The latest preview of Resident Evil Requiem confirms what many fans hoped: a triumphant return to the series’ action roots alongside a fresh, terrifying new layer of survival horror. Capcom’s upcoming title isn’t just another zombie shooter; it’s a deliberate blend of two distinct gameplay styles, embodied by the iconic Leon S. Kennedy and the newly introduced Grace Ashford. This isn’t simply about nostalgia; it’s about evolving the Resident Evil formula to deliver both cathartic power fantasies and genuine, nerve-wracking tension.
Two Sides of Survival
The game’s core concept revolves around alternating between Leon and Grace, each offering a drastically different experience. While Leon delivers the over-the-shoulder, action-packed gameplay reminiscent of Resident Evil 4 —complete with chainsaw executions and signature quips—Grace embodies a more vulnerable, puzzle-driven approach akin to the original Resident Evil. This isn’t a forced contrast, but a carefully calibrated system designed to maximize player engagement.
Grace’s sections emphasize resource management, stealth, and calculated risk-taking. Players must navigate tight corridors with limited ammunition, relying on crafting systems that utilize grotesque materials like zombie blood to create makeshift weapons. The tension isn’t just atmospheric; it’s mechanical. Unlike the often-criticized “escort mission” segments in previous titles, Grace is not helpless. Capcom has stressed that her character will grow in capability throughout the game, with upgrades such as reflex boosters improving her shaky aim.
A Cathartic Shift in Perspective
The transition to Leon provides a visceral release. Players will instantly recognize the familiar feeling of unloading a shotgun into hordes of undead, switching between first- and third-person perspectives to amplify either tension or pure action. The preview featured encounters with grotesque enemies, including a particularly horrifying mutant baby, all dispatched with Leon’s trademark efficiency.
This isn’t just fan service; it’s a strategic design choice. The game deliberately contrasts Grace’s methodical exploration with Leon’s explosive combat, creating a dynamic that keeps players constantly engaged. Capcom’s goal seems to be to immerse players in a cycle of vulnerability and empowerment, pushing them to the edge of desperation before unleashing them into a glorious rampage.
A Familiar Yet Innovative Setting
The hospital setting itself is a masterclass in environmental storytelling. The undead retain fragmented memories, patrolling the same routes they did in life, creating an eerie sense of routine amidst the chaos. This detail adds a layer of psychological horror, forcing players to exploit these predictable patterns to survive. The inclusion of classic Resident Evil mechanics, such as retrieving key items from save rooms and dealing with reanimated, deadlier zombies, further cements the game’s identity.
The developers have also reintroduced the tension of limited resources, making every bullet and crafted item feel precious. The preview showcased a particularly brutal encounter where Grace was forced to use her last bullet on a resilient zombie, highlighting the constant threat of scarcity.
The Verdict
Resident Evil Requiem appears to be a bold experiment that could revitalize the franchise. By seamlessly blending two distinct gameplay styles, Capcom is offering a unique experience that caters to both longtime fans and newcomers. If the full game delivers on the promise of this preview, it will be more than just a return to form – it will be a thrilling evolution of survival horror. The combination of Leon’s explosive action and Grace’s tense vulnerability is a compelling formula that could either sink or swim, but based on early impressions, Requiem is poised for a spectacular comeback.
