The Best Resident Evil Game Ever: Ultimate Series Ranking
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So, you’ve come to find out what the best Resident Evil game is. The Resident Evil franchise has taken us on a terrifying journey for over two decades. Jump scares and ugly monsters define this series as much as the absolute dread you feel when playing and the struggle to survive.
I was overcome with the desire to revisit this iconic spree. I’ve played many of them and felt the first-degree burn of fear. Now, I’ve attempted to get down to the bottom of it and find out which ones deserve a shoutout.
If you’re here wondering which Resident Evil game is worth your time, you’re in the right spot. Do you like to be lost in plot sauce? Or maybe you like high-intensity horror and action? This is where you belong. I’ve ranked 12 must-play Resident Evil games for any newcomers, long-time fans, and everybody else in between.
And if you’re feeling inspired to jump in this series, I’ve included some great deals in this list for you. Let’s begin.
Best Resident Evil Games Ranked
Ranking the best Resident Evil games? Honestly, hard. Each game in the entire series has something that makes it memorable. Most games serve pure survival horror, a fun story, or flat-out horror thrills. Here are the TOP 5 contenders of this chilling series:
- Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023) – Best Overall.
- Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019) – Best Story.
- Resident Evil Remake (2002) – Best Classic Revival.
- Resident Evil 7 Biohazard (2017) – Best Immersive Horror.
- Resident Evil Village (2021) – Best Blend of Action and Horror.
But, hold up. There is a total of 12 games in this ranking. You’ll find the rest of the games below.
By the way, Remake titles are standalone games that you can play on their own. Also, here are some convenient tips for newbies – see in what order you should play the series and more.
What Makes a Resident Evil Game “The Best”
So, what makes a game secure top place? Honestly, ranking the entire series was no easy task, but I zeroed in on the key factors that separate the greatest from the rest. Here’s what it takes:
- Storyline & Character Development: The best ones get you caring about characters.
- Gameplay Elements & Innovation: When a game switches up the mechanics and delivers something new, it’s not just a change: it inspires an entire genre.
- Atmosphere & World Design: The vibe has to be solid. If it doesn’t make you feel real fear, what’s the point? Great survival horror games have to deliver tension, shadows, and chills.
- Scare Factor: Let’s face it, if you’re not jumping out of your skin, it doesn’t deserve to be the top pick.
- Reception: The community knows best. I’ve looked at what critics and players have to say.
These factors are what I believe make a game shine. After playing so many RE titles, it got easier to see the patterns and which entry aced which aspect.
12 Resident Evil Games Ranked: Best Ever Survival Horror Game
1. Resident Evil 4 Remake [Best Overall]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2023 |
| Campaign Type | Story-driven with side quests |
| Horror Style | Survival horror with action focus |
This game is at the top of my list for a reason. Resident Evil 4 Remake is an absolute masterpiece REMAKE that breathes new life into one of the most beloved entries in the Resident Evil series. Playing as Leon Kennedy in a creepy European village feels as thrilling as in 2005. The stunning modern visuals and fluid gameplay will keep you IN.
The revamped graphics and smooth controls bring a new dimension to the experience. The combat mechanics, the dread, Leon’s humor, and new side quests all hit differently here. The game boasts a 93 Metacritic score. It also has an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam. I think combat fans and newbies looking for a balanced game would dig it.
Get a cheap copy of Resident Evil 4 now >
2. Resident Evil 2 Remake [Best Story]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2019 |
| Campaign Type | Dual-character, story-driven campaign |
| Horror Style | Classic survival horror with modern enhancements |
How often does a game rebuild itself so perfectly that it feels both familiar and groundbreaking? That’s why Resident Evil 2 Remake deserves its spot. You play as Leon and Claire and visit the terrifying Racoon City. This environment feels alive, every hallway drips with tension. Leon and Claire’s intertwined stories seal the deal.
The rebuilt graphics make every detail pop: from the eerie lighting to the grotesque zombies. The third-person perspective modernizes the gameplay while staying true to its survival horror roots. And the atmosphere? Kills. I think narrative-driven gamers and puzzle fans will love this one.
