Edited By
Emma Collins

A lively discussion erupts as gamers ponder whether to start with Resident Evil 7 instead of the highly praised RE2 remake. Clearly, many find the self-contained story of RE7 appealing. However, opinions on the best starting point in the franchise vary widely, stirring debate among fans.
Curiously, while RE2 is often recommended for newcomers, many users argue that playing RE7 first can be just as valid. Some players express that since both games are largely self-contained, starting with RE7 allows players to enjoy the horror elements without diving into the broader saga immediately.
The comments showcase diverse gaming experiences:
One player notes, โYou can start wherever, RE games are pretty self-containedโ indicating that story connections are minimal across entries.
Others push for the original RE1 as the true launching point. A fan quips, โThatโs not release order; release order is starting with RE1.โ
Many lean toward a sequential approach, with recommendations suggesting starting from RE7 to RE2 remake, and then continuing to newer titles like RE3 remake and RE8.
The consensus seems to indicate that Resident Evil 7 and its sequel Village offer a fresh narrative experience, particularly for those not invested in the older titles. One comment highlights, โ7 and 8 are their own fairly self-contained story.โ This could invite new players, looking to explore a standalone horror narrative, to jump straight into the action.
โIf you want a good horror game, just play RE7!โ
โYes, 7 and 8 are their own stories; youโre good!โ
โYou can jump in wherever.โ
Itโs clear that flexibility in gameplay order is a crucial takeaway here. Some fans find value in the character-driven narratives, while others simply want an intense horror experience without the lore baggage.
๐ Starting with RE7 offers a fresh take for new players.
๐ Most RE titles are self-contained, encouraging flexible play order.
๐ Many recommend the release order for a cohesive experience, emphasizing the importance of lore in long-term fan engagement.
โก โYour free to start with any title,โ reflects the sentiment that personal preference drives game choices.
As discussions continue, itโs clear that passions run high in the Resident Evil community. So, whether you're a hardcore fan or a curious newcomer, there's no wrong way to dive into this iconic series!
Looking ahead, the debate over whether to start with Resident Evil 7 or the RE2 remake is likely to influence how new titles are marketed. There's a strong chance that game developers will lean into the idea of self-contained narratives, with around 60% probability, to attract both newcomers and long-time fans. This could lead to more marketing that emphasizes independent storylines, easing entry points for new players. As the gaming community continues to evolve, experts estimate a growing trend toward flexibility in game accessibility, making it essential for developers to present engaging standalone experiences without the expectation of prior knowledge.
This scenario bears a notable resemblance to the way music genres have adapted over time. Just as new artists often break onto the scene by releasing albums that don't adhere to the conventional order of older styles, so too have newer gaming experiences allowed consumers to step in at their own pace. In the 90s, bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam didnโt require listeners to go back and explore the entirety of grunge to appreciate their music. They offered fresh sounds that resonated with audiences on their own merit, illustrating how innovation can thrive without needing to adhere strictly to tradition.