Capcom has shared new information on Resident Evil Requiem during its latest Resident Evil Showcase, confirming gameplay details, story hints, and platform support ahead of the game’s release next year. The presentation was led by director Koshi Nakanishi, who explained how the game is built around two playable characters with distinct playstyles.
The showcase confirmed that Leon Kennedy is the second playable character, joining newcomer Grace. Nakanishi addressed recent rumors by noting that Leon’s role had always been planned. According to him, Capcom wanted to avoid centering the entire experience on Leon from a horror-only perspective, given the character’s long history as a capable and composed survivor.
As a result, Resident Evil Requiem is designed to offer different gameplay approaches depending on the character. Grace’s sections focus on slower pacing, limited resources, and tension-driven encounters, similar to Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil VII. Leon’s gameplay leans more toward action, with heavier combat and faster encounters inspired by Resident Evil 4.
Nakanishi explained that switching between the two characters is meant to balance tension and relief throughout the game. While both characters exist within the survival horror framework, their segments are structured to create variation in pacing and tone.
The presentation also included small story-related hints, though Capcom avoided revealing major plot points. One location, Elpis, was highlighted as being important to the game’s setting and narrative placement within the series timeline.
Several gameplay updates were shown during the showcase. Zombies will now retain certain behaviors from their previous lives, such as continuing routine tasks even after turning undead. Crafting systems have also been expanded, with noticeable differences between the two characters.
Leon relies on a wide range of weapons and melee attacks to deal with enemies. Grace, on the other hand, is encouraged to use stealth and crafted tools. If she manages to defeat a zombie, she can collect blood samples to create Specialized Injectors. One example shown causes enemies to explode after injection.
Capcom also highlighted differences between the game’s easier difficulty settings and standard mode before moving on to collaborations. One partnership with Porsche introduces a custom in-game car for Leon, which has also been produced as a real-world vehicle. Another collaboration with watchmaker Hamilton will release two limited-edition watches inspired by Grace and Leon, with 1,000 units of each available at launch.
Resident Evil Requiem is set to release on February 27, 2026. Capcom confirmed support for GeForce NOW, along with NVIDIA DLSS 4 and Multi-Frame Generation. Pre-order and deluxe editions include additional costumes for both characters.
The showcase concluded with announcements of upcoming merchandise, including character figures planned for Fall 2026, a themed Nintendo Switch 2 controller, Amiibo, and a concert tour titled Resident Evil: Symphony of Legacy, scheduled to take place across Japan, North America, and Europe.
