Highlights
Resident Evil games maintain a dark and mysterious atmosphere despite moments of cheesiness, with monsters, environments, and music contributing to the eerie ambiance.
Resident Evil games often have chilling and ominous conclusions that make a lasting impact, effectively portraying the horrifying essence of the game universe. These endings frequently introduce unexpected turns or hints about upcoming chapters, intensifying the overall feeling of fear and suspense.
While the Resident Evil series indeed contains moments of cheesiness and silliness, it consistently maintains a sinister and enigmatic ambiance evident in its creatures, settings, and musical score. Each installment in the franchise adds its unique twists to the well-known Resident Evil formula, rejuvenating the gameplay. However, all the games adhere to the survival horror template of searching for resources and weapons to survive a horrifying ordeal.
The conclusion of these games is not always pleasant, as many of them leave a slightly unsettling undertone or implication that can send chills down the spine of first-time players. These darker endings often serve as a setup for the next game, but in some cases, they feel like Capcom's way of reminding fans just how terrifying this game universe can be.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead
7 Resident Evil: Code Veronica
Resident Evil CODE:Veronica
Platform(s): Dreamcast, GameCube, PS2, PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: February 29, 2000
Developer(s): Capcom
Genre(s): Survival Horror
Although absent for significant portions of the game, particularly in the original versions, Wesker remains a central antagonist in Resident Evil: Code Veronica. At this stage of the narrative, Wesker has transformed into a superhuman entity, effortlessly eliminating ordinary individuals. Nevertheless, his plans have consistently been thwarted by his long-standing rival and former STARS comrade, Chris Redfield.
6 Resident Evil 7
By the conclusion of the game, following the defeat of the deranged Alexia, Chris successfully avoids Wesker's attempt to kill him before fleeing from the self-destructing Antarctic base. Although both Chris and Claire manage to escape unharmed, the ending becomes even more unsettling due to the bloodied Wesker's ominous laughter amidst the exploding surroundings, providing fans with a chilling glimpse of the true extent of this beloved antagonist's invincibility.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
Platform(s): PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Switch, Stadia, PC
Released: January 24, 2017
Developer(s): Capcom
Genre(s): Survival Horror
Following a harrowing ordeal in the Baker Estate, protagonist Ethan finally escapes the swampy surroundings after defeating a mutated Eveline, the catalyst behind the Baker family transformation. Initially, Ethan's rescue by the peculiar Chris Redfield brings some relief, but the situation takes a turn for the worse when the characters embark on an airborne journey.
As the sun sets and the helicopter takes off, Ethan and Mia discuss how the long-lasting nightmare has finally come to an end. A clear view of the Umbrella logo, now in blue instead of red, is seen by the fans. Although this change may appear to indicate a move towards opposing bioterrorism rather than supporting it, Chris openly admits that he still harbors suspicions towards them. Capcom has shed some light on the group's history and intentions since the game's release, but nobody could have predicted their actions after abducting Ethan and Mia at the conclusion of Resident Evil 7.
5 Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles (Memories Of A Lost City)
Given that the Darkside Chronicles offers a different gameplay style while retelling the classic games, it's logical that most of the cutscenes and dialogue remain largely unchanged. However, Capcom decided to add a little something extra to the conclusion of Leon and Claire's journey. After departing Raccoon City on a train, accompanied by their newfound companion Sherry, they venture onward into the distance. Leon explains that Claire will continue her search for her brother.
However, in this updated conclusion, he proceeds to reveal that he and Sherry were apprehended by the US military for interrogation. Subsequently, a visual depiction portrays Leon being questioned by the military, who assert that Sherry is being well taken care of. They then convey to Leon that if he desires a peaceful resolution, he must join their ranks. This masterfully connects Leon's transformation from an inexperienced police officer to the formidable special agent he becomes in Resident Evil 4. However, it also adds a significantly darker twist to the optimistic ending of the original.
