The Resident Evil lore you need to know before playing Requiem
Polygon
by Giovanni ColantonioFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Resident Evil is a gaming saga known for its intricate and often confusing lore, making it essential for players to brush up before diving into complex entries like *Requiem*. The series spans decades, with storylines that have evolved from simple haunted house tales into elaborate narratives filled with evil corporations, bio-terrorism, and military conspiracies. With each game adding new layers of depth, the universe has become a labyrinth of interconnected characters, organizations, and events. For newcomers or casual players, this complexity can be overwhelming, but understanding key elements of the lore is crucial to fully appreciate *Requiem*, which builds on decades of storytelling.
The series began with straightforward survival horror themes, such as zombies and isolated settings, but quickly expanded into a broader narrative. Early games introduced the umbrella Corporation, a recurring antagonist tied to the creation of deadly viruses like the T-virus, which turns humans into zombies. Over time, the lore delved into bio-terrorism, government cover-ups, and the existence of secret facilities like the infamous Arklay Laboratory. Later entries, such as *Resident Evil 4* and *Resident Evil 7*, added new dimensions to the story by exploring the origins of the viruses, introducing fan-favorite characters like Leon Kennedy and Jill Valentine, and revealing deeper connections between the Corporation and global military factions.
Understanding this lore matters for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in *Requiem*. While the game is designed to stand on its own, it draws heavily from earlier installments, making prior knowledge of
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Originally published on Polygon on 2/26/2026