Resident Evil 9: Everything About Requiem

Capcom has unveiled Resident Evil Requiem, marking the ninth mainline entry in the legendary survival horror franchise. This upcoming title promises to deliver bone-chilling scares and intense gameplay experiences that honor the series’ roots.

The game represents a bold new direction with a fresh protagonist while maintaining the classic survival horror elements that made the franchise iconic. Fans around the globe are counting down the days until they can experience Grace Ashcroft’s terrifying investigation.

Resident Evil 9 Release Date

Official Launch: February 27, 2026

Capcom officially confirmed the release date during Summer Game Fest, sending shockwaves through the gaming community. This strategic timing avoids competition from other major titles and gives players something massive to anticipate in early 2026.

The development team has been working tirelessly to ensure the game meets the high standards set by previous entries. For context, Resident Evil 8 release date was May 7, 2021, meaning fans waited nearly five years between mainline entries. Pre-orders are expected to open several months before launch with exclusive content for early supporters.

Key release details:

• Worldwide simultaneous launch across all platforms
• Pre-orders opening approximately 4-6 months before release
• Special editions and bonuses to be announced
• Digital and physical copies available at launch
• Day one patch likely for optimization

Resident Evil 9 Trailer Breakdown

The reveal trailer dropped four months ago and has already accumulated over 3.9 million views on YouTube. Every frame was crafted to build tension and mystery, showcasing the game’s dark atmosphere and terrifying creatures.

First Trailer Highlights:

• Duration: 3 minutes 39 seconds
• Featured environments: Dark hotel corridors and abandoned rooms
• Glimpses of new infected enemy types
• Introduction to Grace Ashcroft
• Haunting musical score building atmosphere
• Hidden details fans are still discovering

The second trailer released one month ago provided additional gameplay footage spanning 2 minutes and 35 seconds. Viewers got their first look at combat mechanics and puzzle-solving elements within the hotel environment.

Recent leaks suggest hidden details in both trailers that eagle-eyed fans continue to discover. Data miners have spotted potential Easter eggs connecting Requiem to previous games, fueling intense online discussions about narrative connections.

Meet Grace Ashcroft – The New FBI Agent Protagonist

Grace Ashcroft breaks new ground as the first FBI agent to lead a mainline Resident Evil game. Her character brings a fresh investigative perspective to the franchise that differs from previous military or civilian protagonists.

Character Background:

• Profession: FBI Special Agent
• Specialization: Criminal investigation and forensics
• Mission: Investigate mysterious deaths at remote hotel
• Personality: Tough, resourceful, analytical
• Skills: Combat training, evidence analysis, survival tactics

Interestingly, longtime fans may notice the surname Ashcroft, which appeared in Resident Evil Outbreak with the character Alyssa Ashcroft. Whether Grace has any connection to this previous character remains unconfirmed, but the shared name has sparked fan theories.

The story follows Grace’s assignment to investigate a series of unexplained deaths at what appears to be an ordinary hotel. Her expertise in criminal investigation makes her uniquely suited for uncovering the facility’s dark secrets.

Early previews describe Grace as a complex character with depth beyond typical action heroes. The developers have crafted detailed animations and professional voice acting to bring authenticity to her character, making players genuinely care about her survival.

Resident Evil 9 Gameplay Features

The 40-minute gameplay demo revealed at Gamescom showcased a perfect blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and strategic combat. Capcom has refined the RE Engine to deliver stunning visuals while maintaining smooth performance across all platforms.

Core Gameplay Mechanics:

• Resource management with limited ammunition
• Interconnected hotel environments encouraging exploration
• Environmental puzzles requiring observation skills
• Strategic combat with meaningful weapon choices
• Backtracking system using newly acquired items
• Save rooms providing safe havens
• Inventory management challenges
• Document collection for story progression
• Crafting system for ammunition and healing items

Combat feels weighty and impactful with each weapon having distinct handling characteristics. The sound design amplifies tension during encounters, making every shot count. Players must decide whether to fight or conserve resources for bigger threats.

The hotel setting offers multiple pathways and hidden areas that reward thorough exploration. Environmental storytelling through visual clues and documents lets players piece together what happened before Grace’s arrival.

