core series.
Resident Evil 5
Release Date: March 5, 2009
A Bold Shift Toward Action
Released on March 5, 2009, Resident Evil 5 took the series in a more action-oriented direction, marking a significant departure from the survival horror roots of earlier entries. Set in the deserts of Africa, players control Chris Redfield alongside his new partner, Sheva Alomar, as they investigate a viral outbreak tied to the remnants of the Umbrella Corporation. The game introduced cooperative gameplay, allowing two players to team up and battle hordes of infected enemies together.
The over-the-shoulder camera and refined controls, first seen in Resident Evil 4, returned, but the emphasis on combat and large-scale action set pieces overshadowed the tension and exploration that fans had come to expect from the franchise. The game’s pacing was faster, and enemies were more numerous, resulting in less of the nerve-wracking horror and more of a thrilling, action-packed experience.
While Resident Evil 5 had a strong multiplayer element and engaging combat mechanics, the lack of traditional survival horror elements—such as limited ammo, atmospheric dread, and slower pacing—was a divisive shift for long-time fans. Still, it was a solid action game with a compelling story, especially for those who enjoyed the more action-focused direction.
⭐ 8/10 – A thrilling co-op action experience, but a departure from the survival horror formula that defined the series.
Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles
Release Date: November 17, 2009
A Rail Shooter with a Darker Twist
Released on November 17, 2009, Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles continued the rail shooter format introduced by The Umbrella Chronicles, but with a more focused, darker narrative. The game revisits key moments from Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil Code: Veronica, along with an original story, as players control Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield through intense, action-packed scenarios.
The visuals and storytelling were a noticeable improvement over Umbrella Chronicles, with more cinematic cutscenes and smoother gameplay. The combat was tight, and the game’s pacing felt more engaging, with less of the repetitive structure that hampered its predecessor. The addition of a more cohesive plot, with a focus on the characters’ development and motivations, gave the game more narrative depth than other rail shooters.
While The Darkside Chronicles was a fun experience, especially in co-op, it still lacked the core survival horror elements that made Resident Evil iconic. The shift toward action and fast-paced shooting made the game more of an arcade-style experience than a true Resident Evil survival horror entry.
⭐ 7.5/10 – A thrilling rail shooter with improved visuals and story, but still a departure from classic Resident Evil survival horror.
Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D
Release Date: June 2, 2011
Action-Packed Arcade Fun
Released on June 2, 2011, Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D brought the fast-paced, action-packed "Mercenaries" mode to the Nintendo 3DS, offering a fun, arcade-style experience rather than the traditional survival horror gameplay. Players can control a variety of characters from the Resident Evil universe, including Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and Wesker, as they battle waves of enemies to rack up the highest score within a time limit.
The gameplay focuses purely on combat, with players trying to survive and defeat enemies in tightly designed arenas. The graphics, given the limitations of the 3DS, were impressive for the platform, and the 3D effects added a nice touch to the experience. However, the game was heavily focused on action, with little to no story or exploration elements, making it a diversion for fans who enjoyed the Mercenaries mode in previous titles but not something that will appeal to those seeking the series' signature survival horror atmosphere.
The addition of unlockable characters, weapons, and stages added some replay value, but the overall experience felt like a side attraction rather than a full-fledged Resident Evil game. Still, for action fans, it offered plenty of chaotic fun.
⭐ 6.5/10 – A fun, if shallow, action-focused experience with limited depth.
Resident Evil: Revelations
Release Date: January 26, 2012
A Return to Survival Horror
Released on January 26, 2012, Resident Evil: Revelations marked a return to the series' survival horror roots after the action-heavy Resident Evil 5. Set between the events of Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5, players control Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield as they investigate a mysterious viral outbreak aboard a cruise ship. The game blends traditional survival horror elements, such as limited ammo and atmospheric exploration, with more modern gameplay mechanics, including an over-the-shoulder camera and fluid combat.
