Resident Evil Requiem, releasing February 27, 2026, hasn’t revealed a lot but — we solely understand it returns to Raccoon Metropolis and follows two essential characters. Nonetheless, it’s already clear which earlier Resident Evil video games are price enjoying to grasp the story higher. You don’t must play each recreation, however just a few are actually essential.
An important Resident Evil video games to play earlier than Requiem are those set in Raccoon Metropolis, these that includes Leon S. Kennedy, and those that give background on Grace Ashcroft, the sport’s second protagonist. In fact, if you happen to can replay all of them, even higher, however these are the important thing video games we suggest.
Resident Evil
The very first Resident Evil is a should. The simplest option to play it right now is thru the Resident Evil HD Remaster, accessible on current-gen platforms. That is the place we be taught what the T-Virus is and what occurred on the Spencer Mansion, organising backstory for the outbreak that later destroys Raccoon Metropolis.
Resident Evil 2
The second recreation is important as a result of it marks Leon S. Kennedy’s debut within the sequence — his first day as a rookie cop in Raccoon Metropolis, proper after the occasions of the unique recreation, when the virus begins to unfold. The Resident Evil 2 Remake is wonderful, so there’s no excuse to not play it (and ensure to expertise it from Leon’s perspective).
Resident Evil 3 (Non-obligatory)
Whereas not as essential, Resident Evil 3 reveals the ultimate destruction of Raccoon Metropolis, serving to us perceive the town’s situation in Resident Evil Requiem. You solely really want to know that it ends with the town’s destruction — however because it’s additionally an amazing recreation, you would possibly as properly play it when you have time.
Resident Evil Outbreak – File #1 and File #2
These video games are key to understanding Grace Ashcroft’s background, as they introduce Alyssa Ashcroft, her mom, and occasions related to Requiem’s essential plot. Sadly, these titles are practically not possible to play on trendy platforms and had been designed primarily for on-line multiplayer. Due to this, watching a narrative recap is the best option to be taught their key occasions.
Resident Evil 4
Starring Leon once more, Resident Evil 4 takes place just a few years after the Raccoon Metropolis catastrophe. Whereas not important for understanding the principle occasions of Requiem, it helps you be taught extra about Leon’s character and the way he has modified since then. Plus, the Resident Evil 4 Remake is superb and value enjoying by itself
Resident Evil 6 (Non-obligatory)
Set fifteen years after Raccoon Metropolis, Resident Evil 6 brings again Leon, although its story isn’t essential for Requiem. Nonetheless, due to rumors about returning characters, it is likely to be price enjoying when you have time — despite the fact that it wasn’t as properly obtained as different video games within the sequence.
What About Ethan Winters and the Latest Video games?
You would possibly marvel if it’s essential to have performed Resident Evil 7 or Resident Evil Village — and the reality is, most likely not. Requiem appears targeted on the legacy of Raccoon Metropolis and on Leon and Grace’s tales, fairly than the Winters household timeline.
Nonetheless, there might be small connections or references to Resident Evil 7 (2017) and Village (2021), since Requiem is about in 2028. If you wish to be a completist and perceive each element within the wider universe, it’s price checking them out — however if you happen to’re quick on time, concentrate on the sooner titles. You’ve bought till February 27 to prepare!
If you wish to know extra about Resident Evil Requiem, Capcom has revealed how a lot playtime Leon could have and introduced an official Resident Evil Requiem–themed Nintendo Swap 2 Professional Controller, which is able to debut alongside the sport on February 27, 2026.