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3. Resident Evil Remake
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2019 |
| Campaign Type | Dual-character, story-driven campaign |
| Horror Style | Classic survival horror with modern enhancements |
Let me just say that Resident Evil Remake is a wild ride. A perfect mashup of nostalgia and terror. This isn’t just a glow-up/remake of the 1996 classic; it’s a full-on reimagining that grabs you by the throat. Playing as Chris or Jill Valentine, you’re dropped into the Spencer Mansion on a rescue mission that spirals into pure nightmare fuel.
It’s a crash course in survival horror games with a story that keeps you hooked. Continuing your Resident Evil journey? The visuals and the expanded lore are must-sees. The fixed camera angles and polished design are the tribute OG fans have been waiting for. It’s no surprise that the game has been ported to over 7 different platforms and is often cited as one of the greatest video game remakes of all time.
4. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard [Best Immersive Horror]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2017 |
| Campaign Type | First-person, narrative-driven campaign |
| Horror Style | Psychological horror with intense atmosphere |
This is the game that brought the Resident Evil series back to its terrifying roots. It’s ranked high because of how brilliantly it nails the horror vibe. You play as Ethan Winters, looking for your wife in the Baker family’s creepy, rotting house. The first-person perspective makes it feel like you’re actually there. It’s intense.
This game scored an 86 on Metacritic for good reason. It’s a perfect entry point if you’re new to the series. The blend of resource management, atmospheric dread, and twisted storytelling makes it unforgettable. New players can jump right in, while old fans will love the nods to classic Resident Evil gameplay elements.
Grab a copy of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard now >
5. Resident Evil Village [Best Blend of Action and Horror]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2021 |
| Campaign Type | Story-driven with exploration elements |
| Horror Style | Gothic horror blended with action sequences |
Resident Evil Village is like walking into the most twisted fairytale ever. You’re Ethan Winters again, fresh off the chaos of RE7 Biohazard. Now, you’re trapped in this gothic nightmare of a village. It’s got everything: vampires, werewolves, creepy dolls and iconic villains. I encountered so many different enemies. The unpredictability really kept the tension and excitement UP.
The mix of exploration, shootouts, and insane boss fights kept me glued to my screen. The action is intense, the horror is real, and the gameplay elements are on point. RE Village has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and is one of the fastest-selling titles in the series. This one’s a must-have for fans of action-adventure with a twist.
Grab a copy of RE Village today >
6. Resident Evil HD Remaster [Another Great Classic Revival]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2015 |
| Campaign Type | Linear, classic survival campaign |
| Horror Style | Traditional survival horror with updated visuals |
Resident Evil HD Remaster is a great way to experience the game that started it all. It’s a remastered version of the legendary 2002 remake, so you’re getting killer modern visuals and smoother gameplay. You’re back in Spencer Mansion, where you’ll juggle puzzles, scarce ammo, and enemies. I’ll never forget when I tried sneaking past what I thought was a “dead” zombie, only for it to lunge at me the moment I turned my back.
It’s a refined survival horror experience that’s perfect for new players. The updated controls make it approachable, while the atmosphere keeps you on edge. Every choice matters while navigating pitch-black corridors or saving bullets for a last-ditch moment. If you’ve been curious about the genre’s roots, this is your golden ticket.
Get Resident Evil HD Remaster now >
7. Resident Evil 3 [Best for Pure Adrenaline Thrills]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
| Release year | 2020 |
| Campaign Type | Action-oriented, linear campaign |
| Horror Style | Fast-paced survival horror with chase elements |
Resident Evil 3 is like a rollercoaster through Raccoon City’s apocalypse. You’re Jill Valentine, dodging zombies, solving puzzles, and constantly being stalked by Nemesis. Your worst enemy in the form of a bioweapon. This guy isn’t just anxiety-inducing, he’s unpredictable. I still remember when he burst through a safe room door. I’ve never run faster in a game.
The pacing is relentless, keeping you on edge from start to finish. The enhanced visuals bring the city’s destruction to life, and the fast gameplay makes it a thrill ride for action lovers. It’s shorter but more action-packed than other RE titles. It has over 58,000 reviews on Steam (81% positive) and even got a PlayStation Game of the Year nomination.
