Which Resident Evil Is The Shortest? Unpacking the Campaigns

Which Resident Evil Is The Shortest? Unpacking the Campaigns

For many gamers, diving into the Resident Evil universe is an immersive experience. These survival horror classics are known for their intricate puzzles, terrifying monsters, and compelling narratives. But sometimes, you just want to get through the story without dedicating an entire weekend. So, the burning question for many casual fans and busy players is: Which Resident Evil game is the shortest?

Pinpointing the absolute shortest Resident Evil game can be a bit nuanced, as playtimes can vary wildly based on player skill, whether they're aiming for 100% completion, or if they're on a speedrun. However, when we talk about a typical, non-completionist playthrough for the average player, some titles consistently come out on top (or, in this case, bottom).

The Usual Suspects for Short Playtimes

Generally, the original games from the PlayStation era tend to have shorter campaigns compared to some of the more sprawling entries in the series, especially those with multiple character paths or extensive exploration.

Resident Evil (Original PlayStation & Remake)

The original Resident Evil on the PlayStation, and its acclaimed GameCube remake (later ported to other platforms), are often cited as being on the shorter side. A typical playthrough for a new player might clock in around 8 to 10 hours. This can be significantly shorter for experienced players or those who know the game inside and out, potentially getting it down to 4-5 hours.

The remake, while visually enhanced and with some added content, doesn't drastically increase the core playtime for a single playthrough. The mansion is still the primary focus, and the puzzles, while sometimes rearranged, are familiar.

Resident Evil 2 (Original PlayStation & Remake)

The original Resident Evil 2 had two distinct campaigns (Leon and Claire), each offering a roughly 8 to 12-hour experience. Playing through both would effectively double that. The excellent 2019 remake also follows a similar structure. For a single playthrough (either Leon or Claire's story), you're looking at around 7 to 9 hours for a typical run. Again, speedrunners can complete these much faster.

Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (Original PlayStation & Remake)

The original Resident Evil 3: Nemesis was designed to be a bit more action-oriented and linear than its predecessors. A standard playthrough often falls within the 6 to 8-hour range. The 2020 remake, however, is noticeably shorter. Due to its more linear design and condensed narrative, the remake can often be completed in as little as 5 to 7 hours.

The Undisputed Champion of Brevity?

While the original RE3 was already quite concise, the 2020 remake of Resident Evil 3 is arguably the shortest mainline Resident Evil game for a standard playthrough.

"For a typical, casual playthrough, Resident Evil 3 (2020) is likely the shortest entry in the main series. Its focus on action and a more streamlined narrative makes it a quicker experience compared to the survival-focused, puzzle-heavy original games or the more expansive later titles."

Other contenders for shorter playtimes, depending on how you define "mainline," might include spin-offs or arcade-style entries, but for the core numbered series, RE3 Remake generally takes the crown for its speed.

What About Other Resident Evil Games?

It's worth mentioning that many other Resident Evil games can be quite lengthy:

• Resident Evil 4 (Original & Remake): Both versions are substantial, often taking 10-15 hours for a first playthrough, with the remake potentially longer due to its expanded content.
• Resident Evil 5 & 6: These games, especially when played in co-op, can be quite long, with campaigns often exceeding 15-20 hours, especially if you're going for collectibles or higher difficulties.
• Resident Evil 7: Biohazard & Resident Evil Village: These modern entries offer immersive, lengthy experiences, typically in the 10-15 hour range for a first playthrough, with plenty to discover.

FAQ Section

How long does it typically take to beat Resident Evil 3 (2020)?

For most players, a single playthrough of the Resident Evil 3 remake, without rushing or getting stuck on puzzles, will take approximately 5 to 7 hours.

Why are the older Resident Evil games sometimes shorter than the newer ones?

The older games, particularly those on the PlayStation, had technical limitations and design philosophies that favored more contained experiences. The newer games often feature more detailed environments, longer cutscenes, and more complex gameplay mechanics, leading to longer overall playtimes.

Does playing on an easier difficulty affect the playtime?

Yes, playing on an easier difficulty can shorten your playtime. Enemies are weaker and less frequent, resources are more abundant, and you'll likely die less often, allowing you to progress through the game more quickly.

Are there any Resident Evil games that are significantly longer than others?

Absolutely. Games like Resident Evil 6, with its multiple protagonists and extensive campaign structure, and even the more recent Resident Evil Village with its exploration and side activities, can easily push past the 15-hour mark for a first-time player.