All Resident Evil games in release order

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Resident Evil is a ubiquitous name in gaming – even if you never played a single game, you’ve certainly heard about it. The series helped define the survival horror genre from the very start, with many games copying the style, mechanics, and atmosphere they evoked. Created by Capcom in 1996 with Biohazard as the working title, over the years the series introduced different characters navigating outbreaks of bio-engineered horrors, such as zombies and monstrous mutants, often tied to sinister corporate conspiracies. While the early entries focused on fixed camera angles, resource management, and slow-paced combat, over the years, Resident Evil evolved, incorporating more action-oriented gameplay while retaining its core themes of bio-terrorism and human experimentation. There have been 30 Resident Evil games over the years if we count spinoffs, though eight of them are considered to be mainline. So join us as we go down the list of all Resident Evil games in their release order.

Resident Evil (1996)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil.
  • Platforms: PlayStation, PC, Sega Saturn, Nintendo DS
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

The inaugural game of the franchise, Resident Evil (initially called Biohazard) was released on March 22, 1996. The iconic story follows members of the Special Tactics and Rescue Service, aka S.T.A.R.S., Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, who are sent to investigate strange murders near the Spencer Mansion. Inside, they discover the deadly T-virus outbreak, turning the mansion’s inhabitants into grotesque monsters (including rabid dogs jumping through windows, oh the memories). The gameplay combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, with limited resources adding to a sense of building tension. Players must manage their health, ammo, and inventory. After its release, the game was praised for its horror atmosphere, suspense, and innovative mechanics, earning critical acclaim – it is often credited with spawning the “survival horror” genre as we know it.

Resident Evil 2 (1998)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 2.
  • Platforms: PlayStation, PC, Nintendo 64, Nintendo GameCube, Sega Dreamcast
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

The direct sequel, Resident Evil 2 was released on January 21, 1998. The game continues the story in the infected Raccoon City. This time around, you play as the rookie cop Leon S. Kennedy and college student Claire Redfield, who must navigate through the city’s zombie-filled streets and the deadly Raccoon City Police Department to escape. The game builds on its predecessor’s formula with improved controls, a larger, interconnected world, and the introduction of the “Zapping System,” where players’ actions in one character’s story affect the other’s. The game was lauded for its atmosphere, storytelling, and technical advancements, and is often considered one of the greatest video games of all time.

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Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 3: Nemesis.
  • Platforms: PlayStation, PC, Sega Dreamcast, Nintendo GameCube
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 3: Nemesis was released on September 22, 1999. Jill Valentine returns in the third instalment, as she tries to escape Raccoon City which is now overrun by zombies and bio-organic creatures due to the T-virus outbreak. All the while, Jill must evade the relentless Nemesis, a towering bio-weapon created by the Umbrella Corporation – all while uncovering secrets about the corporation’s experiments. Compared to the previous game, RE3 introduced more action-oriented gameplay, with real-time 3D environments and a more dynamic camera. The “Live Selection” system offered players choices that could influence the storyline. While praised for its tense atmosphere, improved mechanics, and especially Nemesis’ terrifying presence, the game received mixed reviews due to its shorter length compared to its predecessor.

Resident Evil – Code: Veronica (2000)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil - Code: Veronica.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Sega Dreamcast, Xbox 360, Nintendo GameCube
  • Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil – Code: Veronica was released on February 3, 2000. In many ways, it’s a direct continuation of the Resident Evil series, following Claire Redfield and her brother, Chris, after the events of Resident Evil 2. Captured by the Umbrella Corporation, Claire ends up on a remote island, where she uncovers dark secrets about the company’s experiments. The game features full 3D environments and a more fluid control system compared to earlier titles. With a focus on exploration, puzzles, and resource management. Code: Veronica was well-received for pushing the series forward in terms of technical and story elements, even receiving an expanded version named Code: Veronica X for PS2 and a remaster in 2011.


