The Best Resident Evil Game Ever: Ultimate Series Ranking
So, you’ve come to find out what the best Resident Evil game is. The Resident Evil franchise (hands down one of the best horror series in gaming) 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.
Best 12 Survival Horror Games: Resident Evil Edition
1. Resident Evil 4 Remake (Best Overall)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9.7/10 | 2023 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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.
2. Resident Evil 2 Remake (Best Story)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9.5/10 | 2019 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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.
Get the best deal on Resident Evil 2 Remake >
3. Resident Evil 2002 (Best Classic Revival)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9.4/10 | 2002 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
Let me just say that Resident Evil (2002) 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 (insanely good for 2002) 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)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9.3/10 | 2017 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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.
5. Resident Evil Village (Best Blend of Action and Horror)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9.1/10 | 2021 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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. 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)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 9/10 | 2015 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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.
7. Resident Evil 3 (Best for Pure Adrenaline Thrills)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.8/10 | 2020 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X |
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 RE3 for less now >
8. Resident Evil 4 (Best for Game-Changing Action)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.7/10 | 2005 | Gamecube, PS2, PC, Xbox |
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)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.5/10/10 | 2009 | PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360 |
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 RE5 now >
10. Resident Evil 0 (Best Prequel for Lore Lovers)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.4/10 | 2002 | Gamecube, PC, PS4, Xbox One |
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.
11. Resident Evil Revelations (Best Episodic Mystery)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.3/10 | 2012 | 3DS, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, PC |
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.
12. Resident Evil Code: Veronica (Best Forgotten Gem)
| Our Score: | Release year: | Platforms: |
| ⭐ 8.2/10 | 2012 | 3DS, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, PC |
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.
Brief History of the Resident Evil Series
Resident Evil or Biohazard if you’re in Japan, first clawed its way into our lives back in 1996. I gotta tell you that it changed everything. The first game was blocky as hell—seriously, it looked like Minecraft’s great-grandfather if we’re talking visuals.
90s game visuals aside, it was the FIRST true horror RPG that nailed survival. It served tight corridors, puzzles that made you sweat, and consistently limited ammo. It layered action with pure psychological thrill and challenge. Every corner felt like a gamble, where a single wrong move could spell doom. The tension was so thick it left a lasting impression on everyone who dared to play.
Then came the insane remake of the first 1996 game in the 2000s. The 2002 Resident Evil Remake was so wild because Capcom leaped forward so much in only a few years. The visuals went from zero to a hundred, and the gameplay had a serious makeover as well. It set the bar for what a remake SHOULD be. You could play that 2002 remake now and you’d think the game was made in 2015 or something.
Capcom proved that remakes could be more than nostalgia. They could be revolutionary. They nailed that slow-burn horror. I don’t think any of us were ready for just how much it would go on to define survival horror as we know it. The thing about Resident Evil? It’s always been about evolution. Capcom keeps switching it up and somehow it just never gets old.
Resident Evil Timeline and Chronology
My journey through playing the Resident evil series has been a crazy ride. It is definitely a twisted maze with a lot of complex plot and constant bioweapon conspiracies that kept me wrecked. If you really want to get the feel for the best RE games, you gotta know where it started and how it evolved.
- Spencer Mansion: The nightmare kicks off in Resident Evil 0 and flows right into a creepy mansion from the first game.
- Raccoon City Chronicles: Things go totally off the rails in RE2 and Nemesis. It’s absolute chaos and I loved every stressful minute of it.
- Worldwide Chaos: By RE5 and RE6, it’s not just Raccoon City anymore. Bioterrorism is going global and everything’s exploding.
- The Ethan Winters Story: Then we get to RE7 and Village. These entries are all about surviving the nightmare. It takes us right back to the horror roots with super personal stories where you just feel like you’re trying to stay alive in the middle of a twisted mess.
Each entry adds depth IMO. Once you see the pinnacle of events unfold, it’s as if you’re watching a huge puzzle finally click together. The timeline is layered chaos. Every game builds on previous ones, leaving clues that make replaying the earlier titles even more rewarding.
It’s wild how the franchise manages to stay connected while constantly evolving its style and narrative twists.
Evolution of Gameplay Mechanics
Capcom had their game on and really tried to mix things up in the hopes of the series not getting stale. I can say they did it with finesse (for the most part). So, how did they do it? What changed over time? Let’s break down how the gameplay elements evolved.
- Fixed Camera Angles: Back in the early days, that limited view was pure nightmare fuel. Seriously, arguably one of the scariest things ever. Not being able to see what’s around the corner was brutal.
- Over-the-Shoulder Combat: Then RE4 comes along and flips the script. The combat mechanics got real, definitely more intense. It made every fight feel super personal.
- First-Person Panic: Fast forward to RE7 and suddenly you’re right there, front and center. Full first-person survival horror experience.
- Multiple Characters and Perspectives: Swapping between multiple characters was always such a thrill. One second you’re Jill, then boom..you’re Chris. Switching from Leon to Claire was also super satisfying.
