Are you ready to step into a world of bio-hazards, shadowy corporations, and spine-chilling survival horror? Whether you have been a curious bystander or a newcomer drawn in by the buzz of the latest remake, knowing how to start a Resident Evil collection is your first real challenge.
The franchise spans nearly three decades, dozens of titles, and an ever-expanding universe of lore. It can feel overwhelming at first glance. But do not worry. This guide is here to help you cut through the noise, find your footing, and start building a collection you will actually enjoy. From choosing your first game to picking up Resident Evil collectables, we have got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- You do not need to play every Resident Evil game in order. Most modern entries are designed as standalone experiences.
- Resident Evil 2 Remake and Resident Evil Village are both excellent starting points for beginners on PS4 and PS5.
- Building a collection goes beyond games. Resident Evil collectables, such as TUBBZ plushies and figures, add personality and real value to your shelf.
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Understanding the Resident Evil Franchise and Where to Begin
The Resident Evil franchise launched in 1996 and quickly became one of the most iconic survival horror series in gaming history. Over the years, Capcom has delivered gripping storylines, memorable characters, and gameplay mechanics that have evolved with each entry.
Whether you prefer tense puzzle-solving, action-packed shootouts, or atmospheric first-person horror, there is something in this series for you.
What Makes Resident Evil a Must-Play Survival Series
At its core, Resident Evil is a character-driven narrative wrapped in survival horror. You are not just fighting monsters. You are unravelling conspiracies, managing limited resources, and making split-second decisions under pressure.
The gameplay mechanics shift across entries, from the classic fixed-camera tension of the originals to the over-the-shoulder action of Resident Evil 4 and the immersive first-person horror of Village. That variety is exactly what keeps millions of fans hooked worldwide. In fact, the franchise has sold over 140 million units globally as of 2024.
Choosing Your First Entry Point as a New Player
If you are asking which Resident Evil is best for beginners, the honest answer is that it depends on your preference. However, most fans and critics point to Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019) as the ideal starting point. It delivers the main storyline of Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield in a polished, modern format without requiring any prior knowledge.
Resident Evil Village is another brilliant beginner-friendly entry point if you prefer first-person action over third-person survival. Both games are accessible, visually impressive, and build genuine tension from the very first moment.
Getting Started with Your First Resident Evil Collection
Once you have dipped your toes into the games, the natural next step is building a proper collection. Knowing how to start a Resident Evil collection means thinking beyond just the discs or downloads. It means curating an experience, a display, a piece of gaming culture that represents what you love about the franchise.
Beginner Tips for Building Your Collection
The best way to start Resident Evil collecting is to keep it focused. Trying to acquire everything at once leads to impulse buys and buyer's remorse. Instead, try these practical tips:
- Start with modern remasters. Titles like the RE2 Remake, RE3 Remake, and RE4 Remake are widely available, critically acclaimed, and offer console compatibility across PS4 and PS5.
- Mix physical and digital. Physical copies have long-term value and look brilliant on a shelf. Digital is convenient for day-one access.
- Add Resident Evil collectables early. Items like TUBBZ plushies and character figures bring life to your collection and are genuinely affordable starting points.
Speaking of Resident Evil collectables, the Resident Evil: Leon S Kennedy TUBBZ Plushie is a fan favourite. It captures Leon in his iconic look in a fun, chibi duck format that sits perfectly on any gaming shelf.
For something a little more offbeat, the Resident Evil: Tofu TUBBZ (Boxed Edition) is a brilliant conversation piece, paying homage to the fan-favourite Tofu Survivor mode. Both are available through TUBBZ UK and make excellent additions to any collection.
Understanding Game Order and Story Flow
One of the most common questions new fans ask is how to approach the series. Should you follow the release order, the chronological timeline, or simply pick whatever looks most interesting? Understanding the difference will save you a lot of confusion.
Release Order vs Chronological Timeline
The Resident Evil games in order of release begin with the original RE1 (1996), followed by RE2 (1998), RE3 (1999), Code Veronica (2000), RE4 (2005), and so on through to RE Village (2021) and RE4 Remake (2023). Following the release order helps you appreciate how the gameplay mechanics and storytelling evolved.
The chronological timeline, on the other hand, places events in-universe, starting with the Arklay Mansion incident (RE0 and RE1) and moving forward through the fall of Raccoon City (RE2 and RE3) and beyond. For those who love lore, the chronological timeline gives a fuller picture of the main storyline.
Do You Really Need to Follow the Full Order?
No, it is not necessary to play the Resident Evil games in order. Most main titles and even many spin-off titles are self-contained enough to be enjoyed independently. That said, playing key entries such as RE2, RE3, and RE7 before tackling Village does enrich certain story beats.