Revelations impressed with its visual quality, especially for a Nintendo 3DS title, boasting crisp, detailed environments and a tense atmosphere that harkened back to the best parts of the earlier games in the series. The ship setting provided a claustrophobic, eerie environment perfect for the suspenseful tone. The game also introduced the "Raid Mode," a fun, replayable co-op mode where players can tackle stages and earn upgrades.
While it wasn’t as revolutionary as some of the franchise’s landmark titles, Revelations successfully recaptured the horror and tension that made Resident Evil famous, making it one of the best portable entries in the series.
⭐ 8.5/10 – A fantastic return to form for survival horror fans, with great atmosphere and a solid gameplay experience.
Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City
Release Date: March 20, 2012
A Missed Opportunity for Team-Based Action
Released on March 20, 2012, Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City attempted to mix the Resident Evil universe with a squad-based, third-person shooter experience. Set during the events of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3, players control Umbrella Security Service (USS) soldiers sent to eliminate evidence of Umbrella’s involvement in the Raccoon City outbreak, all while battling zombies and B.O.W.s. The game also features a multiplayer mode where teams of players take on either the USS or the U.S. Special Forces, providing a different take on the franchise’s usual single-player formula.
While the game had a promising concept, the execution fell flat. The controls were clunky, the story was shallow, and the AI for both teammates and enemies was often frustratingly unrefined. The decision to focus on action and multiplayer rather than the survival horror elements alienated longtime fans who were hoping for a more traditional Resident Evil experience. While the game offered some fun co-op moments, the overall lack of polish and depth made it feel more like a spin-off than a main entry in the series.
Operation Raccoon City had potential but ultimately failed to capture the essence of Resident Evil’s horror, instead offering a forgettable, action-heavy experience.
⭐ 5/10 – A flawed and underwhelming shooter that doesn’t live up to the Resident Evil legacy.
Resident Evil 6
Release Date: October 2, 2012
A Bold but Overambitious Action Game
Released on October 2, 2012, Resident Evil 6 aimed to deliver a massive, global narrative and cater to a wide range of gameplay preferences. Featuring four interconnected campaigns, players can control Leon S. Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Jake Muller (Wesker’s son), and Ada Wong, each with distinct playstyles ranging from survival horror to full-on action. The game’s ambition to blend diverse gameplay elements, from traditional horror to high-octane action sequences, made it a departure from the series’ roots.
The story spans various international locations, involving both bioterrorism and the aftermath of the T-virus outbreak. While the cinematic visuals, detailed character models, and over-the-top action sequences were impressive, the game leaned heavily into action, combat, and quick-time events, leaving little room for the slow-paced tension that fans of Resident Evil had come to love. The excessive focus on shootouts, fast-paced sequences, and co-op play pushed the game away from its survival horror identity.
Despite mixed reviews, Resident Evil 6 was a technically competent game with impressive production values, but it ultimately felt unfocused and scattered. Its heavy action approach and lack of true survival horror made it less memorable for fans of the series' earlier, darker entries.
⭐ 6.5/10 – Ambitious but flawed, offering action-packed gameplay at the cost of the series' classic horror atmosphere.
Resident Evil: Revelations 2
Release Date: February 24, 2015
A Solid Return to Survival Horror
Released on February 24, 2015, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 brought the series back to its survival horror roots, delivering a tense, episodic experience that captured the eerie atmosphere fans missed. Set several years after the events of Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6, the game follows Claire Redfield and newcomer Moira Burton, as they find themselves trapped on an abandoned island and must survive against horrifying creatures and uncover the mysteries behind their captivity.
The game’s episodic format, with four episodes released over a month, added an intriguing structure, and the storytelling effectively built suspense over time. The split between Claire and Moira (with Claire focusing on combat and Moira offering puzzle-solving skills) created an engaging dynamic for both single-player and co-op play. The introduction of more traditional Resident Evil mechanics, such as limited ammo and puzzles, made it feel like a return to the older games, and the atmospheric environments were rich with tension and dread.
