Resident Evil Requiem is just around the corner, set to hit shelves on February 27. Fans are buzzing, especially after the exciting Game Awards trailer revealed that Leon Kennedy is back in action. The recent Resident Evil Showcase shed more light on the game, with director Koshi Nakanishi discussing the gameplay styles of the two main characters: Leon and Grace Ashcroft.
Capcom is eager to reintroduce Leon, especially after the success of the Resident Evil 4 Remake. However, his skills as an action hero could make a traditional horror game tricky. Enter Grace, who brings a fresh perspective. Unlike Leon, Grace is a novice, making her a more vulnerable character. Her gameplay feels reminiscent of classic Resident Evil titles like 2 and 7.
Leon’s gameplay features familiar mechanics, like parrying with a new hatchet instead of a knife. This means he can take weapons from defeated enemies. In the showcase, we see him parry a chainsaw and quickly turn it against its wielder. This brings a strategic element to combat, allowing players to target zombie weaknesses, like knees, to deliver a devastating hatchet blow.
On the other hand, Grace’s approach is slower and more cautious. Her ammo is limited, making combat feel risky. She wields a powerful revolver called “Requiem,” which ties into the game’s title. A new crafting system lets her use zombie blood to create items, adding an intriguing layer of strategy. In a surprising twist, we see her use one concoction to make a zombie explode—definitely not for the faint-hearted!
The showcase also emphasized the choice of playing in first- or third-person perspectives. Grace’s journey often switches to first-person, while Leon remains in third-person. If you’re looking for a less intense experience, there’s a Casual difficulty with aim assist, alongside a Classic mode that requires finding ink ribbons to save your game as Grace.
Beyond gameplay, the showcase introduced collaborations with brands like Porsche and Hamilton, adding some unique collectibles for fans. Additionally, the game will be compatible with GeForce NOW and has an upcoming worldwide concert series planned.
As excitement builds, it’s clear Resident Evil Requiem aims to blend horror and action in a way that’s fresh and engaging. With Leon and Grace, players can expect two very different experiences that pay homage to the series’ roots while pushing the boundaries of gameplay.
For more insights, you can check out the full showcase here.