- Puzzles That Matter: The puzzles evolved too. They weren’t just fetch quests anymore. They became legit brain-teasers.
Capcom’s constant tweaking kept me INVESTED. Plenty of games out there could learn a thing or two from how Resident Evil does it. Every new entry felt like a leap forward, each innovation layering more depth while keeping the tension real. They never let things stagnate, always upping the stakes.
The series kept the perfect balance of old-school charm and modern innovation, which is why it still reigns as survival horror royalty.
Horror Elements and Atmosphere
I’ve come to realize one thing: Capcom ain’t playing. They bring the vibe to the function and are masters of atmosphere. Through many entries, they have successfully served me a creeping sense of dread even after I’ve turned my console off. What do they bring to the table for each game? Why so scary?
- Cinematic Atmosphere: The cinematic approach can definitely be felt in many games, especially newer entries. The hallways are dark. Doors creak. A breath of silence or a lurking shadow means your next jumpscare.
- Sound Design: You know you’re about to be shot by a healthy dose of fear when the music drops and all you hear are your footsteps. Capcom has successfully pioneered the art of sound design in the series.
- Balanced Action and Horror: Sure, some RE titles have a heavier action vibe, but even those entries have deep horror roots. The studio still succeeded in balancing high-intensity shootouts and horror mania.
- Pacing: What makes the franchise so ranked in our hearts is the mix of slow-burn and pure chaos. Experiencing the tension of walking in a dark and empty corridor and also experiencing what it’s like to escape a chainsaw maniac is peak horror gaming.
The mix of classic survival horror elements with modern twists is what makes this franchise consistently spine-chilling. Every detail feels calculated to mess with your nerves. Horror is all about dread and being immersed in that dark feeling. I think they got the assignment right.
Upcoming Resident Evil Titles and Rumors
Alright, my fellow Resident Evil fans and newbies. I’ve got the freshest rumors and confirmed news. Let’s see what Capcom’s cooking up because I’m hyped and you should be too:
- Resident Evil 9: You heard it here, Capcom has confirmed this beast is coming. The word is Resident Evil 7 director Koshi Nakanishi is back at it. Rumor has it that we’re talking about an open-world vibe on a creepy Southeast Asian island. Expect this around late 2025 or early 2026.
- Resident Evil 1 Remake: There’s a whisper going around about a Resident Evil 1 remake dropping in 2026, just in time for the franchise’s 30th anniversary. Picture it with a third-person perspective, more lore on the Spencer Mansion.
- Code Veronica Remake: This one’s for the die-hards. There’s been chatter for ages, and it looks like Capcom might finally deliver the Code Veronica remake we’ve been begging for. They know we want it, so fingers crossed that this actually happens.
- Resident Evil 0 Remaster: Capcom’s also looking to polish Resident Evil 0 for an HD remaster. They wanna bring that prequel flair up to par with today’s visuals. Can’t say I’m mad about that.
Can’t wait to see how deep this rabbit hole goes. Stay hyped.
Tips for New Players
You’ve decided to dive into the RE franchise. Well, my first tip is try playing it in the daytime first. If you’re absolutely bonkers, play at night. What do you need to know when playing one of the best game franchises in survival horror?
Where to Start: Resident Evil 2 Remake is a pretty good place to start. You can enjoy modern game design and old-school survival elements at the same time.
Play Order:
You’ve got two options:
- Chronological: You can start with RE0 if you want to piece together the entire story and if you want to know how the virus spread.
- Release Order: You can start with the oldest and classic games to the newest releases. If you truly want to see how the games have evolved, this could be a good way to play.
Standalone Games:
- Resident Evil 7 – New protagonist, fresh story.
- Resident Evil Village – Continues Ethan’s story but can be played on its own.
- Resident Evil 4 – Unique storyline. Hi Leon.
- Revelations Series – Self-contained side stories.
Play Order (Chronological):
- Resident Evil 0
- Resident Evil (Remake or Original)
- Resident Evil 2
- Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
- Code Veronica
- Resident Evil 4
- Revelations
- Resident Evil 5
- Revelations 2
- Resident Evil 6
- Resident Evil 7
- Village
Let’s Wrap It Up
Resident Evil has been an absolute ride. Credits to the gut-wrenching tension of Resident Evil 7, the game-changing action in Resident Evil 4, and the underrated brilliance of Code: Veronica. Every entry is special. Each one offers its own flavor of horror and action. I’ve been terrified, amazed, and hooked every time.
New to the series? Dive in anywhere. And if you’re a longtime fan like me, you know the magic this franchise brings. There’s something special about piecing together the lore, fighting creepy monsters, and surviving the chaos. If you’ve never tried them, there’s no better time to start. And with rumors of remakes swirling, the best is probably yet to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 your best bet. It’s got survival horror elements for newbies and enough action too.
Are Resident Evil games scary?
Yes. Are you new here? You’ve been warned.
Can I skip some Resident Evil games?
Yes. But don’t miss the big ones! RE1, RE2, RE4, RE7, and Village are all must-plays.
Is Resident Evil 7 in first-person?
Yes. RE7 shifts to first-person for peak horror and scares.