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Resident Evil Remake (2002)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Remake.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo Switch
  • Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil Remake was released on March 22, 2002, as a full overhaul of the 1996 classic. The game offers a visual overhaul for the full game and a modernized version of the original story. Once again, players control Jill Valentine or Chris Redfield as they investigate the mansion filled with horrific creatures and uncover the sinister work of the Umbrella Corporation. The remake improves upon the original with higher fidelity graphics, pre-rendered backgrounds, and remastered character models. It also introduces a reworked control system, new puzzles, and improved voice acting. The atmosphere is even more intense, and the story is expanded with new plot details. The game was widely praised for its faithful yet innovative approach, becoming a standout in the survival horror genre when it comes to remakes.

Resident Evil Zero (2002)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Zero.
  • Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
  • Developer: Capcom Production Studio 3
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil Zero was released on November 12, 2002, and serves as a prequel to the original Resident Evil game. Zero focuses on Rebecca Chambers, a rookie S.T.A.R.S. medic, and Billy Coen, a former Marine on the run. The game follows them as they investigate a series of murders near the infamous Spencer Mansion, uncovering the origins of the T-virus. A notable innovation is the “partner zapping” mechanic, where players can control both characters independently, solving puzzles and combat scenarios together. The game’s fixed camera angles and survival-horror elements are familiar, but it introduces more fluid movement and item management. Reception was positive for its tense atmosphere and innovative gameplay, though some criticized its slower pacing.

Resident Evil Outbreak (2003)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Outbreak.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 2
  • Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil Outbreak was first released in Japan on December 11, 2003, followed by a March 30, 2004 release in the US, and September 17, 2004 for the PAL region. It marks the first time that the franchise introduced an online multiplayer experience within the Resident Evil universe. Set during the Raccoon City outbreak in RE2 and 3, players control one of eight ordinary citizens trying to survive the chaos, each with their own abilities. Unlike previous games, the story is divided into scenarios, with players working together in multiplayer or solo, to solve puzzles, avoid zombies, and survive. It was one of the first Resident Evil games to feature online co-op, though it faced criticism for its clunky controls and limited online functionality. Despite this, it was praised for its fresh take on the franchise’s formula. The game also received a standalone expansion, Resident Evil Outbreak: File #2, released in 2004.

Resident Evil 4 (2005)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 4.
  • Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, PC, Nintendo Wii
  • Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 4 was released on January 11, 2005. In many ways, it revolutionized the survival horror genre with its dramatic shift in gameplay. The game follows Leon S. Kennedy, now a government agent, as he rescues the US president’s daughter, Ashley Graham, from a cult in rural Spain. In the franchise’s first departure from the fixed camera angles, the game shifted to the third-person perspective with an over-the-shoulder camera. Another major innovation was the new dynamic combat system, focusing more on action while retaining survival horror elements. The game also introduced quick-time events and more fluid controls compared to previous titles. Resident Evil 4 was widely praised for its innovativeness, story, and atmosphere, and is often considered to be one of the greatest games in the series.

Resident Evil 5 (2009)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 5.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nvidia Shield TV
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 5 was released on March 5, 2009. The game continues the series with Chris Redfield returning as the protagonist, now working for the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSAA). He’s sent to Africa to investigate a new viral outbreak linked to a mysterious cult. Partnered with Sheva Alomar, players face swarms of infected enemies in expansive environments. The game introduces co-op gameplay, allowing players to control Chris and Sheva, either solo or in multiplayer mode. It shifts further from horror towards action, with more refined control and combat systems, and real-time inventory management. Though praised for its graphics and co-op mechanics, Resident Evil 5 received mixed reviews for its focus on action over horror, while drawing criticism for its racial themes.

