Resident Evil Requiem Revealed Returning to Raccoon City

At Summer Game Fest, Capcom finally revealed Resident Evil Requiem, also known as Resident Evil 9, marking the first mainline installment since 2021's Resident Evil Village. This new chapter is stirring excitement by revisiting the iconic setting of Raccoon City and introducing fresh characters tied to the series' lore.

The trailer spotlights Grace Ashcroft, an FBI agent with mysterious connections to Raccoon City. Fans of the franchise will recognize the Ashcroft name from Alyssa Ashcroft, a survivor from Resident Evil Outbreak on the PS2. Grace is Alyssa's daughter, and her journey to the Remwood Hotel—where Alyssa was killed—adds a personal stake to the narrative.

The game also teases a return to the devastated Raccoon City, featuring landmarks like the police department from Resident Evil 2. This setting promises a nostalgic yet evolved survival horror experience, blending classic elements with modern gameplay.

Rumors suggest the return of Leon Kennedy, a beloved protagonist known for his debut as a rookie cop in Resident Evil 2 and his starring role in Resident Evil 4. Leon's presence often signals a strong narrative and gameplay focus, as seen in previous critically acclaimed titles.

Resident Evil Requiem is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. Ahead of its launch, Capcom is running a sale on earlier Resident Evil titles, including Village and the popular remakes, offering fans a chance to revisit the series' evolution.

Why Resident Evil Requiem Matters

Resident Evil Requiem represents a strategic blend of nostalgia and innovation. By revisiting Raccoon City and weaving in legacy characters and storylines, Capcom taps into the franchise's rich history while pushing forward with modern gameplay mechanics. This approach not only satisfies long-time fans but also attracts new players seeking immersive horror experiences.

The rumored return of Leon Kennedy is particularly significant. Leon's evolution from a rookie cop to a seasoned protagonist mirrors the series' growth, and his inclusion often signals a focus on strong storytelling and refined gameplay. Fans have high expectations given his pivotal roles in Resident Evil 2 and 4, both critically acclaimed for their narrative depth and innovative design.

Capcom's decision to release Requiem on next-gen platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X/S ensures the game can leverage advanced graphics and processing power, promising a visually stunning and technically sophisticated experience. The timing also positions the game to capitalize on the growing appetite for high-quality survival horror titles.

For developers and storytellers, Resident Evil Requiem offers a case study in balancing legacy content with innovation. It highlights the importance of character-driven narratives and immersive environments in maintaining franchise vitality over decades.