If you thought GTA 6 is the only highly-anticipated title this year, think again. While Rockstar is making fans wait a little longer for their next, Capcom has started pulling back the curtain on Resident Evil Requiem. The studio recently offered fans the most detailed look yet at the next chapter in the long-running survival horror franchise. The game is set to launch globally on February 27, 2026, and aims to strike a careful balance between old-school tension and modern action. All of this was revealed in the latest Resident Evil Showcase. Read on to know more.
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During the showcase, director Koshi Nakanishi explained how the upcoming entry splits its focus between classic survival horror and high-intensity action. By placing players in control of series veteran Leon S. Kennedy and newcomer Grace Ashcroft, Capcom aims to recreate the fear, tension, and adrenaline that defined some of the franchise’s most iconic moments, while still pushing the formula forward with new mechanics and modern technology.
The showcase revealed that Grace’s sections are designed to tap directly into the claustrophobic terror seen in games like Resident Evil 7 and the Resident Evil 2. So, players controlling Grace will often find themselves trapped in tight, enclosed environments with very limited supplies.
On the other hand, Leon’s gameplay will lean heavily into survival action inspired by Resident Evil 4. He is more mobile, better armed, and capable of handling larger threats head-on. Leon will be seen carrying a tomahawk that can be used to parry enemy attacks, while his refined gunplay system will even allow players to wrest weapons away from enemies mid-fight, encouraging aggressive and confident play.
One of the most intriguing additions in Resident Evil Requiem appears to be a new “personality” system for enemies. Zombies will retain traces of their former lives, such as janitors endlessly cleaning corridors or other figures repeating familiar routines. Moreover, these behaviours will not just be visual details. Observant players will be able to use them strategically to sneak past enemies, set up ambushes, or conserve precious resources.
Capcom has also confirmed a crafting system that allows items to be created using blood taken from infected enemies, adding another layer of risk-reward decision-making. Players can also freely switch between first-person and third-person perspectives at any time, tailoring the experience to their preferred style.
On the technical side, PC players will benefit from DLSS 4 and ray tracing through a partnership with Nvidia. Capcom also revealed collaborations with Porsche for a custom in-game vehicle and Hamilton Watch for limited-edition timepieces. On Nintendo Switch 2, Resident Evil Requiem will launch alongside Resident Evil Village and Resident Evil 7 Gold Editions, with themed accessories and amiibo also planned.
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