Classic Survival Horror Returns

Capcom describes Requiem as a return to classic survival horror roots, prioritizing atmosphere and dread over constant action. The development team studied what made early Resident Evil games memorable and incorporated those lessons into modern gameplay.

This approach feels reminiscent of Resident Evil 7, which successfully rebooted the franchise by focusing on horror over action. After the mixed reception of Resident Evil 6’s action-heavy gameplay, Capcom learned that fans craved genuine scares and tension.

Classic Elements Making a Comeback:

• Limited ammunition creating vulnerability
• Claustrophobic level design increasing tension
• Puzzle-focused progression
• Save room sanctuaries with typewriters
• Environmental storytelling through documents
• Scarce healing items demanding careful planning
• Emphasis on exploration over combat
• Stalker enemy type creating persistent threat

The game ditches fixed camera angles but maintains that same spirit through narrow hallways and cramped rooms. Every corner could hide danger, and players never feel completely safe outside designated save areas.

Resource scarcity forces genuine strategic thinking about when to engage enemies versus when to flee. This design philosophy creates meaningful tension that action-heavy games cannot replicate.

Resident Evil 9 Steam and Platform Availability

Resident Evil Requiem launches simultaneously across multiple platforms, ensuring maximum accessibility for players worldwide. Each version has been optimized to take advantage of specific hardware capabilities.

Confirmed Platforms:

PC (Steam):

• Store page currently live with wishlist option
• Full ray tracing support
• Ultrawide monitor compatibility
• Customizable graphics settings
• Keyboard/mouse and controller support
• Steam Deck compatibility expected
• Workshop support for mods post-launch

PlayStation 5:

• DualSense haptic feedback integration
• Adaptive trigger tension during weapon use
• 4K resolution support with ray tracing
• Fast loading times via SSD
• 3D audio implementation
• Activity card integration

Xbox Series X/S:

• Performance mode (higher framerate)
• Quality mode (4K resolution)
• Quick Resume functionality
• Smart Delivery support
• Dolby Atmos audio
• Cloud gaming support

Nintendo Switch 2:

• Portable and docked play modes
• Optimized performance for handheld
• Touch screen inventory management
• HD rumble support
• Cross-save functionality

The Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility confirms Requiem will support Nintendo’s next-generation hardware, bringing survival horror to a portable format for the first time in the mainline series.

Resident Evil 9 Leon Kennedy Rumors

Recent leaks from a prominent Capcom insider suggest Leon Kennedy might appear in Requiem, though in what capacity remains unclear. The leaker claims the character was secretly featured in the reveal trailer, prompting fans to dissect every frame.

What We Know About Leon’s Role:

• Character possibly hidden in background of trailer scenes
• Likely a supporting role rather than co-protagonist
• May provide guidance through radio communications
• Could appear in cutscenes or flashback sequences
• Connects story to previous Resident Evil timeline
• Voice actor not officially confirmed

Leon’s appearances in Resident Evil 2, 4, and 6 made him one of the franchise’s most beloved characters. His recent starring role in the Resident Evil 4 remake proved his enduring popularity among fans.

His inclusion would satisfy longtime fans while potentially passing the torch to Grace as the new face of the series. The dynamic between an experienced agent like Leon and newcomer Grace could provide compelling narrative moments.

Capcom has neither confirmed nor denied these rumors, maintaining their typical secrecy around story details. Official character announcements usually come through trailers closer to release dates.

The Mysterious Hotel Setting

The game takes place primarily in a sprawling hotel complex that provides the perfect backdrop for survival horror. Hotels inherently feel isolated and contain countless rooms where danger could be lurking around every corner.

Hotel Environment Features:

• Victorian-era architecture mixed with modern renovations
• Multiple floors with distinct visual themes
• Grand ballrooms contrasting with dingy basements
• Connected underground facilities
• Flooded sections requiring careful navigation
• Damaged structures creating alternate pathways
• Hidden passages revealing facility secrets
• Rooftop areas with environmental hazards

Early gameplay footage shows ornate decorations juxtaposed against blood-stained walls and signs of violence. Each area maintains distinct visual identity while contributing to the overall oppressive atmosphere.

The hotel’s history connects directly to Umbrella Corporation’s dark past. Documents scattered throughout reveal how this location became ground zero for another deadly outbreak. Players gradually uncover the facility’s true purpose beyond being a simple hotel.