Though the graphics weren’t groundbreaking, Revelations 2 excelled in creating a compelling survival horror experience with smart gameplay choices and a strong story that left a lasting impact. The game successfully combined action with classic survival horror elements, providing an enjoyable experience for both new and longtime fans.
⭐ 8/10 – A welcome return to the roots of survival horror with strong gameplay and compelling episodic storytelling.
Resident Evil: Umbrella Corps
Release Date: June 21, 2016
A Misstep in the Franchise
Released on June 21, 2016, Resident Evil: Umbrella Corps aimed to deliver a competitive, team-based shooter set in the Resident Evil universe, but it fell short in almost every aspect. The game features fast-paced, close-quarters combat and a unique "Zombify" mechanic, where players can use zombies to attack opponents. However, despite the franchise's history of engaging survival horror experiences, Umbrella Corps offered none of the tension or atmosphere that fans had come to expect.
The game’s mechanics felt clunky, with awkward controls and poor AI. The visuals were underwhelming, and the environments—though based on iconic Resident Evil locations—felt generic and uninspired. The competitive multiplayer aspect lacked depth and failed to offer meaningful gameplay compared to other team-based shooters on the market.
The decision to prioritize multiplayer combat over the core survival horror experience was a disappointing misstep. Umbrella Corps felt like a cash grab, aiming to capitalize on the Resident Evil brand without offering the quality gameplay or atmosphere that made the series so beloved.
⭐ 4/10 – A poorly executed and forgettable spin-off that fails to capture the essence of Resident Evil.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
Release Date: January 24, 2017
A Masterful Return to Horror
Released on January 24, 2017, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard was a monumental reinvention for the series. Returning to its survival horror roots, the game adopted a first-person perspective, creating an immersive, tense, and terrifying experience. Set in a dilapidated plantation house in rural Louisiana, players control Ethan Winters, a man searching for his missing wife, Mia, only to find himself trapped in a nightmarish situation with the monstrous Baker family.
The shift to first-person was a gamble, but it paid off brilliantly by amplifying the sense of isolation and dread. The claustrophobic environments, realistic visuals, and disturbing atmosphere reminded players of the series’ earlier horror-filled days. Ammo was scarce, puzzles were challenging, and the eerie feeling of being hunted by grotesque enemies was back in full force. The game also featured VR compatibility, further enhancing the immersion for players brave enough to experience it in that mode.
While Resident Evil 7 still included action sequences, they were well-balanced with horror, and the game’s storytelling was compelling, with plenty of twists and connections to the series' broader lore. It successfully revitalized the franchise and drew new players in, while satisfying long-time fans with a return to form.
⭐ 9/10 – A brilliant return to survival horror, revitalizing the franchise with a terrifying, immersive experience.
Resident Evil 2 (2019 Remake)
Release Date: January 25, 2019
A Masterclass in Remakes
Released on January 25, 2019, Resident Evil 2 (2019 Remake) is widely regarded as one of the best remakes in gaming history. The game completely reimagines the 1998 classic, maintaining the core story and iconic characters—Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield—but with stunning new visuals, modernized controls, and a deeper, more immersive experience.
The shift from fixed camera angles to a third-person, over-the-shoulder perspective brought a fresh feel to the game while retaining its core horror elements. The overhauled visuals, powered by the RE Engine, brought Raccoon City and its horrifying denizens to life with incredible detail, while the atmospheric sound design and immersive environments kept players on edge throughout. The meticulous recreation of the original’s locations—along with expanded areas—gave fans of the original something familiar, yet new.
The gameplay is a blend of classic survival horror, with limited ammo and tense moments of exploration, alongside modern mechanics like improved controls and refined AI. The reworked combat system felt more fluid, making it easier to navigate the terrifying zombie-infested world, but the game still maintained the challenge, especially with the relentless, terrifying Mr. X hunting you down.
