Resident Evil Requiem Revealed Featuring Leon Kennedy and Raccoon City

After a surprising tease during Summer Game Fest, Capcom officially revealed Resident Evil Requiem, also known as Resident Evil 9. This marks the first mainline installment since Resident Evil Village in 2021, reigniting anticipation among fans of the franchise.

The trailer introduces Grace Ashcroft, an FBI agent with ties to Raccoon City, a location central to the series' lore. Grace is notably the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft, a survivor from the online-only Resident Evil Outbreak on PS2, linking the new game to the franchise’s rich history.

The narrative appears to revisit the ruins of Raccoon City, suggesting a return to the series’ origins. This setting promises a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, as players explore the aftermath of past events through Grace’s investigation.

A major highlight is the rumored return of Leon Kennedy, a beloved character who first appeared as a rookie cop in Resident Evil 2. Leon’s presence has historically elevated the series, especially with his starring role in Resident Evil 4, which revolutionized gameplay with an over-the-shoulder perspective.

Leon’s journey has had ups and downs, including his role in Resident Evil 6, which diverged from survival horror elements. However, recent remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 4 have been critically acclaimed, blending modern graphics and gameplay with classic horror themes.

Resident Evil Requiem is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Fans eager to prepare can take advantage of Capcom’s ongoing sale, which includes nearly all previous titles, from Village to the acclaimed remakes.

This new chapter promises to blend legacy characters and locations with fresh narratives and next-gen technology, potentially setting a new standard for survival horror. For developers and storytellers, it’s a compelling case study in balancing fan expectations with innovation.