Capcom unveiled an extended look at Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth mainline entry in the iconic Resident Evil franchise, during Gamescom. This latest installment promises to deliver a haunting return to Raccoon City, years after its destruction in a desperate attempt to contain a viral outbreak. The four-minute story trailer showcased a dark, atmospheric narrative and introduced new gameplay elements, solidifying the series’ legacy as a cornerstone of the horror gaming genre.
The Resident Evil series, which began in the 1990s with its claustrophobic, tank-controlled horror in a eerie mansion, has undergone significant evolution over the decades. From its early zombie-focused roots to recent explorations of supernatural creatures like vampires and werewolves, the franchise has continually reinvented itself. Resident Evil Requiem builds on this legacy, blending the series’ signature tension with a fresh perspective on its storied setting.
Resident Evil Requiem's New Protagonist in a Familiar City
Set in the ruins of Raccoon City, Resident Evil Requiem introduces players to Grace, the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft, a character known to longtime fans of the series. Unlike previous speculations that fan-favorite Leon Kennedy might take center stage, Capcom opted for Grace as the protagonist. The decision was made to prioritize a character who embodies vulnerability and fear, qualities deemed essential for the game’s immersive horror experience. Leon, described as too seasoned and fearless, was considered less suitable for conveying the raw terror central to this new chapter.
The Gamescom trailer offers a glimpse into the game’s opening moments, which appear to serve as a prelude to the broader story. The sequence begins with Grace, a teenager engrossed in her computer, seemingly detached from her mother’s late return from work. The tension escalates when a mysterious phone call interrupts the scene, with an unknown voice asking for “Miss Ashcroft” before abruptly disconnecting. Moments later, the power in their apartment building fails, plunging the environment into darkness.
As Alyssa urges Grace to flee, the pair encounters a neighbor who falls victim to a shadowy, menacing figure. The attack leaves Grace visibly traumatized, setting the tone for the game’s psychological horror. The trailer culminates in a harrowing moment where Alyssa is assaulted by an unseen force, leaving her fate uncertain as the gameplay footage concludes. While the trailer remains deliberately vague, it effectively establishes a chilling atmosphere and hints at the dangers awaiting players in Raccoon City.
Watch the Resident Evil Requiem trailer below:
Resident Evil Requiem's Flexible Gameplay Perspectives
Resident Evil Requiem continues the series’ recent trend of offering first-person gameplay, a shift that began with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. However, in a nod to the franchise’s roots, Capcom has confirmed that players can seamlessly switch between first-person and third-person perspectives throughout the game. While the first-person view is the intended experience, emphasizing immersion and claustrophobic tension, the option for third-person gameplay provides flexibility for players who prefer a more traditional Resident Evil feel.
The trailer’s gameplay footage highlights the game’s polished visuals and atmospheric design, with dimly lit environments and unsettling soundscapes amplifying the sense of dread. Although specific gameplay mechanics were not fully detailed, the trailer suggests a focus on survival horror staples such as exploration, resource management, and encounters with deadly threats.
Hands-On Opportunities for Resident Evil Requiem at Upcoming Events
Attendees at Gamescom and PAX West will have the chance to experience Resident Evil Requiem firsthand through playable demos. These hands-on sessions are expected to provide further insight into the game’s mechanics and narrative, potentially allowing players to explore the opening sequence depicted in the trailer. The demos will likely offer a clearer picture of how Grace’s story unfolds and how the game balances its horror elements with its return to Raccoon City.
Resident Evil Requiem marks a bold step for the franchise, combining a new protagonist, a familiar yet reimagined setting, and flexible gameplay perspectives. By focusing on Grace, a character unburdened by the combat expertise of veterans like Leon Kennedy, Capcom aims to recapture the visceral fear that defined the series’ early days. The trailer’s unsettling tone and mysterious narrative suggest that Resident Evil Requiem will push the boundaries of the franchise while honoring its horror roots.
Resident Evil Requiem is set to release on February 27, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.