4 Resident Evil 6 (Chris)
Resident Evil 6
Platform(s): PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Developer(s): Capcom
Genre(s): Third-Person Shooter
Out of the four distinct campaigns in Resident Evil 6, Chris' story stands out with its impactful ending and dark undertones. Throughout his campaign, Chris undergoes a personal transformation, evolving from a disillusioned veteran haunted by the loss of his team to a determined warrior who understands the importance of seeking justice for his fallen comrades.
What adds to the sorrow of the story is that, in spite of his utmost efforts to protect his comrades, Chris witnesses the demise of each of his new squadmates, one by one. However, the ultimate gut-wrenching moment is when Piers valiantly sacrifices himself in the final battle against the Haos B.O.W. This incident strengthens Chris's determination, but the fact that he remains unable to ensure the safety of others and eventually embarks on a solitary journey lends a profoundly dark undertone to the conclusion.
3 Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village
Platform(s): PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Stadia, PC
Release Date: May 7, 2021
Developer(s): Capcom
Genre(s): Survival (duped), Horror
After confronting the four Monstrous Lords and ultimately facing Mother Miranda herself, Ethan finally reunites with his daughter Rose, whom he had lost at the beginning of the game. Sadly, this heartfelt moment turns out to be their final encounter. Just before the ultimate showdown, it is revealed that Ethan had actually perished in the Baker Estate and is now a decaying mold creature, slowly deteriorating with each passing moment.
Realizing the limited time left, Ethan bids his final farewells to Rose before entrusting her safety to Chris. As Ethan kneels before the Megamycete, clutching a trigger, he obliterates the colossal monster, sacrificing himself to ensure his wife and daughter's escape. Given the expectations set by previous Resident Evil games, where Ethan and Rose would have typically survived and left the Village unscathed, this unexpected and emotionally intense ending adds an especially poignant impact on the new protagonist of the story.
2 Resident Evil 4 (2023)
Resident Evil 4 Remake
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
Release Date: March 24, 2023
Developer(s): Capcom
Genre(s): Survival Horror
The remake of Resident Evil 4 successfully revitalized the classic experience while maintaining its core elements. Capcom expanded on the story and made subtle changes to the ending cutscenes, intensifying the overall sense of unease. While Leon's mission to rescue Ashley was a triumph, a chilling scene unfolds as they escape on a jet ski. Wesker, in conversation with Ada, reveals his involvement in planning a "new world order" that will result in the loss of billions of lives.
1 Resident Evil 3 (1999)
The game concludes in a chilling manner, but the impact continues to linger. Once the credits roll, players are enthralled by a gentle melody accompanying images of the villagers prior to their infection with the Plagas. Witnessing them engage in everyday activities such as singing, teaching, and carrying out their roles as ordinary citizens, a pang of guilt may permeate one's conscience for having willingly terminated their lives. This infusion of realism adds a poignant touch to the overall experience.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Platform(s): Dreamcast, Nintendo GameCube, PC, PS1
Released: November 10, 1999
Developer(s): Capcom
Time to Beat: 7 Hours
The Raccoon City incident is the most renowned event in the Resident Evil story, integral to the overall plot. As the T-virus ravages the city, Umbrella dispatches their Nemesis to eliminate any remaining Stars members who pose a threat to their sinister activities. Fortunately, Jill Valentine triumphs over the formidable creature and escapes via helicopter, accompanied by her newfound ally Carlos.
Fans witness a nuclear missile hurtling towards Raccoon City in a chilling encounter. The ensuing devastation obliterates the entire area, leaving behind an eerie and haunting scene. The impact is further intensified by the abrupt cessation of music and the screen abruptly turning white upon impact. The Resident Evil 3 finale aptly captures the immense sorrow and sheer terror of the catastrophic Raccoon City Incident, serving as a sobering reminder of the countless innocent lives lost in Umbrella Corporation's twisted experiments.