In Resident Evil 2, exploring the Raccoon City Police Department (RPD) is filled with tension, mystery, and locked containers that reward the curious and persistent. One such container is the 3F locker, tucked away in a quiet corner of the upper floors of the station. While it may seem optional at first glance, unlocking the 3F locker provides useful supplies that can make a significant difference in survival especially during a hardcore playthrough. Whether you’re playing as Leon or Claire, this small locker hides important resources, and knowing the correct locker code ahead of time can help you save time and avoid unnecessary backtracking.
Location of the 3F Locker in Resident Evil 2
Finding the Locker
The 3F locker is located on the third floor of the Raccoon City Police Department, in a narrow hallway that leads toward the West Storage Room. It’s easily missed by players who are rushing through the upper floors or focused solely on major objectives. The locker is situated beside a flight of stairs that connects the second and third floors, making it relatively accessible after obtaining the Spade Key early in the game.
Reaching the Area Safely
Because this hallway is often close to areas patrolled by zombies and, later on, Mr. X (Tyrant), it’s important to proceed with caution. Clear the nearby rooms or be prepared to sprint in and out quickly. If you’re playing on Hardcore difficulty, every bullet counts, so opening lockers like this one becomes even more important.
What Is Inside the 3F Locker?
Rewards Based on Character Campaign
The contents of the 3F locker vary depending on whether you’re playing as Leon or Claire. While not game-breaking, the items inside are highly useful, especially when you’re low on ammo or healing supplies.
- Leon’s Campaign: The locker usually contains shotgun shells.
- Claire’s Campaign: The locker will typically hold submachine gun ammo.
This difference is based on the character’s default weapons. Since Leon uses a shotgun and Claire uses a submachine gun (after acquiring the SMG), the game tries to supply you with relevant ammo to match your loadout progression.
3F Locker Code in RE2 Remake
The Correct Locker Code
The locker code for the 3F locker in Resident Evil 2 Remake is:
DCM
Simply approach the locker, interact with it, and enter the letters D, C, and M using the dial. Once entered correctly, the locker will click open and reveal its contents. There’s no need for a special key or item to access this locker just the correct combination.
Where to Find the Clue
Technically, you can enter the code without ever finding the hint, but the game does include a clue to the locker code. You can find this hint in the form of a film roll labeled 3F Locker. This film can be developed in the Dark Room on the first floor (near the Safety Deposit Room), which reveals the DCM code. Finding and developing the film is entirely optional, but adds to the immersive puzzle-solving aspect of the game.
Benefits of Opening the Locker
Resource Management
Ammo is always at a premium in Resident Evil 2, especially during higher difficulty settings. Opening lockers like the one on 3F grants you a much-needed buffer during intense enemy encounters. Even if it’s just a few shells or rounds, those bullets could mean the difference between life and death when facing a Licker or being cornered by zombies in tight hallways.
Efficiency During Speedruns
For speedrunners and time-conscious players trying to earn an S+ rank, knowing locker codes ahead of time helps cut down unnecessary time. Every second counts in a speedrun, and typing in the correct locker code immediately saves the time of searching for the film roll, developing it, and then returning upstairs.
Inventory Optimization
Since you’ll often be juggling limited inventory space, knowing what to expect from locked containers lets you plan ahead. If you’re already full on shotgun shells or submachine gun ammo, you can temporarily skip opening the locker or free up space beforehand to carry the items efficiently.
Additional Lockers with Codes in RE2
Locker in the Shower Room (2F)
While discussing locker codes, it’s worth mentioning that there is another locker on the second floor inside the Shower Room. The code for this locker is:
CAP
Much like the 3F locker, the items inside vary based on the character you’re playing. This locker often contains grenades or ammo, making it another high-priority stop during your early game exploration.
Safe in the Waiting Room (2F)
Though not technically a locker, the safe in the Waiting Room is also worth noting. It holds weapon upgrades that are incredibly useful. The code for the safe is:
Left 6, Right 2, Left 11
This safe typically contains a muzzle brake for Leon or a high-capacity magazine for Claire, depending on the campaign you’re playing.
Locker Codes and Game Versions
Does the Code Change in Different Playthroughs?
Some players wonder if the locker code changes depending on the difficulty or campaign type. Fortunately, the code for the 3F locker remains the same across all playthroughs. Whether you’re playing Standard, Hardcore, New Game, or Second Run, the DCM code consistently unlocks the locker. This makes memorizing the code worthwhile, especially for repeat players.
Console and Platform Differences
There are no differences in locker codes between different platforms. Whether you’re playing on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC, the DCM code for the 3F locker stays the same. All players have equal access to the secrets and rewards hidden throughout the RPD building.
Tips for Exploring RPD and Unlocking Lockers
- Explore thoroughly: Always search each room carefully. Lockers, safes, and drawers often contain valuable supplies.
- Develop film when available: Even if you know the locker code, developing film can sometimes lead to other clues or achievements.
- Backtrack when safe: Don’t risk getting cornered by Mr. X or zombies just to open a locker. Wait until it’s safe to explore.
- Mark cleared areas on your map: The in-game map automatically highlights unopened lockers or containers. Use this to track what you’ve missed.
Unlocking the 3F locker in Resident Evil 2 Remake may seem like a small task, but it plays a valuable role in resource management and survival. The DCM code is simple to remember, and the reward inside is always welcome, especially during the tougher moments of the campaign. Whether you’re playing as Leon or Claire, opening lockers like this one adds a layer of depth to the game’s exploration and rewards keen observation. Keep the code in mind, stay alert, and always prepare for whatever lurks around the next corner in the haunted halls of the RPD.