Resident Evil: Revelations (2012)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Revelations.
  • Platforms: Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo Switch
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil: Revelations was released on January 26, 2012, with an attempt to return to the series’ survival horror roots. The plot follows Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield as they investigate a mysterious abandoned cruise ship, Queen Zenobia. The story uncovers a new bioterrorism threat linked to the T-Abyss virus – a strain of the infamous T-virus – leading to encounters with monstrous creatures and sinister conspiracies. The game returns to the traditional fixed-camera system, with tension-filled exploration, and puzzle-solving, while also introducing dynamic new mechanics like a more streamlined inventory and weapon customization. It was praised for its atmospheric design, controls, and return to survival horror, though some criticized its episodic structure. Revelations received positive reviews for revitalizing the series after the more action-focused Resident Evil 5.

Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City (2012)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Operation Raccoon City.
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
  • Developer: Slant Six Games, Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City was released on March 20, 2012, for consoles, and on May 18, 2012, on the PC. The game is a third-person shooter set during the events of Resident Evil 2 and 3, offering a new perspective on the Raccoon City outbreak. Players control a team of Umbrella Security Service operatives (USS) sent to erase evidence of the corporation’s involvement in the crisis. The game features an all-new team-based combat system, where players can choose from various operatives with unique abilities, and features multiplayer modes. The game once again deviated from the series’ survival horror roots, focusing more on the action. This led to the game receiving mixed reviews, with criticism aimed at its clunky mechanics, AI issues, and lacklustre narrative.

Resident Evil 6 (2012)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 6.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 6 was released on October 2, 2012, and marks a dramatic shift in the series, blending action and survival horror with multiple interconnected storylines. Players control several characters, including Leon S. Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Ada Wong, and Jake Muller, as they battle a global bioterrorism outbreak caused by a new virus. The game features a variety of gameplay styles, from traditional survival horror to explosive action sequences, and introduces cooperative gameplay both offline and online. While praised for its ambitious scope and graphics, Resident Evil 6 received mixed reviews, with criticism focusing on its overt emphasis on action over horror, clunky controls, and lack of focus on the story.

Resident Evil: Revelations 2 (2015)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Revelations 2.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil: Revelations 2 was released in an episodic format, featuring four episodes released between February 24, 2015, and March 17, 2015. The plot follows Claire Redfield and Moira Burton as they are kidnapped from a party and taken to a mysterious island in the Baltic Sea. The story then alternates between Claire and Moira’s struggle to escape, Barry Burton’s search for his daughter Moira, and Natalia Korda, a child with supernatural powers. The game returns to survival horror roots, featuring a mix of exploration, puzzles, and combat, with improved mechanics like a cooperative gameplay system, where players can control both characters. It also introduces a more refined inventory system and more tactically adept enemies to fight. While praised for its atmosphere and co-op features, Revelations 2 received some criticism for its episodic release format and pacing.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 7: Biohazard.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mac, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard was initially released on January 24, 2017, followed by further releases across different platforms between 2018 and 2024. The game marks a dramatic shift in the Resident Evil franchise, once again moving from the series’ traditional third-person perspective to first-person survival horror gameplay. Set in a decaying plantation house in Louisiana, you play as Ethan Winters, who’s searching for his missing wife, Mia. He encounters the terrifying Baker family, who have been infected by a mysterious substance. The game doubles down on atmosphere and horror elements, with the usual mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The reception was largely positive, praising its return to survival horror roots, compared to the more action-oriented Resident Evil 5 and 6. In addition, the game’s use of VR, immersion, and intense, claustrophobic gameplay helped it stand out in the series.

Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 2 Remake.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mac, Amazon Luna
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 2 Remake was released on January 25, 2019, followed by releases on other platforms between 2022 and 2024. It reimagines the 1998 classic with modern visuals, updated mechanics, and a more immersive experience. The story follows the familiar Raccoon City plot involving Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield. The remake stays true to the fixed third-person over-the-shoulder camera, with improved combat and puzzle-solving mechanics, which offer a smoother experience compared to the original. The story remains largely faithful but includes expanded character development and further narrative points. The game received widespread acclaim for its upgraded visuals and faithful yet innovative updates to the classic.