Environmental hazards add variety beyond combat encounters. Structural damage forces players to find creative solutions for progression, while atmospheric elements like flickering lights heighten tension.

Umbrella Corporation’s Final Chapter

Marketing materials emphasize this could be “The End of Umbrella’s Legacy for Good,” suggesting major narrative closure for the series’ primary antagonist. Capcom appears ready to conclude storylines spanning over two decades.

What This Means for the Franchise:

• Potential resolution of long-running plot threads
• Closure for survivors of previous outbreaks
• New threats may emerge post-Umbrella
• Shift in series direction after RE9
• Answers to lingering questions from earlier games
• Setup for potential Resident Evil 10

Umbrella Corporation has been the franchise’s central villain since the original 1996 game. Their bioweapon experiments caused countless outbreaks and untold suffering across multiple continents.

How Capcom handles this conclusion will significantly impact the series’ future direction. The narrative team faces high expectations from fans who have followed these storylines for years.

System Requirements for PC Players

Steam listings reveal the technical specifications needed to run Requiem on PC. The RE Engine demands capable hardware but remains optimized for various configurations.

Minimum Requirements (Estimated):

• OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 3 3300X
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti / AMD RX 570
• Storage: 60 GB available space
• DirectX: Version 12
• Internet: Required for initial activation

Recommended Requirements (Estimated):

• OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i7-10700 / AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti / AMD RX 6700 XT
• Storage: 60 GB SSD space
• DirectX: Version 12
• Internet: Broadband connection

Ultra Settings with Ray Tracing:

• Processor: Intel Core i9-12900K / AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
• Memory: 32 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 4070 / AMD RX 7800 XT
• Storage: NVMe SSD recommended

Ray tracing support requires compatible NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon RX graphics cards. Fast SSD installation significantly reduces loading times during gameplay transitions.

Resident Evil 9 Demo Details

No public demo has been officially announced yet. Capcom traditionally releases demos closer to launch dates, typically 1-3 months before the official release.

Demo Expectations:

• Likely 30-60 minute gameplay slice
• Introduction to Grace and basic mechanics
• Early hotel exploration section
• Tutorial for combat and inventory systems
• Possible PlayStation Plus early access
• Time-limited challenge mode
• Progress may transfer to full game

Previous Resident Evil demos for Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil 8 became viral sensations and significantly influenced purchasing decisions. The RE7 demo particularly gained legendary status with hidden secrets that kept players engaged for months.

Industry insiders and press members have played extended demo sessions at gaming conventions. Their overwhelmingly positive impressions describe tense moments, engaging mechanics, and impressive technical performance.

Expect the demo announcement to coincide with major gaming events like The Game Awards or PlayStation State of Play presentations in late 2025.

Pre-Order Bonuses and Special Editions

Pre-order information will likely surface 4-6 months before the February 2026 release. Capcom usually offers tiered editions providing increasing value for dedicated fans.

Expected Edition Types:

Standard Edition ($59.99 estimated):

• Base game access
• Possible early unlock weapon
• Digital art booklet
• Pre-order exclusive costume

Deluxe Edition ($79.99 estimated):

• Base game
• Season pass for DLC
• Exclusive costumes pack
• Bonus weapons pack
• Digital soundtrack
• Concept art gallery
• Grace’s FBI jacket cosmetic

Collector’s Edition ($199.99 estimated):

• Physical game copy
• Steelbook case
• Grace Ashcroft statue (10 inches)
• Physical art book (hardcover)
• Map of hotel location
• All Deluxe Edition digital content
• Replica FBI badge
• Certificate of authenticity

Retailer-exclusive bonuses may include unique weapons, costumes, or resource packs. Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Store typically offer platform-specific incentives.

Resident Evil 9 Characters Revealed So Far

While Capcom keeps most character details under wraps, several figures have been confirmed or heavily rumored for Requiem.

Confirmed Characters:

Grace Ashcroft (Protagonist):

• FBI Special Agent
• Lead investigator on the case
• First law enforcement protagonist in mainline series
• Voiced by professional motion capture actor

Rumored Characters:

Leon S. Kennedy:

• Potential supporting role
• May provide remote assistance
• Connection to previous outbreaks
• Fan-favorite returning character

Additional Cast:

• Hotel staff survivors
• Fellow FBI agents
• Umbrella Corporation operatives
• Mysterious antagonist (identity unknown)

The character roster appears more focused than recent entries. Resident Evil 5 featured extensive cast members, while Resident Evil 6 juggled multiple protagonists. Requiem returns to a more intimate character-driven narrative.

