They’re really not scary. The only one that’s somewhat decently spooky in terms of sheer horror is Resident Evil 7.
With Resident Evil 2 in particular, it starts out really intense but then mellows out gracefully as you get accustomed to the rules and settings. There is one specific stalker enemy that really put me under tremendous pressure during my initial playthrough. You’ll know it when you see it. Honestly, just jump in blind. You’ll love the ride.
If you’re still really paranoid, then one thing you could potentially try (in regards to any horror game in general) just so you can have your subconscious at ease is to always have a contingency plan. That way, even if things go south, you can always rely on the comfort zone you’ve created within. That, and taking things one step at a time. These games will punish you if you rush through them. In the words of DSP, the lord of all gamers himself,
“the stupid game is filled with beginner traps. Fuck you, Capcom.”
I think no matter how much you hate the Resident Evil 3 remake, both RE2 and 3 are kind of like a two-course meal. They complete each other. It feels unfinished if you only play RE3 and leave RE2 out or vice versa.
Honestly, so was the original Resident Evil 3 and so is the Resident Evil 2 Remake. These games are designed to be short. They’d overstay their welcome were they not.