Resident Evil Requiem marks a significant return to the franchise’s original overarching narrative that began 30 years ago. Capcom announced that this new installment will revisit the iconic setting of Raccoon City and delve into the ongoing saga of the Umbrella Corporation, a storyline that had been less prominent in recent titles like Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village, which explored different parts of the Resident Evil universe.
The game is designed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Resident Evil series, with its release scheduled for February 27, 2026, exactly three decades after the original game’s launch in March 1996.
Producer Masato Kumazawa explained that while recent mainline games focused on the Winters family and their experiences, Resident Evil Requiem aims to reconnect with the roots of the series by continuing the story centered around Raccoon City and the secretive Umbrella Corporation. This return to the franchise’s origins is seen as the perfect tribute for the milestone anniversary.
In addition to revisiting Raccoon City, the game introduces a new protagonist, Grace Ashcroft, who has a personal connection to the city as the daughter of Alyssa from the Resident Evil Outbreak spin-off series. This choice brings a fresh perspective to the horror-focused narrative, distinguishing Grace from previous protagonists like Leon and Chris.
The developers have emphasized that Grace was selected because she embodies a relatable character who reacts with genuine fear, enhancing the horror experience. However, the game will also feature more action-oriented sequences, potentially allowing players to encounter familiar characters such as Leon, who remains a fan favorite.
Director Koshi Nakanishi mentioned that although Leon was considered as the main character, his personality was deemed less suitable for the horror gameplay style. Capcom also revealed that they experimented with making Resident Evil Requiem an open-world game with online features but ultimately decided to focus on what fans truly desire.
This return to the classic Resident Evil narrative promises to blend nostalgia with new elements, offering both longtime fans and newcomers an engaging experience rooted in the franchise’s rich history.