Grab a copy of Resident Evil 3 for less >
8. Resident Evil 4 [Best for Game-Changing Action]
| Platforms ⭐ | Gamecube, PS2, PC, Xbox, Switch |
| Release year | 2005 |
| Campaign Type | Third-person, action-adventure campaign |
| Horror Style | Action horror with survival elements |
Resident Evil 4 is where it all clicked for me. You’re Leon Kennedy sent to a creepy village in Spain to rescue the President’s daughter, and everything goes off the rails. The villagers are nightmare fuel. The bosses are insane. It’s like the game doesn’t want you to breathe. Every corner, every encounter, it’s either fight or die.
This game introduced the iconic over-the-shoulder camera. The gunplay feels so smooth and upgrading your weapons is so fun. It’s old-school but feels legendary. Metacritic slapped it with a 93 and it’s sold over 13 million copies. With game-changing action for its time, this is the entry where Leon solidifies his place as one of the coolest leads in the series.
9. Resident Evil 5 [Best Co-Op Experience]
| Platforms ⭐ | PC,PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360 |
| Release year | 2009 |
| Campaign Type | Cooperative, action-focused campaign |
| Horror Style | Action-oriented with horror themes |
Resident Evil 5 is where action meets survival horror, and the co-op mode is a game-changer. You play as Chris Redfield teaming up with Sheva Alomar. Combat bioweapons in Africa with intense shootouts and clever puzzles. The visuals were groundbreaking for 2009 and still hold up. One mission had me yelling at my buddy to cover me while I fought off a mob. I’ve never had so much fun in co-op.
RE5 sold over 14 million copies and it’s not surprising. They nailed the action element with this entry and replayability always gels well with a lot of different types of gamers. The mix of intense combat, teamwork, and iconic enemies makes it a must-play.
Get the best deals on RE 5 now >
10. Resident Evil 0 [Best Prequel for Lore Lovers]
| Platforms ⭐ | Gamecube, PC, PS4, Xbox One |
| Release year | 2002 |
| Campaign Type | Dual-character, puzzle-centric campaign |
| Horror Style | Traditional survival horror with character switching |
This one’s a gem for anyone who loves unraveling the origins of chaos. In Resident Evil Zero, you’re Rebecca Chambers, partnered with ex-convict Billy Coen. Together, you face hordes of twisted creatures while uncovering Umbrella’s dirty secrets. The character-switching mechanic is fun and brilliant. I loved solving puzzles by swapping between the two.
It’s perfect for lore enthusiasts. The visuals are solid for its time, and the gameplay isn’t bad for a 2002 release. Even after all these years, it’s still pulling in players with an all-time Steam peak of over 3,100.Try this one out if you want to dive deeper in the RE universe. Puzzles fans and those who like a retro feel are also in for a treat.
Check out this offer for Resident Evil 0 >
11. Resident Evil: Revelations [Best Episodic Mystery]
| Platforms ⭐ | 3DS, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch |
| Release year | 2012 |
| Campaign Type | Episodic, story-driven campaign |
| Horror Style | Survival horror with action elements |
Resident Evil Revelations is a wild ride aboard the haunted Queen Zenobia (ship) with Jill Valentine. The episode format feels like bingeing a thriller series. Exploring the ship’s creepy corridors, solving puzzles, and uncovering its dark secrets reminded me why this game stands out in the series: it scares you but it keeps you curious enough to keep going.
Raid Mode is pure adrenaline. It’s fast-paced, action-packed, and lets you replay missions without the story bogging you down. The Ghost Ship setting in this one is also something else. It definitely elevates the atmosphere and setting for a scare. Fans love its mix of survival horror roots with modern gameplay mechanics. Jill Valentine fans, don’t sleep on this one.
