The Resident Evil franchise has been a cornerstone of survival horror for decades, spanning multiple generations of consoles, PC, and now even cloud streaming. With frequent sales across digital storefronts, it’s tempting to fill your cart with the entire series in one go. But is that really the best move? Buying all the Resident Evil games on sale can be a fantastic way to experience one of gaming’s most influential sagas, but it’s not without its caveats. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before pulling the trigger on that massive bundle.
From the fixed-camera terror of the original 1996 classic to the adrenaline-fueled action of Resident Evil Village, the series has reinvented itself multiple times. That variety is a strength, but it also means not every game will click with every player. A deep discount can mask that, leaving you with a library of titles you might never launch. Let’s break down the key factors so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding the Resident Evil Series
Before deciding whether to buy the whole series, it helps to know what you’re getting into. The mainline Resident Evil games can be divided into distinct eras, each with a different gameplay focus. The early titles (Resident Evil, 2, 3, Code: Veronica) emphasized slow, methodical exploration, puzzle solving, and resource management with tank controls and pre-rendered backgrounds. These were later reimagined with modern over-the-shoulder gameplay in the acclaimed remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3, and the upcoming Resident Evil 4 remake.
The middle era (Resident Evil 4, 5, 6, Revelations) shifted toward action, with more emphasis on combat and set pieces. Resident Evil 4 is often hailed as a masterpiece, while 6 is more divisive. Then came a return to roots with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and Village, blending first-person horror with the series’ classic atmosphere. Spin-offs like Outbreak, Chronicles, and Resistance add even more variety but aren’t essential to the core narrative.
The Remakes vs. Originals
A crucial question is whether you should play the original versions or the remakes. The remakes of 2, 3, and 4 modernize the controls, graphics, and in some cases story, making them more accessible. The original Resident Evil got a full remake in 2002 that remains a gold standard for survival horror. If you value historical context and classic design, the originals have merit, but for most newcomers, the remakes are the way to go. Purchasing all games on sale might mean getting both, which is great for collectors, but if you’re looking for a streamlined experience, focus on the definitive versions.
The Appeal of Buying the Complete Collection
There’s a strong argument for snatching up the whole franchise when prices drop. For one, it offers exceptional value. You can often get bundles like the Resident Evil Origins Collection (0 and 1), the 2 and 3 remake bundle, or the Gold Editions with all DLC. During seasonal sales, the entire mainline series can be had for the price of a single new release. That’s a lot of horror for your dollar.
Another benefit is narrative continuity. While each game tells a self-contained story, there’s an overarching plot involving Umbrella Corporation, bioweapons, and recurring characters like Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and Leon Kennedy. Playing them in order (or a recommended order) lets you appreciate character arcs and lore deep cuts that you’d miss by jumping around. Plus, having the whole library means you can switch between eras depending on your mood.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Despite the appeal, buying everything at once has its downsides. The biggest risk is burnout. The series has over a dozen main entries, and playing them back-to-back can lead to franchise fatigue. The older titles’ tank controls and fixed cameras are an acquired taste, and even fans argue about the action-heavy direction of RE5 and RE6. If you’re new to the series, you might find some entries frustrating or uninteresting, which can sour the overall experience.
Then there’s the practical side. Gaming backlogs are real. A deep discount doesn’t save you money if you never play the games. And while sales are frequent, they’ll come around again. Unless you’re a die-hard fan or collector, you might be better off cherry-picking the highlights and waiting for deeper discounts on the rest.
How to Prioritize Your Purchases
If you’re on the fence, a targeted approach might serve you better than buying the whole series in one go. Start with the most critically acclaimed entries that define the franchise. A common recommendation is the modern trilogy: the remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3, and the original Resident Evil 4 (or its remake if you prefer the modern style). Add Resident Evil 7 and Village for the first-person horror experience, and the remake of the first game for the classic foundation. That gives you a broad taste without overwhelming you.
Where the Bundles Fit In
Capcom frequently offers bundles that make purchasing groups of games cheaper. The Raccoon City Bundle includes the remakes of 2 and 3. The Resident Evil 7/ Village bundle covers the modern first-person entries. If you’re committed to the full timeline, the Resident Evil Deluxe Editions often include all DLC and are discounted heavily. Check whether these bundles overlap with what you need to avoid double-dipping.
Maximizing Your Savings During Sales
To get the most out of a sale, don’t just look at the sticker price. Track historical lows using price-history websites or wishlist notifications. Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Nintendo eShop all have regular Capcom publisher sales. The best times are typically summer sales, Black Friday, and Halloween events. If you’re a PC gamer, third-party key stores sometimes offer even deeper cuts, but stick to authorized resellers to avoid risks.
Consider the platform, too. PC versions often have mod support and graphical enhancements, while consoles offer couch co-op on titles like RE5 and RE6. Cloud versions on Switch are playable but require a strong internet connection. You might end up buying on two platforms if you’re a collector, but for practical play, pick your primary gaming environment and commit to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best order to play the Resident Evil games?
There’s no single answer, but a popular order is: Resident Evil 1 remake, then the remakes of 2 and 3, followed by Resident Evil 4 (original or remake), Resident Evil 7, and Village. This pathway covers the core lore and showcases the series’ evolution. If you want chronological story order, start with Resident Evil 0 and 1, but be aware that 0 can be challenging for newcomers.
Are the older Resident Evil games still worth playing?
Yes, for fans of classic survival horror. The fixed-camera angles and tank controls create a unique sense of dread that modern games can’t replicate. The 2002 remake of the first game is a masterpiece, and the original RE2 and RE3 are still engaging if you can tolerate the dated mechanics. However, if you’re sensitive to older graphics and clunky controls, the remakes are a better entry point.
Are there any bundles that include all Resident Evil games?
No single bundle contains every game due to licensing and platform differences, but you can get close. The Resident Evil Deluxe Editions and collections like the Origins Collection (0+1), Raccoon City Bundle (2+3 remakes), and the Resident Evil 7/Village pack cover major chunks. During sales, you can buy these bundles alongside standalone entries to assemble the full series at a fraction of the cost.
How often do Resident Evil games go on sale?
Very often. Capcom participates in most platform-wide sales, plus frequent publisher-specific promotions. You can expect discounts every couple of months, with the steepest cuts (often 60-85% off) around Halloween, Black Friday, and the holiday season. Older titles drop to under $5 regularly.
Should I play the remakes or originals?
For most players, the remakes are the superior experience. They feature updated controls, improved visuals, and reimagined gameplay that respects the originals while feeling modern. The exception is if you’re a purist who wants to see how the series started. In that case, the originals are worth a look, but you might find them frustrating without a nostalgia filter.
Is the story connected between all Resident Evil games?
Yes, but loosely. There’s an overarching narrative about bioterrorism, the Umbrella Corporation, and recurring heroes and villains. However, each main game works as a standalone story, and you can enjoy them without knowing the entire timeline. Spin-offs and CG films fill in gaps but aren’t required viewing.
Can I skip any games in the series?
It depends on your goals. If you want just the highlights, play the remakes and the modern titles. Resident Evil 0, Code: Veronica, and Revelations 1/2 are optional but add context. Resident Evil 6 is the most controversial; many skip it or treat it as a co-op action game. The spin-offs (Outbreak, Operation Raccoon City) are entirely non-essential.
Ultimately, buying all the Resident Evil games on sale comes down to your appetite for horror and your tolerance for varied game design. If you’re a fan of the genre, the series offers unprecedented depth and value when purchased at a discount. But if you’re just curious, start small and let your interest guide you deeper into the hive. Capcom’s sales will almost certainly still be there when you’re ready for more.
