Should I Play Biohazard Before Village?
When it comes to the Resident Evil series, fans often find themselves at a crossroads when deciding which game to play first. The classic Resident Evil 2, also known as Biohazard in Japan, and Resident Evil Village are two of the most iconic entries in the franchise. The question on many minds is: should I play Biohazard before Village? In this article, we will explore the reasons why you might want to start with Biohazard and the potential benefits of playing Village first.
Understanding the Series
Before diving into the debate, it’s important to understand the Resident Evil series. The series began with Resident Evil, which was a groundbreaking survival horror game that set the standard for the genre. Biohazard, as the second game in the series, followed suit and introduced players to the iconic Raccoon City and the zombie-infested world that would become synonymous with the series. Village, on the other hand, is a prequel that takes place in the same universe but focuses on a different character and setting.
Why Play Biohazard First?
There are several reasons why you might want to play Biohazard before Village:
1. Story Continuity: Biohazard serves as a prequel to Village, so understanding the events of Biohazard will provide a clearer picture of the series’ timeline and character development. By playing Biohazard first, you’ll be better equipped to appreciate the narrative in Village.
2. Gameplay Differences: Biohazard is a more traditional survival horror game, with fixed camera angles and limited inventory space. Playing this game first will help you get accustomed to the genre’s mechanics, which can be quite different from the more open-world approach of Village.
3. Character Development: Biohazard introduces key characters such as Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, who play significant roles in Village. By playing Biohazard first, you’ll become familiar with these characters and their backgrounds, making the transition to Village smoother.
4. Setting Familiarity: Raccoon City is a central location in the Resident Evil series, and playing Biohazard will give you a better understanding of the city’s layout and history. This knowledge will be beneficial when exploring the more remote and mysterious setting of Village.
Why Play Village First?
While there are advantages to playing Biohazard first, some players might prefer to start with Village:
1. Open-World Exploration: Village offers a more open-world experience, allowing players to explore a vast and diverse landscape. If you’re interested in a game that emphasizes exploration and freedom, starting with Village might be the better choice.
2. Unique Storytelling: Village features a unique narrative that delves into the psychological aspects of its characters. If you’re intrigued by the psychological horror elements in the series, starting with Village might provide a more immediate immersion into the genre.
3. Character Focus: Village follows Chris Redfield, a character who is not present in Biohazard. By starting with Village, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Chris’s story and character development from the beginning.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether to play Biohazard before Village depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking to get out of the experience. If you’re interested in understanding the series’ timeline and character development, or if you’re a fan of traditional survival horror, playing Biohazard first might be the better choice. However, if you’re intrigued by open-world exploration and unique storytelling, starting with Village could be more enjoyable. Either way, both games offer a thrilling and immersive experience that is sure to captivate any Resident Evil fan.