Capcom typically reveals additional characters through trailers leading up to launch. Expect major announcements at gaming showcases throughout 2025 and early 2026.

How Resident Evil 9 Compares to Previous Games

Understanding where Requiem fits in the franchise timeline helps set expectations for gameplay and narrative direction.

Resident Evil 7 (2017):

• First-person perspective revolution
• Return to survival horror roots
• Intimate, claustrophobic setting
• Smaller enemy variety
• VR support on PlayStation

Resident Evil 8 Village (2021):

• Continued first-person gameplay
• More action-oriented than RE7
• Larger, more open environments
• Multiple distinct areas
• Enhanced combat options

Resident Evil 9 Requiem (2026):

• Third-person perspective return
• Classic survival horror emphasis
• Interconnected hotel setting
• Resource scarcity focus
• New protagonist introduction

The game appears to blend elements from both Resident Evil 7’s horror focus and traditional third-person gameplay from earlier entries. This combination could satisfy fans of both classic and modern Resident Evil games.

Resident Evil 5 Remake Speculation

With Capcom’s successful remake strategy continuing through Resident Evil 4, fans wonder about future remakes. Resident Evil 5 remake speculation intensifies as the 2009 original remains divisive among fans.

Why RE5 Remake Makes Sense:

• Popular co-op gameplay modernization
• Address controversial story elements
• Updated graphics and mechanics
• Strong sales potential
• Continues remake momentum

However, Capcom appears focused on Requiem for now. Any Resident Evil 5 remake announcement likely comes after RE9’s release and reception.

Resident Evil Outbreak Connection

The hotel setting and FBI investigation theme share DNA with Resident Evil Outbreak’s approach to storytelling. That 2003 game featured multiple characters experiencing the same outbreak from different perspectives.

While Requiem focuses on single-player gameplay, the environmental storytelling approach mirrors Outbreak’s method of revealing narrative through exploration. Documents and environmental clues piece together events that occurred before player arrival.

Some fans theorize potential Resident Evil Outbreak remake or remaster could follow Requiem’s success, given renewed interest in classic survival horror gameplay.

What About Resident Evil 10?

While Resident Evil 10 remains distant, Capcom’s long-term planning suggests the franchise continues well beyond Requiem. The potential conclusion of Umbrella’s story in RE9 opens possibilities for new threats and directions.

Potential RE10 Directions:

• New global threat organization
• Different gameplay perspective
• Multiple protagonists return
• International outbreak scenarios
• Advanced bioweapon evolution

The franchise’s proven staying power across three decades ensures continuation regardless of how Requiem concludes specific storylines.

Connections to Previous Resident Evil Games

Requiem connects to the broader franchise timeline while remaining accessible to newcomers. References to past events reward long-time fans without alienating new players.

Timeline Connections:

• Takes place after Resident Evil Village
• References to Resident Evil 6 events
• Potential callbacks to Resident Evil 7
• Umbrella Corporation history from all games
• Documents explaining past outbreaks
• Visual callbacks to iconic locations
• Character mentions from previous entries

Easter eggs scattered throughout reward observant players familiar with series history. Environmental details reference memorable moments from classic games, showing respect for the franchise’s legacy.

New players can jump in without prior knowledge since the story stands alone. Optional files provide background information for those curious about the extensive lore spanning decades.

What Makes RE Engine Perfect for Horror

The RE Engine powers Requiem’s stunning visuals and immersive atmosphere. Capcom developed this proprietary technology specifically for photorealistic horror experiences.

Technical Advantages:

• Photorealistic character models and environments
• Advanced lighting with dynamic shadows
• Global illumination for natural-looking scenes
• Volumetric fog adding atmosphere
• Fluid character animations
• Detailed facial expressions
• Optimized performance across platforms
• Ray tracing capabilities
• Fast loading times

The lighting system creates dramatic shadows and eerie ambiance essential for horror. Volumetric effects add depth and mystery to environments, making players second-guess what lurks in darkness.