Resident Evil 2 (2019) was a perfect example of how to honor a beloved classic while breathing new life into it. It combined nostalgia with cutting-edge technology to deliver one of the best survival horror experiences of the generation.
⭐ 10/10 – A brilliant remake that captures the heart of the original while elevating it to new heights with modern gameplay and visuals.
Resident Evil 3 (2020 Remake)
Release Date: April 3, 2020
A Thrilling, Yet Condensed Experience
Released on April 3, 2020, Resident Evil 3 (2020 Remake) modernized the 1999 classic, offering an action-packed, visually stunning take on the original. Set during the same time frame as Resident Evil 2, players once again control Jill Valentine, this time trying to escape a Raccoon City overrun by zombies and pursued relentlessly by the terrifying Nemesis. The game features the same over-the-shoulder camera from the Resident Evil 2 remake and uses the RE Engine, bringing the world to life with impressive detail and realism.
While the remake was a visual and technical success, it received mixed reactions due to its streamlined content. Unlike its predecessor, Resident Evil 3 was significantly shorter, with a more focused narrative and fewer locations to explore. The pacing was faster, and while the action-heavy gameplay was exhilarating, some of the tension and slow-burn horror from the original felt toned down in favor of more gunplay and intense sequences. The game's battle against Nemesis was more action-oriented, with the creature actively pursuing Jill throughout the game, adding a constant sense of danger.
Although Resident Evil 3 (2020) was thrilling, it felt more like an action game with horror elements than a full-fledged survival horror experience. The absence of some key features from the original (like the beloved Mercenaries mode) left fans wanting more, and the game’s linearity made it feel less open-ended than Resident Evil 2’s remake.
⭐ 7.5/10 – A solid and visually impressive remake, but somewhat lacking in content and atmosphere compared to Resident Evil 2’s masterpiece.
Resident Evil: Resistance
Release Date: April 3, 2020
An Underwhelming Multiplayer Experience
Released alongside Resident Evil 3 on April 3, 2020, Resident Evil: Resistance is an asymmetrical multiplayer game set in the Resident Evil universe. Players take on the role of one of four survivors trapped in a series of experiments orchestrated by a Mastermind (controlled by another player), who uses traps, enemies, and environmental hazards to try to stop them from escaping. The goal for the survivors is to work together to solve puzzles and fight off hordes of zombies while trying to avoid the Mastermind’s manipulations.
While the concept was intriguing, Resident Evil: Resistance struggled to find its footing. The core mechanics were not as tight or engaging as those of other asymmetrical multiplayer games, and the game’s pace often felt sluggish. Survivor characters had unique abilities, but the gameplay quickly became repetitive, with the survivors often relying too much on basic combat and teamwork rather than strategic thinking. The Mastermind’s role, while potentially engaging, felt a bit overpowered and didn’t offer enough variety in the challenge.
Visually, Resistance was on par with Resident Evil 3's remake, but the gameplay and lack of a compelling narrative left it feeling like an afterthought. While it could provide fun moments with friends, it didn’t have the lasting appeal or depth to keep players invested long-term.
⭐ 5.5/10 – A decent concept, but the gameplay felt repetitive and underdeveloped, making it a forgettable multiplayer experience.
Resident Evil Village
Release Date: May 7, 2021
A Thrilling Evolution of Horror
Released on May 7, 2021, Resident Evil Village continued Ethan Winters’ journey after the events of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, combining the first-person survival horror elements of its predecessor with a more diverse, action-oriented approach. Set in a mysterious European village inhabited by monstrous creatures and eccentric villains, the game blends classic Resident Evil atmosphere with fresh, new twists.
The narrative is gripping, following Ethan as he searches for his kidnapped daughter in a chilling gothic setting, facing off against a cast of bizarre antagonists, including Lady Dimitrescu, a towering, vampiric figure who quickly became a fan favorite. The game’s setting transitions smoothly from eerie villages to creepy castles, and even an industrial factory, offering varied and dynamic environments that keep the player on edge.