Resident Evil 3 Remake (2020)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 3 Remake.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Luna
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 3 Remake was released on April 3, 2020, with further releases for other platforms in 2022. The game, as it’s implied, remakes the original with modern visuals, updated gameplay, and expanded story elements. Set during the Raccoon City outbreak, we once again play as Jill Valentine while she attempts to escape the city, all while being relentlessly pursued by the bio-engineered monster, Nemesis. The remake introduces a dynamic over-the-shoulder camera and modernized combat, but with a greater emphasis on action compared to the original’s more survival-focused gameplay. The story is slightly altered to include new narrative beats and characters. While receiving praise for its visuals and gameplay, the game’s shorter length, diminished story, and missing features from the original received a good dose of criticism.

Resident Evil: Resistance (2020)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Resistance.
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
  • Developer: NeoBards Entertainment
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil: Resistance was released on April 3, 2020, alongside the Resident Evil 3 Remake as an asymmetric multiplayer spin-off. In this game, players are divided into two roles: four survivors trying to escape a deadly lab environment and one “Mastermind” controlling traps, monsters, and cameras to hinder their progress. The survivors, each with unique abilities, must work together to solve puzzles, fight off enemies, and escape before time runs out. The reception was mixed at best, with criticism for repetitive gameplay, balance and technical issues, and a lack of dedicated servers. In addition, when compared to other games in the franchise, Resistance was seen as a notable departure from the series’ traditional narrative-driven focus.

Resident Evil Village (2021)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil Village.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil Village, the eighth mainline instalment in the franchise, was released on May 7, 2021. The game continues Ethan Winters’ story from Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. Set in a mysterious European village, Ethan searches for his kidnapped daughter, Rose, while uncovering dark secrets and facing off against grotesque enemies, including the infamous Lady Dimitrescu. The game blends first-person survival horror with action elements, with now-expected offerings of exploration, combat, and puzzles. Notable new features include a more open-world structure and a merchant system. Reception was generally positive, with praise for its visuals, atmosphere, and gameplay innovations, although some criticized the game’s pacing. In essence, the game builds on RE7’s formula, while incorporating more action elements akin to RE4.

Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023)

Cover image for the game Resident Evil 4 Remake.
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Mac
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil 4 Remake was released on March 24, 2023. True to the original, the game follows Leon S. Kennedy on a mission to rescue the president’s daughter, Ashley Graham from a cult in rural Spain. The remake retains the core plot but features updated visuals, voice acting, and a more fleshed-out story. The over-the-shoulder camera and updated combat mechanics add to the game’s combination of action and survival horror. New features include expanded character interactions and side quests. The game received largely positive reception, with praise for its improved gameplay, visuals, and atmosphere, although some criticized minor pacing changes compared to the original RE4. However, most agree that the remake successfully modernized the original while keeping its essence intact.

List of Resident Evil spin-offs

Besides the mainline games and notable spin-offs listed above, there have been several entries with smaller scope or with vast deviations from the franchise. Including arcade gun-games, tactical co-ops, and multiplayer modes, the table below lists all of them:

TitleRelease yearPlatforms
Resident Evil Survivor2000Arcade, PlayStation, PC
Resident Evil Survivor 2 – Code: Veronica2001Arcade, PlayStation 2
Resident Evil Gaiden2001Game Boy Color
Resident Evil: Dead Aim2003PlayStation 2
Resident Evil: Deadly Silence2006Nintendo DS
Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles2007Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3
Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles2009Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3
Resident Evil: Mercenaries 3D2011Nintendo 3DS
Umbrella Corps2016PC, PlayStation 4
Resident Evil Re: Verse2022PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

About the Author

Miljan Truc

Miljan has been into gaming since the days of Sega Mega Drive and Amiga. During his gaming career, he has raided at a high level, coached other players, and written about games since 2016.