Resident Evil Requiem Reveals Dual Protagonists for Action and Horror

Capcom hosted a hands-on demonstration for its upcoming game, Resident Evil Requiem, slated for release on February 27, 2026. The event took place at the Josun Palace in Seoul, where producer Masato Kumazawa and developers Alex Ng and Carrie Lam introduced the game’s features and engaged in a live Q&A session with fans.

During the presentation, Kumazawa confirmed the return of the beloved character Leon and detailed how the game employs a dual-protagonist structure. This design aims to balance elements of horror and action, with Grace portrayed as the series’ most timid character, while Leon takes on the role of a seasoned veteran. The narrative unfolds as the two characters investigate a series of mysterious deaths across the United States, intertwining their paths as the story progresses.

Kumazawa emphasized that Leon returns to the franchise ten years after the events of Resident Evil 6, now harboring a secret that will add depth to the unfolding narrative. He also elaborated on the game’s camera options, stating players can freely switch between first-person and third-person perspectives, a feature reminiscent of the transition techniques first introduced in Resident Evil Village.

Creature Design and Game Mechanics

A significant focus for the development team has been the design of the game’s creatures. Kumazawa highlighted a diverse range of enemies, from basic zombies to more complex adversaries, such as chainsaw-wielding zombies and creatures capable of traversing walls and ceilings. He expressed concern that revealing too much about these creatures could detract from player immersion, encouraging fans to discover them firsthand during gameplay.

Notably, the game revisits Raccoon City approximately thirty years after the events of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3. Kumazawa noted that exploring the city’s evolution over three decades was a key interest for long-time fans of the series. He also confirmed that Resident Evil Requiem will feature multiple difficulty settings to accommodate both newcomers and veterans of the horror genre, with easier levels providing assistance during firearms usage.

Kumazawa further mentioned that the character of Grace would feature distinct gameplay mechanics, emphasizing her character traits through elements such as urgent breathing and frightened movements. He stated, “Players will feel catharsis in Grace’s charm, seeing how the most timid character grows and takes a step forward from fear.” This character development contrasts with Leon’s experience and combat style, which leans heavily into action-oriented gameplay.

Gameplay Features and Future Insights

In response to questions about a potential VR version of Resident Evil Requiem, Kumazawa clarified that there will not be a standalone VR edition. Instead, players will enjoy the flexibility of switching perspectives within the main game. He teased upcoming showcases that will provide more details about Leon’s action sequences, promising an engaging gameplay experience designed for comfort and fluidity.

Regarding Grace’s gameplay style, Kumazawa explained that it will align more closely with the survival horror mechanics seen in RE2, where players must manage limited resources and navigate challenges without adopting a “kill ’em all” approach. He asserted that the game is crafted so that players unfamiliar with previous titles can still enjoy the experience fully. For those who have played earlier installments, he indicated that the narrative will reward their familiarity with the series’ lore.

Kumazawa revealed that the balance of gameplay between Grace and Leon is designed to be equal, with both characters contributing significantly to the storyline. He remarked, “Requiem feels like two games merged into one,” expressing satisfaction with how the two narratives are intertwined.

As the presentation concluded, Kumazawa expressed gratitude to the attendees and reiterated his commitment to ensuring the game’s timely release. He encouraged fans to look forward to Resident Evil Requiem, promising more information and gameplay reveals in the lead-up to the launch.