Audio implementation deserves special mention with 3D spatial sound design making every creak and groan feel directional. Wearing headphones transforms the experience into something truly terrifying where players can pinpoint threats by sound alone.

Community Expectations and Speculation

Online communities buzz with theories about Requiem’s story and gameplay. Reddit threads dissect every trailer frame while YouTube creators produce analysis videos examining leaked details.

Hot Discussion Topics:

• Leon Kennedy’s actual role in the story
• Connections to Resident Evil 4 remake
• Potential additional playable characters
• DLC content predictions
• Speedrun route possibilities
• Difficulty settings and unlockables
• Mercenaries mode return
• VR support speculation

Fan speculation builds hype but sometimes creates unrealistic expectations. Comparison debates with previous entries dominate discussions, with some fans hoping for more action while others want pure horror focus.

Social media engagement shows strong interest from both hardcore fans and casual observers. Capcom actively monitors community feedback, occasionally addressing concerns or clarifying misinformation.

The Future of Resident Evil After Requiem

Requiem potentially concludes major story arcs while opening new possibilities for the franchise. Capcom has expressed long-term commitment to Resident Evil’s future beyond RE9.

Post-Requiem Possibilities:

• Remakes of Code Veronica and potential RE5
• New protagonist-focused spin-offs
• VR experiences for PlayStation VR2
• Multiplayer-focused titles like Outbreak revival
• Mobile game expansions
• Film and television adaptations
• Resident Evil 10 with new threats

The franchise has room for experimental projects between mainline entries. Smaller-scale releases exploring different gameplay styles could attract new audiences while keeping momentum going.

Success or failure of Requiem will influence future survival horror development across the industry. Other studios watch Capcom’s choices carefully since Resident Evil often sets trends that competitors follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Resident Evil 9 release date?

February 27, 2026, with worldwide simultaneous launch across PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Who is the main character in Resident Evil Requiem?

Grace Ashcroft, an FBI special agent investigating mysterious deaths at a remote hotel facility.

Will Leon Kennedy be in Resident Evil 9?

Unconfirmed officially, but leaks suggest he may appear in a supporting role. Capcom has not confirmed his involvement.

What platforms will Resident Evil Requiem be available on?

PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2 at launch.

Is Resident Evil 9 the last game in the series?

No, but marketing suggests it may conclude the Umbrella Corporation storyline. Resident Evil 10 and beyond remain possibilities.

Will there be a Resident Evil 9 demo?

Not announced yet, but likely 1-3 months before the February 2026 release based on previous game patterns.

What engine does Resident Evil Requiem use?

The game runs on Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine, which powered RE7, RE8, and the RE2/RE3/RE4 remakes.

Is Resident Evil Requiem single-player only?

The main campaign focuses on single-player, though additional modes may be announced closer to launch.

Will the game have ray tracing support?

Yes, ray tracing will be available on compatible PC hardware and next-generation consoles.

What is the setting of Resident Evil 9?

A sprawling hotel complex with Victorian architecture that hides connections to Umbrella Corporation’s past.

How does RE9 compare to Resident Evil 7 and 8?

RE9 returns to third-person perspective with greater emphasis on classic survival horror mechanics compared to RE7 and RE8.

Where can I pre-order Resident Evil 9?

Pre-orders are expected to open on Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and major retailers 4-6 months before launch.

Final Thoughts on Resident Evil 9

Resident Evil Requiem launches February 27, 2026, bringing survival horror to new heights. Grace Ashcroft’s investigation into the hotel’s mysteries promises unforgettable scares combined with classic gameplay mechanics.

The game balances nostalgia for series veterans with accessibility for newcomers. Whether you’re a longtime fan who played Resident Evil 5, enjoyed Resident Evil 7’s horror renaissance, or are curious about the franchise, Requiem offers an entry point while potentially closing the book on Umbrella Corporation.

Multiple platform availability ensures everyone can experience the horror. The Steam version offers extensive customization while console versions provide optimized performance. The RE Engine delivers cutting-edge visuals that push current hardware capabilities while maintaining the atmospheric dread the series is known for.

This could be the definitive survival horror experience of 2026. Stay tuned for the upcoming demo announcement, additional character reveals, and pre-order details as we count down to one of gaming’s most anticipated releases. The legacy continues with Resident Evil Requiem.