The remakes are also designed to be played without engaging with the classic vs. remake versions debate. You can enjoy the RE2 Remake without ever touching the 1998 original, though doing both is a rewarding experience for dedicated fans.
Complete Overview of Resident Evil Games
To help you see the full picture at a glance, here is a structured overview of the main Resident Evil games and notable spin-offs. It makes it much easier to plan your collection without getting lost in decades of releases.
Main Titles vs Spin-Off Games Explained
Title | Type | Best For |
RE2 Remake (2019) | Main Title | Beginners |
RE Village (2021) | Main Title | Beginners |
RE4 Remake (2023) | Main Title | Action fans |
RE7 Biohazard (2017) | Main Title | Horror fans |
RE0 (2002/2016 Remaster) | Main Title | Lore fans |
RE1 Remake (2002) | Main Title | Classic fans |
RE3 Remake (2020) | Main Title | Series completionists |
Revelations 1 & 2 | Spin-Off | Series fans |
Outbreak File 1 & 2 | Spin-Off | Co-op fans |
RE: Operation Raccoon City | Spin-Off | Action fans |
Platform-Specific Tips for PS5 and PS4 Players
Your platform of choice will shape which games you can access and how you experience them. Both PS5 and PS4 offer excellent libraries of Resident Evil titles, but there are some key differences worth knowing before you start building.
Building a Collection on PlayStation 5
If you want to know how to start a Resident Evil collection on PS5, you are in luck. The PS5 offers the best version of most modern remasters and new releases. The RE2 Remake, RE3 Remake, RE4 Remake, RE7, and Village all run beautifully on PS5 with enhanced frame rates and loading times. Console compatibility is superb, as most PS4 titles are backward compatible. Resident Evil games to play on PS5 would ideally begin with RE2 Remake, followed by RE3 Remake, then RE7, Village, and finally RE4 Remake. It gives you a well-rounded journey through the franchise's modern era.
Building a Collection on PlayStation 4
For PS4 players, knowing how to start a Resident Evil collection on PS4 is just as straightforward. Nearly every major title from the last decade is available on the platform. The Resident Evil games on PS4 follow the same recommended sequence: start with RE2 Remake, then work through RE3 Remake, RE7, and Village.
The PS4 also has access to the RE Origins Collection (RE0 and RE1 Remake), which is perfect for fans who want to explore the franchise's classic roots at a great price.
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Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Every new collector makes a few missteps along the way. Understanding these common pitfalls before you start will save you both time and money as you build your Resident Evil library.
Misconceptions About Order, Difficulty, and Completeness
- Thinking you must follow the chronological timeline exactly. You do not. Most beginner-friendly entry points are designed to stand alone.
- Assuming the original games are too outdated. The remakes modernise the gameplay mechanics brilliantly. Start there if the retro style puts you off.
- Trying to buy everything at once. Focus on quality over quantity. A small, curated collection beats a rushed pile of titles you will never play.
Conclusion
Starting a Resident Evil collection does not need to be complicated. Begin with a beginner-friendly title, build gradually, and do not stress about owning everything immediately. Knowing how to start a Resident Evil collection comes down to one simple truth: start where you feel most drawn in, and let your curiosity guide the rest.
Do not forget that a great collection goes beyond the games themselves. Resident Evil collectables like the TUBBZ Leon S Kennedy Plushie and the Tofu TUBBZ (Boxed Edition), available from TUBBZ UK, are brilliant ways to show your love for the franchise on your shelf. They make perfect gifts and conversation starters for any fan.
The Resident Evil universe is vast, but it is also welcoming. Take your time, enjoy the scares, and build a collection that truly reflects your passion for one of gaming's greatest survival horror franchises.
FAQ: How to Start a Resident Evil Collection
What is the best way to start a Resident Evil collection?
The best way to start a Resident Evil collection is with the RE2 Remake (2019). It is accessible, brilliantly crafted, and requires no prior knowledge of the franchise.
Which Resident Evil can I start with as a complete beginner?
RE2 Remake and RE Village are both fantastic options. Both are widely available on PS4 and PS5, and neither requires you to have played any previous entries.
Is it necessary to play the Resident Evil games in order?
No. Most titles in the series are designed to be enjoyed independently. Following the order helps with lore, but it is not a requirement when you are learning how to start a Resident Evil collection.
How do I start a Resident Evil collection on PS5?
Start with RE2 Remake on PS5 for the best introduction. It runs at a smooth frame rate and looks stunning. Then follow with RE7 and Village for a natural progression.
Should I buy the classic games or the remakes to start my collection?
For beginners, the remakes are the smarter choice. They modernise gameplay mechanics while honouring the originals. Once you are hooked, exploring the classics becomes part of the fun.
