Capcom Explains Why Leon Isn’t the Lead in Resident Evil Requiem
▼ Summary
– Resident Evil Requiem aims to “push the series forward” with a focus on “addictive fear,” according to its director.
– Leon S. Kennedy may not appear due to his superhero persona clashing with the horror experience, though Capcom hasn’t ruled it out.
– Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst investigating her mother’s death, is the only confirmed playable character, designed as a more relatable, vulnerable protagonist.
– Grace’s character is introverted and easily scared, aligning with the player’s perspective, but uses wit and FBI training to navigate challenges.
– The game balances action and horror by offering both first-person and third-person perspectives, set in Raccoon City.
Capcom’s upcoming Resident Evil Requiem aims to redefine survival horror with a fresh protagonist, leaving fans wondering about Leon Kennedy’s absence. The developers emphasize creating an experience centered on “addictive fear,” something they believe a seasoned character like Leon might disrupt. While his return isn’t entirely off the table, the team has made it clear why he isn’t the lead this time around.
Grace Ashcroft, an FBI intelligence analyst, takes center stage as the confirmed playable character. Her background, investigating her mother’s mysterious death, ties into the events of Resident Evil Outbreak. Unlike franchise veterans, Grace isn’t a superhuman survivor. Producer Masachika Kawata describes her as relatable, relying on intelligence and FBI training rather than brute strength. “She’s cautious, even hesitant at times, which makes her reactions more authentic to players facing the game’s horrors,” Kawata explains.
Director Koshi Nakanishi reinforces this approach, noting Grace’s introverted nature heightens the fear factor. “She mirrors the player’s perspective, reacting realistically to threats while using logic to navigate danger,” he says. This deliberate shift contrasts sharply with Leon’s unshakable confidence, which Nakanishi argues doesn’t suit pure horror. “Leon wouldn’t flinch at a falling bucket, it’s hard to build tension around someone so unshakable,” he admits.
Still, Capcom’s vague responses about Leon’s potential involvement keep speculation alive. Given Raccoon City’s significance and Leon’s history there, his absence would be surprising. The studio’s focus on blending action and horror, offering both first- and third-person gameplay, leaves room for cameos or supporting roles, much like Chris Redfield’s appearances in recent titles.
For now, Resident Evil Requiem is betting on Grace’s vulnerability to deliver a chilling experience. Whether Leon steps into the shadows remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: Capcom isn’t afraid to shake up tradition.
(Source: POLYGON)
