The question "how many resident evil games are there in total" is more complex than it initially appears. While the franchise is synonymous with its numbered mainline entries, the answer requires looking beyond the core survival horror sequence. Capcom has expanded the universe across multiple genres, platforms, and timelines, creating a sprawling library that includes direct sequels, experimental side-stories, and full reimaginings.
Defining the Main Canon
When fans ask how many resident evil games there are, they are usually referring to the numbered main series that follows the STARS operatives and the legacy of Spencer Pharmaceuticals. This primary storyline runs from the original Resident Evil on the PlayStation in 1996 through to the recent Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and Resident Evil Village . These titles are unified by continuous narrative arcs, recurring characters like Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, and the iconic setting of the Spencer Estate or its bioterrorism aftermath.
The Core Numerical Sequence
If we strictly count the main numbered entries that advance the primary mythology, the total sits at eight core games. This list includes the original, Resident Evil 2 , Resident Evil 3: Nemesis , Resident Evil – Code: Veronica , Resident Evil 4 , Resident Evil 5 , Resident Evil 6 , and the first-person Resident Evil 7 , with its direct sequel Resident Evil Village rounding out the collection. These games represent the evolution of the franchise from fixed-camera horror to cinematic action and back to immersive simulation.
Exploring the Expanded Universe
However, limiting the count to just those eight titles provides an incomplete picture of the franchise. To truly understand the volume of content, one must examine the expansive roster of spin-offs that explore different genres and tones. These games often serve to flesh out the world, offering side stories that flesh out characters who were mere supporting players in the main narrative.
Genre Diversification and Reboots
The "how many resident evil games are there" tally increases significantly when including the experimental titles. The franchise has seen the release of survival horror games like Resident Evil: Revelations and Resident Evil: Revelations 2 , which returned to the claustrophobic tension of the originals. Furthermore, the industry has seen full reboots that discard continuity, such as the critically lauded Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 remakes, which modernized the classics for a new generation.
Beyond the horror genre, the franchise has branched into other territories. Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D for the 3DS focused entirely on the arcade-style shooter mode. Project X Zone and Project X Zone 2 were tactical RPG crossovers that featured Amuro Ray and other Capcom icons. Even the poorly received Umbrella Corps and the mobile gacha title Resident Evil: Relive Memories contribute to the overall count, showcasing the franchise's aggressive push into live-service and competitive multiplayer spaces.
The Total Tally
So, what is the final number? If one counts every single release bearing the "Resident Evil" brand—from the mainline sequels to the mobile ports and spin-off brawlers—the number exceeds fifteen distinct games. This does not even account for the various editions, remasters, and VR enhancements that have re-released previous experiences.
