Resident Evil Remakes vs Originals: Which to Play First

If you are new to the series, start with the Resident Evil 2 remake (2019) — it is the most accessible entry point, balancing modern controls, faithful atmosphere, and a self-contained story. If you are a returning fan deciding between a remake and its original, play the original first only when you already care about the lore; otherwise, the remake is almost always the better first experience. This article compares every mainline remake with its original, explains what each version changes, and gives a clear play order for newcomers and veterans.

Background: Why the Remakes Exist

Capcom began remaking the early Resident Evil games after the success of Resident Evil HD Remaster (2015), which was itself a remaster of the 2002 GameCube remake of the 1996 original. The goal was to bring the classic survival-horror titles in line with modern third-person shooting and camera conventions, while preserving the core story and puzzle design. The remakes are not simple graphical upgrades; they rebuild levels, rewrite dialogue, change enemy behavior, and sometimes alter plot details. The 2019 RE2 remake and the 2020 RE3 remake are full reimaginings, while RE4 (2023) is a near-scene-for-scene retelling with expanded gameplay. The 2002 RE1 remake is the most conservative, keeping the fixed cameras and tank controls but adding new areas and the Crimson Head enemy type.

How the Remakes Differ From the Originals

Each remake makes different trade-offs. The RE1 remake (2002) is longer and harder than the 1996 original, with more puzzles, a new defensive item system, and the ability to burn corpses to prevent them from returning as faster enemies. The RE2 remake (2019) replaces the original’s fixed camera angles with an over-the-shoulder view, adds a Mr. X stalker who follows you through the police station, and changes the A/B scenario system so that the two characters’ campaigns are more similar. The RE3 remake (2020) is noticeably shorter than the 1999 original, cutting several locations (like the clock tower and park) and simplifying the Nemesis encounters into scripted action set-pieces. The RE4 remake (2023) keeps the original’s structure and most of its iconic moments, but tones down the campy dialogue, expands the island section, and makes the parry mechanic a core combat tool.

How to Choose: A Simple Decision Tree

Your choice depends on what you value most. Use this guide:

• New to the series and want the best first impression: Play RE2 remake (2019). It has modern controls, a gripping atmosphere, and no prior knowledge needed.
• Want the purest classic survival-horror experience: Play the RE1 remake (2002). It is the definitive version of the original fixed-camera style.
• Want the shortest, most action-focused entry: Play the RE3 remake (2020). It is about 6-8 hours, much shorter than the original’s 10-12.
• Want the most faithful remake: Play the RE4 remake (2023). It is the closest to its source material in tone and structure.
• Want to understand the story differences: Play the originals first, then the remakes. The originals are still available on modern platforms via HD remasters and the original RE4 is included in most collections.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

A frequent misconception is that the remakes are “just the same game with better graphics.” In reality, the RE2 and RE3 remakes are almost entirely new games: the level layouts are different, the enemy AI is new, and the story beats are rearranged. Another common problem is that players who start with the remakes often find the originals’ tank controls and fixed cameras frustrating. If you play the original RE1 or RE2 after the remakes, you may need to adjust to the slower pace and the lack of a modern aiming reticle. Also, the RE3 remake’s short length is a frequent complaint, but it was designed as a side-story that runs parallel to RE2, not a full sequel. Finally, some players expect the remakes to include all the original’s content; the RE3 remake notably omits the “Mercenaries” mode that was in the original, which disappointed some fans.

Comparison: Which Remake Is the “Best” First?

If you only play one game, the RE2 remake is the strongest recommendation. It balances horror and action, has a well-paced story, and its Mr. X mechanic creates genuine tension without being unfair. The RE4 remake is a close second, but it leans more into action and requires some familiarity with the series’ characters to fully appreciate the callbacks. The RE1 remake is the best for purists, but its fixed camera and slow movement can be off-putting to modern players. The RE3 remake is the weakest as a first entry because it assumes you know Jill Valentine and the Raccoon City incident, and its brevity leaves little room for exploration.

Cost and Availability

All the remakes are available on current platforms (PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series, PC, and Nintendo Switch for RE1 and RE4). The originals are also sold digitally: RE1 (1996) and RE2 (1998) are available as “Classics” on the PlayStation Store and Steam, and RE4 (2005) is included in the Resident Evil 4 Ultimate HD Edition on Steam. Prices vary by platform, but the remakes are typically full-priced at launch and drop over time. The originals are usually cheaper, especially during sales. There is no subscription service that consistently includes all versions, so check your platform’s store. If you are on a budget, start with the original RE4 (2005) — it is often sold for under $10 and still holds up well.

Safety and Content Notes

All Resident Evil games are rated M for Mature (17+) due to violence, gore, and intense horror imagery. The remakes are generally more graphic than the originals, with realistic dismemberment and body horror. The RE1 remake features the most disturbing enemy designs, including the Crimson Heads. If you are sensitive to jump scares or blood, consider playing with the lights on and taking breaks. Also, the original RE1 and RE2 have some dated and potentially offensive cultural depictions, particularly in the voice acting and character portrayals; the remakes tone these down. There is no real-world safety risk in playing, but the games can be psychologically intense, so it is wise to pace yourself.

Alternatives to the Remakes

If you want a similar experience but are not sure about the remakes, consider the Resident Evil Revelations games, which are spin-offs that use a similar over-the-shoulder camera and episodic structure. The Resident Evil 7 and Village are first-person and more horror-focused, but they continue the story and are excellent in their own right. For a more action-oriented take, Resident Evil 6 is often criticized but offers a co-op campaign. If you want to experience the original story without the old controls, the RE2 and RE3 remakes are the best way, but the original RE1 is still the only way to get the full Spencer Mansion experience, as no remake has been made for it yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I play the originals before the remakes?

No, the remakes are designed to be standalone. You do not need to play the originals to understand the story. Playing the originals first can make you appreciate the remakes’ changes, but it is not required.

Which remake is the most faithful to the original?

The RE4 remake (2023) is the most faithful in terms of story and level structure. It keeps the same major set-pieces and dialogue beats, while the RE2 and RE3 remakes change more significantly.

Is the RE3 remake worth it if it’s so short?

Yes, if you can find it on sale. It is a high-quality action-horror experience, but its length (6-8 hours) is much shorter than the original. If you want a longer game, choose RE2 remake instead.

Can I play the remakes without having played any Resident Evil game?

Yes, each remake is self-contained enough for newcomers. RE2 and RE3 are directly connected, but you can start with either. RE4 assumes you know Leon and the events of RE2, but it provides enough context.

Do the remakes have the same puzzles as the originals?

Some puzzles are similar, but most are redesigned. The RE1 remake adds new puzzles, while RE2 and RE3 remakes simplify or replace many of the original’s puzzles. RE4 remake keeps most of the original’s puzzles but changes a few.

Which version should I play if I want the scariest experience?

The RE1 remake (2002) is widely considered the scariest due to its claustrophobic mansion setting and limited resources. The RE2 remake is also very tense, especially with Mr. X. The RE4 remake is more action-oriented and less scary.

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