Capcom's upcoming Resident Evil: Requiem aims to deliver a compelling experience for fans of both the series' action-oriented and survival horror roots. Based on a four-hour preview, the ninth mainline installment introduces a dual-protagonist system with distinct gameplay styles, reminiscent of the original Resident Evil but far more pronounced. Will this bold approach pay off, or will it alienate fans craving a purely terrifying or action-packed experience? Let's delve into what makes Requiem a potentially groundbreaking addition to the franchise.

Leon's Action-Packed Arsenal vs. Grace's Stealthy Scares

Players can choose between Leon S. Kennedy, a series mainstay known for his combat prowess, and Grace, a new character who favors stealth and resourcefulness. Leon's gameplay segments lean towards action, echoing Resident Evil 4, 5, and 6. He enters situations armed with weapons like a hatchet for targeted limb dismemberment, which adds a strategic layer to combat.

One standout encounter involves a chainsaw-wielding zombie, demanding quick reflexes and tactical maneuvering to disarm the foe and claim the weapon. The hatchet can even be used to parry attacks, if players can master the timing. “Leon faces off against a chainsaw-wielding doctor zombie,” Engadget reports. “Best cut that arm off.”

Grace's segments, conversely, emphasize tension and vulnerability, drawing inspiration from Resident Evil 7. Players will need to rely on hiding, conserving ammo, and learning from their mistakes. Unlike Leon, Grace must strategically exploit zombie behaviors to survive. These scenarios require patience and observation, reminiscent of classic survival horror.

Crafting, Quirky Zombies, and a Campy Villain

A unique crafting system, centered around infected blood, is another key element of Requiem. Grace utilizes a blood injector to create first-aid shots, explosive blood, and ammunition by combining blood samples with scraps and herbs. Analyzing different blood types unlocks further crafting options, adding a puzzle-solving element to resource management.

Requiem introduces a dose of dark humor through its zombie design. Zombies exhibit remnants of their pre-transformation personalities, influencing their behavior. For example, a chef zombie will only chase players within his kitchen, while a bandaged IV zombie reacts aggressively to noise. Such moments offer brief respites from the intense horror, akin to the Dead Rising series.

Capcom is also introducing a pulpy villain with Dr. Gideon, a former Umbrella virologist who is dressed like a snake. According to Capcom’s recent Resident Evil showcase, infected blood plays a significant role in Requiem, impacting both Leon’s mysterious ailment and the circumstances surrounding Grace’s mother's death.

"The game's success hinges on its ability to seamlessly blend action and survival horror elements."

— Sarah Kim, Automatica Press

Resident Evil: Requiem is slated for release on February 27, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game's success hinges on its ability to seamlessly blend action and survival horror elements. If Capcom can strike the right balance, Requiem could become a standout title in the Resident Evil canon, appealing to a broad spectrum of fans while pushing the series in innovative directions. The dual gameplay styles and strategic combat promise a refreshing experience. Whether or not Requiem will deliver on its promises remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising.