During the recent Summer Game Fest, fans were treated to the first look at “Resident Evil Requiem,” also referred to as Resident Evil 9. This marks the first mainline entry in the series since “Resident Evil Village” debuted in 2021. The anticipation surrounding the game has been heightened by rumors that it will feature iconic character Leon Kennedy. The trailer introduced a new character, Grace Ashcroft, an FBI agent with connections to the notorious Raccoon City, setting the stage for returning themes and storylines central to the franchise.
The character name Ashcroft may resonate with ardent fans of “Resident Evil.” Grace is the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft, a survivor from the online game “Resident Evil Outbreak” on the PS2. Alyssa, who was a journalist trapped in Raccoon City during the crisis depicted in “Resident Evil 2,” provides a nostalgic tie to the series’ origins. In the trailer, Grace is depicted visiting the Remwood Hotel, a significant location where her mother met her demise. This personal narrative promises to blend old lore with new elements, paving the way for an engaging storyline.
In the trailer, remnants of destroyed Raccoon City are showcased, indicating a return to the series’ foundational setting. Leon Kennedy’s return is significant for the franchise, as he has been featured in some of its most acclaimed titles. His journey began as a rookie cop in “Resident Evil 2,” where the game balanced rich storytelling with enhanced monster design and immersive level exploration. This established a fan-favorite character, whose involvement has made substantial contributions to the series’ evolution over the years.
Leon also appeared in “Resident Evil 4,” which revolutionized gameplay by introducing an over-the-shoulder perspective, departing from the franchise’s earlier static camera styles. Though “Resident Evil 6” somewhat deviated from the survival horror essence, featuring Leon as one of multiple protagonists, it didn’t meet the high expectations set by its predecessors. However, the recent remakes of “Resident Evil 2” and “Resident Evil 4” have rekindled affection for the franchise, showcasing modern graphics and gameplay mechanics while honoring the original experiences.
“Resident Evil Requiem” is slated for release on February 27, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series consoles, igniting excitement among fans eager to explore the sequel. Rumors abound regarding additional gameplay mechanics and narrative depth that could advance the series while retaining it’s beloved horror roots. There’s also an ongoing sale by Capcom for older Resident Evil titles, which could serve as an opportunity for players to reconnect with the series before diving into the latest installment.
Overall, the debut of “Resident Evil Requiem” presents a thrilling prospect for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With its focus on character development, a return to Raccoon City, and the inclusion of iconic figures like Leon Kennedy, the game promises to provide a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation for the beloved survival horror franchise. As the release date approaches, excitement builds for what new horrors and revelations await in this next chapter of the Resident Evil saga.