Gameplay-wise, Village strikes a balance between survival horror and action, featuring intense combat, puzzles, and exploration, while still keeping the tension high with limited ammo and frequent encounters with terrifying enemies. The first-person perspective intensifies immersion, particularly in VR mode, and the improved combat mechanics add more fluidity compared to Resident Evil 7.
While some may have preferred more emphasis on horror over the action-focused sequences, Resident Evil Village succeeded in offering a thrilling, polished experience that respects the series’ legacy while moving it forward. It also introduced new gameplay elements, such as crafting and an open-world feel in certain sections, which contributed to a fresh experience without straying too far from what fans love.
⭐ 9/10 – A perfect mix of horror, action, and storytelling that pushes the series into new territory while respecting its roots.
Resident Evil Re:Verse
Release Date: October 27, 2022
A Disappointing Multiplayer Spin-off
Released on October 27, 2022, Resident Evil Re:Verse was an attempt by Capcom to create an online multiplayer experience for Resident Evil fans, but it ultimately fell short of expectations. The game offers a deathmatch-style format where players can control iconic Resident Evil characters (like Leon, Claire, Jill, and Nemesis) and battle each other across various environments from the series. What makes it unique is the ability to turn into a bioweapon (such as a zombie or Tyrant) after being killed, adding a chaotic twist to the gameplay.
While the premise was intriguing, the execution left much to be desired. The gameplay was clunky, with awkward controls and unbalanced mechanics that often made matches feel more frustrating than fun. The graphics were outdated, and the maps felt uninspired, lacking the detailed environments fans have come to expect from the main series. The overall game design also felt disconnected from the core Resident Evil experience, with little of the series' signature tension or atmosphere.
Re:Verse also launched with numerous technical issues, including matchmaking problems and lag, which hindered the overall enjoyment. The game’s repetitive nature, combined with its lack of meaningful progression or depth, made it feel like a missed opportunity for a more engaging multiplayer experience in the Resident Evil universe.
⭐ 4/10 – A chaotic, underwhelming multiplayer experience that fails to capture the spirit of Resident Evil and feels more like a rushed cash-in.
Resident Evil 4 (2023 Remake)
Release Date: March 24, 2023
A Masterpiece Reimagined for a New Generation
Released on March 24, 2023, Resident Evil 4 (2023 Remake) is a stunning reimagining of one of the most influential survival horror games of all time. The remake takes the iconic 2005 game and updates it with modern graphics, refined mechanics, and expanded content, all while retaining the essence of what made the original a classic.
The game follows Leon S. Kennedy as he embarks on a mission to rescue the U.S. president’s daughter, Ashley Graham, from a rural Spanish village overtaken by a mysterious cult. The intense action, atmospheric environments, and memorable characters are all present, but the updated visuals, powered by the RE Engine, bring Raccoon City’s surroundings to life in breathtaking detail. The environments are more immersive and expansive, with areas that are both haunting and beautiful, making the journey feel more alive and dangerous.
Gameplay-wise, the remake improves on the original’s mechanics with smoother, more dynamic combat and exploration. The over-the-shoulder camera and refined controls offer a more immersive experience, while adding new gameplay elements like a more fleshed-out inventory system and improved AI for enemies. While the game still focuses heavily on action, the horror elements remain intact, with moments of tension and terror throughout. The relationship between Leon and Ashley has also been reworked to make it more engaging, making Ashley a more active participant rather than a damsel in distress.
With exceptional voice acting, a gripping story, and a perfect balance between survival horror and action, Resident Evil 4 (2023) feels like a perfect example of how to modernize a beloved classic. It’s a game that both newcomers and veterans will appreciate, offering a fresh experience while honoring the original.
⭐ 10/10 – A breathtaking remake that redefines a classic for a new generation, combining modern gameplay with timeless horror.
Rumored Upcoming Releases: Resident Evil 9 & 5 Remake
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