Navigating the sprawling Resident Evil series can feel like wandering through a zombie-infested mansion, especially with so many mainline entries and re-releases. Where do the divisive action-heavy sequels fit in? Are the recent horror revivals worth your time? And what about the classic originals? This guide breaks down exactly which Resident Evil games deserve a spot in your library and which ones you might skip, covering Resident Evil 5, 6, 7, 8, 0, and the revered GameCube ports.
Whether you are a veteran survivor or a newcomer curious about the series, the question of what to play next is a common one. Let’s cut through the noise and look at each game’s strengths, weaknesses, and ideal audience so you can make an informed decision.
Resident Evil 5 and 6: Action-Focused Co-op or Skippable Entries?
These two entries took the series in a heavily action-oriented direction, polarizing longtime fans but winning over a new audience. The short answer: Resident Evil 5 is worth it for co-op enthusiasts, while Resident Evil 6 is generally skippable unless you crave over-the-top action.
Resident Evil 5 shifts the setting to Africa and pairs Chris Redfield with Sheva Alomar. The game fully embraces cooperative play, and it shines when played with a friend. The inventory management, satisfying gunplay, and cinematic boss battles make it a fun ride. However, the single-player experience can be frustrating due to AI partner issues, and the horror elements are largely absent. If you enjoy tight, co-op third-person shooters with a Resident Evil skin, RE5 is worth grabbing on sale. It also bridges story elements that lead into later games.
Resident Evil 6 goes even further into Michael Bay territory. It features four lengthy campaigns with different characters, but the quality is wildly inconsistent. Leon’s campaign attempts horror but falls flat, Chris’s is a military shooter, and Jake’s adds melee-focused encounters. The sheer volume of content might seem appealing, but the frequent quick-time events, convoluted plot, and departure from survival horror left many disappointed. Play it only if you are a completionist or have a dedicated co-op partner and low expectations. For most players, watching a story summary is a better use of time.
Resident Evil 7 and 8: The Return to Survival Horror
After the backlash to RE6, Capcom course-corrected brilliantly. Resident Evil 7 is an absolute must-play, and Resident Evil 8 is a strong follow-up that expands the horror in exciting ways.
Resident Evil 7 brought the series back to its roots with a first-person perspective, a claustrophobic Louisiana bayou setting, and a focus on genuine dread. Protagonist Ethan Winters searches for his missing wife in the Baker family estate, and the result is one of the most terrifying games in recent memory. The tension is relentless, the puzzles are satisfying, and the shift to first-person immerses you completely. It is a shorter, tighter experience that reinvigorated the franchise. Whether you play in standard or VR mode, RE7 is an essential entry.
Resident Evil 8, or Village, picks up a few years later and blends the horror of RE7 with more action and exploration. Think of it as a modern-day Resident Evil 4, with a memorable cast of villains, a sprawling village hub, and varied locations from a gothic castle to a doll-infested house. The game introduces a merchant, treasure hunting, and weapon upgrades, adding depth. While some sections lean more into action than pure horror, the overall package is incredibly polished and satisfying. It is a direct sequel to RE7, so play that first, but Village is easily one of the best in the series.
Resident Evil 0: A Classic Prequel Worth the Challenge
Resident Evil 0 is a fascinating, often overlooked prequel that uses the classic fixed-camera angles and tank controls of the original games. It is worth playing for hardcore fans of old-school survival horror, but newcomers may find it punishing.
The game follows Rebecca Chambers and convict Billy Coen through a train and various Umbrella facilities just before the events of the first Resident Evil. Its unique hook is the partner zapping system, where you control both characters independently to solve puzzles and manage resources without item boxes, instead dropping and swapping items on the fly. This mechanic forces careful planning and can be either refreshing or maddening depending on your patience. The visuals still hold up well, and the atmosphere is top-notch. If you have played RE1 Remake and crave more of that style, RE0 is a solid experience, especially via the HD remaster. Modern players who dislike fixed cameras and limited saves should approach with caution.
GameCube Ports: The Definitive Classic Experience
When Capcom brought Resident Evil 1, 2, and 3 to the GameCube, they delivered some of the best versions of these classics. For purists and retro enthusiasts, the GameCube ports are definitely worth playing, though modern alternatives exist.
Resident Evil 1 benefited most dramatically, receiving a full remake (often called REmake) that is widely considered a masterpiece. With pre-rendered backgrounds, terrifying Crimson Heads, and new defensive items, it surpasses the original in every way. The GameCube version remains the purest way to experience it, though the HD remaster on modern platforms is essentially identical and more accessible. Resident Evil 2 and 3 on GameCube are direct ports of the PlayStation originals with minimal enhancements, such as slightly faster loading. They retain the tank controls, low-poly visuals, and iconic scares. These ports are fantastic if you have a GameCube and want the authentic retro feel, but note that the recent remakes of RE2 and RE3 have completely reimagined them in third-person over-the-shoulder style. If you want the original experiences, the GameCube discs are cherished collectibles, but digital versions on PSN for PS3/Vita might be cheaper options. That said, the GameCube controller and crisp output over component cables make these versions a joy for dedicated fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Resident Evil 5 worth playing solo?
It is playable solo, but the AI partner can be a liability on higher difficulties. The experience improves dramatically with a human co-op buddy. If you must play alone, consider setting the AI to follow/cover mode to minimize frustration.
Do I need to play Resident Evil 7 before Resident Evil 8?
Yes, strongly recommended. Resident Evil 8 is a direct sequel that follows Ethan Winters’ story and references events from RE7 extensively. Playing RE7 first provides crucial context and emotional weight to Village’s plot.
Are the recent remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3 better than the GameCube originals?
That depends on your preference. The remakes offer modern over-the-shoulder gameplay, stunning graphics, and reimagined stories. The originals have fixed cameras, slower pacing, and a nostalgic charm. Both versions are excellent, but the remakes are more accessible for today’s audiences while still being scary. The originals are best for historical curiosity or if you prefer the older style.
Is Resident Evil 6 really that bad?
It’s not an unplayable mess, but it suffers from an identity crisis. The horror is minimal, the story is bloated, and the design feels unfocused. However, some players enjoy the sheer spectacle and co-op chaos. If you go in expecting a dumb action movie game, you might have fun. Most fans consider it the weakest mainline entry.
Can I start the series with Resident Evil 7?
Absolutely. RE7 tells a largely self-contained story with new characters, making it a perfect entry point for newcomers. You will miss some small callbacks, but nothing that ruins the experience. It is also a great place to begin before tackling the remakes of 2, 3, and 4.
Is Resident Evil 0 canon, and should I play it before RE1?
Yes, it is canon and takes place slightly before RE1. However, it spoils some plot points of RE1, so it is best played after you have completed the first game or its remake. Playing it in release order is advisable for story purposes.
The Resident Evil franchise is vast, but there is no wrong door to walk through. Whether you gravitate toward the tense, methodical horror of the classics or the high-octane co-op of the later titles, each game offers a unique flavor. Use this guide to choose your next nightmare, and enjoy the ride.
