Resident Evil is one of the earliest Zombie Shooter franchise – the first game was released in 1996. Since then, twenty years have passed and Resident Evil still managed to retain interests despite the everchanging video game market. The franchise still continues to surprise its fans these days, as the reception of recent releases such as Resident Evil 2 Remake and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard suggest.
There has been so much improvement over the years, however, the main theme of the story hasn’t changed a bit. It is mainly about the protagonist’s struggle against an evil organization named “the Umbrella Corporation”. Aside from shooting zombies, the game also has quite a few intricate puzzles to spice it up – it has mechanics that every player could enjoy. This article will list out the top 10 best Resident Evil Games - and we hope that through this list, you could find out why this franchise has stood the test of time.
10 - Resident Evil: Revelations 2
Ranked number 10 on this list, however, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is not the worst game in the franchise – as they have definitely released more than 20 Resident Evil Games. Revelations 2 is not as good as the first game gameplay-wise, but the exciting story saved the game.
Being one of the newer entries, Revelations 2 looks great. However, just a good looking coat of paint cannot place the game anywhere higher on the list. Play Resident Evil: Revelations 2 if you are looking for a zombie shooter with a good story, but don’t expect much from it.
9 - Resident Evil 6
Incorporating four storylines instead of one in a single game might seem like good game design in theory, but it is way different in execution. With the budget and story contents divided by four, each storyline gets fewer contents and they all failed to retain the audience’s interests. There are so much more that can be done with Resident Evil 6, however, the possibilities were scrapped.
Despite all of that, Resident Evil 6 isn’t a failed release, and with the return of fan-favorite Leon S.Kennedy and Chris Redfield, a lot of people would enjoy the game. If there is something that they should have done to improve the game, toning down the action sequences should be the first on the list. Overall, Resident Evil 6 was dragged down by its story – the reason why it is placed ninth on the list
8 - Resident Evil: Revelations
The first Resident Evil Revelations is the better game out that its sequel – with some dark moments from the previous series revisited. That alone makes Revelations worth playing – as the atmosphere it created is just like in the older games – when you are pretty much the only person who survives in the whole world. The setting in which Revelations take place is between the fourth game and the fifth, with you trying to save the ocean from getting contaminated by a virus. The gameplay of revelations is just a variation of an already perfected formula of the franchise: puzzle and zombie shooting. The second game can be skipped, but not this one.
7 - Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
A few weaknesses in story writing has held Resident Evil 7 back from reaching its rightful place. However, the other qualities Resident Evil 7 has more than made up for its weaknesses, carrying the game to the seventh place of this list. The game has an interesting premise that was bogged down during gameplay, however, it regains momentum later near the end.
RE 7’s boss battles are pretty challenging, for both newcomers and old-timers alike. That’s actually a good thing since it actually feels satisfying when you finally take them down. RE 7 took a new direction away from the series’s usual style, and that actually feels fresh.
6 - Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
With the gameplay system taken from the previous game, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis is one of the most famous Resident Evil titles. The game was blessed with such quality that even by today’s standard, it’s still fun to play. As the remade of the previous game, Resident Evil 2, has gained critical acclamation from gamers all over the world, maybe it is time for Nemesis to get a remake.
The reason behind its success is the story – in RE 3, the player gets to fill in the shoes of Jill Valentine. As events in the game happen during the timeline of Resident Evil 2, a new perspective about the Racoon City events is depicted.
5 - Resident Evil HD (Remaster)
In most media, from movies to video games, the originals of a series are often considered the best. The HD remake of the original Resident Evil, however, is far from being the strongest installment of the series.
We can cut them some slack since the HD remake of RE 1 was released when remaking games were less popular. Aside from the monstrously long load time, the HD remake of RE 1 is generally considered a good game at the time it was released. Coupled with the return of iconic leads like Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, Resident Evil HD remaster definitely deserve the position five on this list.
4 - Resident Evil 5
An excellent coop experience, Resident Evil 5 is a new twist to the usual RE formula, as you and your buddy controlling Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar to mow down the waves of enemies. And if there is no friend available for playing, the online coop system would be your savior. However, if the coop is not your thing, RE 5 wouldn’t be as good – as the outdated AI would not be of much help. Switching between Chris and Sheva would be really tedious and repetitive.
The story in RE 5 is revolving about the players’ trip to a fictional African country – in which they have to deal with a zombie outbreak instigated by a terrorist organization. Overall, Resident Evil 5 is definitely one of the best game in the franchise.
3 - Resident Evil 2 (Original)
The most beloved entry in the series – long-time fans would definitely be glad to come back and finish this game once again. The same thing cannot be said about newcomers, however, as they might not be able to deal with the dated graphics that plagued the game when it was released. It could be said that the original story of Resident Evil 2 consists of 50% loading screens. It was a good story, but it could be better.
For people who are looking for a retro Resident Evil experience, the second game is probably not something that they should miss. The stories of Claire and Leon is some of the most iconic in gaming – an unforgettable experience for everyone who has finished Resident Evil 2.
2 - Resident Evil 2 (Remake)
The remake of Resident Evil 2 was released earlier in this year – and it has been a resounding success. Video game developers will be looking at Resident Evil 2 Remakes in the future – as it is a great example of how to bring a classic to the modern standard.
In the development of RE2 remake, all previous improvements from other installments of the Resident Evil franchise were combined into one – fused into Resident Evil 2’s classic story and location. The godlike combination has resulted in an unforgettable experience, for old-timers and newbies alike. It is recommended that you play as both Leon and Claire to experience everything that RE 2 has to offer.
1 - Resident Evil 4
Once in awhile, the stars align – all the aspects line up and combine into a perfect game - and Resident Evil 4 is considered one of that. Received critical acclaim – RE 4 is widely considered to be one of the best games ever created. There are hardly anything that could be criticized in this game – it has an amazing story, well-written characters, fun gameplay… Fun fact: Resident Evil 4 is one of the most ported video game in history – it reaches everywhere, from the Nintendo GameCube to the PlayStation 4.
The main story of Resident Evil 4 is revolving about Leon S.Kennedy, a special agent who’s tasked with a mission to protect the President’s daughter, Ashley Graham. Being a continuation of Ada Wong and Leon Kennedy’s story, Resident Evil 4 is the unmissable game for any Resident Evil fans or any gamers who are interested in the third person shooter horror genres.
RE 4 also has great replayability value - as a lot of contents were unlocked after your first playthrough of the game. From harmless fun gimmick like the rocket launcher to a whole expansion like "Assignment Ada" (which let you play as Ada Wong in her own story), you would definitely get your money's worth playing Resident Evil 4.
If you are interested in more Top 10 list, check this out: Final Fantasy Franchise - All 15 Games Ranked From Worst To Best
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