I liked both films immensely even though I never played the video games. The first film was suspenseful, a pretty good cast, and the plot was cool. I liked Rain's character and I enjoyed seeing Michelle as a zombie. But, I was disappointed when she was killed off. The creature effects and graphics for the 'Licker' was cool though. It had plenty of twists and turns.
I have to admit though I did like the second film just a bit more. The opening scene was action packed with Jill Valentine assessing the situation. Even the Cathedral scene was awesome with Alice blasting through on a motorcycle lol. I actually enjoyed Alice more in the second film. She was more of a powerhouse player than in the first film, she was trying to find her ground and recall who she was.
I also liked the city setting just a bit more than the underground lab. But, the lab setting was creepy for the fact that if they didn't get out in time they would be locked down there with zombies. The second film dropped an hydrogen bomb (I think it was) and devastated the whole city.
But, at the same time you have to give credit to the first film, which started it all. It introduced viewers to characters, villains, settings, etc. So, I think the first film definitely played a huge part putting Resident Evil on the map.
I felt more comfortable with the second film though. I already knew some of the characters, I knew the history. Compared to the first film where the viewer is just introduced to everything.