Resident Evil is one of the most iconic horror franchises in gaming, with nearly three decades of survival horror games under its belt. From its humble beginnings in 1996 to every new Remake we get, the franchise has constantly reinvented itself. Sometimes with astonishing success, and other times, with mixed results.
So it’s only fair that we rank these games, and that’s exactly what we’re here to do today. Let’s take a look at all the mainline Resident Evil games, including Revelations, and rank them based on story, gameplay, design, and overall impact.
1. Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019)
The Resident Evil 2 Remake is an easy pick for the franchise’s crown jewel. The game is a masterclass in survival horror, and it perfectly balances action with tight level design, excellent pacing, and brings Raccoon City to life perfectly.
We get to see unique perspectives from both Leon and Claire’s stories, and it makes multiple playthroughs worth it. The persistent threat of Mr. X and the intricate puzzles solidify its place at the top.
2. Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023)
If RE2 is the game that nails horror, RE4’s remake perfects the franchise’s action side. We say goodbye to the awkward controls of the original because they have been replaced with new, responsive mechanics and stunning visuals.
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The game is a perfect mix of action and tension, and does all that while still having a good story to follow. There are too many things to like about the RE4 Remake. The side quests, day-lit horror settings, and nuanced pacing, all of them put together, make it one of Capcom’s best remakes.
3. Resident Evil (Remaster, 2002)
The remastered version of the 1996 classic brought Resident Evil into the modern age without losing its identity. Exploration was still tense, we still had to think of resource management, and the puzzles were still a big part of the experience. It may be old, but it’s still one of the scariest and most rewarding entries in the series.
4. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)
The RE3 Remake may have been a disappointment, but the original was anything but. With Nemesis hunting players across an open Raccoon City and a real-time decision system being in the story, RE3 really showed us the chaos of an outbreak in full swing. Jill Valentine’s desperate escape felt urgent and earned, making it one of the franchise’s most intense entries.
5. Resident Evil Village (2021)
RE Village is visually stunning and packed with personality, and is one entertaining ride, though it occasionally trades fear for flair. The opening hours, especially Lady Dimitrescu’s castle, deliver a lot of cinematic horror, but the game’s later sections lean heavily into action.
While not as terrifying as the older games, Village has high replay value with strong set pieces and vibrant design. And you know, some people will replay it for Lady Dimitrescu alone, so there’s that.
6. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)
Resident Evil 7 took the bold step of shifting to a first-person perspective. We’re taken to the Baker family’s house in this game, and it is a labyrinth of terror. Of course, the game’s design also made us feel utterly vulnerable. RE7 has a good blend of classic puzzle-solving and exploration with modern horror tropes. It took the series forward to a new era of gaming.
7. Resident Evil: Code Veronica (2000)
Despite never getting a remake, Code Veronica has a lot of dedicated fans. It has a dark setting and a complicated story that pushes the series’ lore forward significantly, with twisted antagonists like Alfred and Alexia Ashford. But you should know that it’s one of the more difficult games on the list and its aging mechanics prevent it from ranking higher, despite its narrative significance and eerie ambiance.
8. Resident Evil 5 (2009)
RE5 is a weird one because it is a co-op game. With another player, it’s a fun time full of chaotic action and teamwork. But if you play it alone, the AI is pretty lackluster, and it diminishes the fun. RE5 tried to take advantage of RE4’s success, but went too far on the action instead of the suspense. Still, the boss fights and Wesker’s confrontation are unforgettable moments.
9. Resident Evil Zero (2002)
RE Zero brought an intriguing partner-switch mechanic to the classic formula, adding a strategic layer to exploration. Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen’s adventure fleshes out Umbrella’s backstory, but its awkward inventory system and lack of item boxes can make gameplay feel more frustrating than challenging. Still, its atmosphere and puzzles hold up well.
10. Resident Evil 6 (2012)
This title is most definitely the black sheep of the series. RE6 tried to be everything for everyone, and failed at most of it. With four campaigns and a far too ambitious plot, it lacked focus. The game relied way too much on over-the-top action, and it felt like we were playing a Michael Bay game.
Of course, there are moments that stand out, but gameplay repetition and inconsistency bury this entry at the bottom of the list. We’re going to get a new entry on our list next year when Resident Evil Requiem comes out.
Where do you think Capcom’s upcoming new entry into the franchise will land? Let us know your thoughts!
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