Get yourself a copy of RE: Revelations >
12. Resident Evil Code: Veronica [Best Forgotten Gem]
| Platforms ⭐ | Dreamcast, PS2, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Release year | 2002 |
| Campaign Type | Extended, narrative-rich campaign |
| Horror Style | Classic survival horror with expanded lore |
Resident Evil Code: Veronica deserves way more love than it gets. Playing as Claire Redfield, you’re on a mission to find your brother Chris. Instead, you’re stuck battling insane bioweapons in eerie 3D environments that feel ahead of their time (Released in 2000!). Jill takes on prison islands and Antarctic labs while uncovering Umbrella’s darkest secrets. It ties directly into RE2 and Nemesis, so the lore here is gold.
This game ditches pre-rendered backgrounds for full 3D. It was groundbreaking back on the Dreamcast. It’s not easy to play on modern platforms unless you grab the HD version on PS3 or Xbox 360, but rumor has it a remake might be in the works. The graphics were jaw-dropping for the time, and the tension was unmatched. This game is an underrated gem that every fan of classic games needs to play.
Get Resident Evil Code: Veronica on Steam with a gift card >
What Makes a Resident Evil Game “The Best”?
So, what makes a game secure top place? Honestly, ranking the entire series was no easy task, but I zeroed in on the key factors that separate the greatest from the rest. Here’s what it takes:
- Storyline & Character Development: The best ones get you caring about characters.
- Gameplay Elements & Innovation: When a game switches up the mechanics and delivers something new, it’s not just a change: it inspires an entire genre.
- Atmosphere & World Design: The vibe has to be solid. If it doesn’t make you feel real fear, what’s the point? Great survival horror games have to deliver tension, shadows, and chills.
- Scare Factor: Let’s face it, if you’re not jumping out of your skin, it doesn’t deserve to be the top pick.
- Reception: The community knows best. I’ve looked at what critics and players have to say.
These factors are what I believe make a game shine. After playing so many RE titles, it got easier to see the patterns and which entry aced which aspect.
Resident Evil Timeline and Chronology
Playing through the Resident Evil series chronologically is like walking headfirst into a bioweapon-fueled fever dream, and I mean that in the best way. The story’s a wild ride, packed with conspiracies and survival horror that evolves with each title. If you really want to see how the nightmare unfolds, start where it all began and work your way through the madness.
Here’s the full Resident Evil timeline, in story order:
- Resident Evil 0 – It all starts here. A prequel that sets the virus in motion.
- Resident Evil (Remake or Original) – Enter the infamous Spencer Mansion.
- Resident Evil 2 – Raccoon City descends into pure chaos.
- Resident Evil 3: Nemesis – Jill’s desperate escape overlaps with RE2.
- Resident Evil Code: Veronica – The virus spreads beyond Raccoon City.
- Resident Evil 4 – Leon’s mission introduces a new kind of horror.
- Resident Evil Revelations – A side story deepening the bioterror web.
- Resident Evil 5 – Bioterrorism goes global.
- Resident Evil Revelations 2 – More experimentation, more horrors.
- Resident Evil 6 – The chaos hits worldwide scale.
- Resident Evil 7: Biohazard – A terrifying reset with a new protagonist.
- Resident Evil Village – Continues Ethan’s journey, ties deeper lore.
Tips for New Players:
- Want the classic vibe? Start with RE2 Remake. It’s got a modern feel, old-school tension.
- Prefer story flow? Use the list above to follow the chronological timeline.
- Interested in seeing the franchise evolve? Go by release order instead.
Standalone Entries:
- RE7 and Village can be played solo.
- RE4 is its own beast. You can play it anytime.
- Revelations games work as self-contained stories.
It’s a puzzle of madness, but once it clicks, the whole series hits differently.
FAQs
Do I need to play Resident Evil games in order?
No. Playing in order will definitely help with grasping that big picture but each game is enough for you to play on its own.
What’s the best Resident Evil game for beginners?
Resident Evil 2 Remake is ideal for newcomers. It balances tense horror with smooth gameplay and gives you a solid intro to the series without overwhelming you from the start.
Are Resident Evil games scary?
Definitely. Between jump scares, disturbing creatures, and psychological tension, Resident Evil gets you scared, especially if you play with headphones in a dark room.
