Do I need to see Ring 1 or 2 to understand what's going on?

It would be a good idea to do so. While this movie lays it out in broad strokes, it's intentionally vague to fill the gaps and explain things. The other 2 will give more depth and backstory to this movie and it will make more sense and you'll see a lot more into it. But like I said, they give you the key parts.


"He came home." - Dr. Sam Loomis from the original HalloweeN

The movie was made in such a way that you can see it without seeing the first two. However if you watch the first two, you'll be able to make connections between them. They give you all the information about Samara again in this one though.

Just dont watch any of these.

I don't think you need to see number 2 at all. But the first film certainly sets the context.

No. It doesn't matter what you do, you won't be able to understand this pos.
I believe not even the screenwriters and the director can explain it.

Just going to chime in with the people actually answering OP's question that seeing the first two is helpful, but not necessary.