Resident Evil Requiem (also known as Resident Evil 9) launched on February 27, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2.
It is the ninth mainline entry in Capcom's long-running survival horror series.
Story and Protagonists
The game features a dual-protagonist structure: returning fan-favorite
Leon S. Kennedy alongside a new lead, Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst investigating mysterious deaths tied to Raccoon City survivors.
Set in late 2026 (nearly 30 years after the original outbreak), it reconnects with the franchise's origins while blending tense survival horror with explosive action.
Reviewers praise the character development, especially Grace's arc from introverted bookworm to capable survivor, and how the story honors the series' legacy with schlocky, sentimental, and lore-heavy moments.
Some critics note the narrative feels a bit safe or undercooked in places, with occasional pacing issues, but most call it a strong celebration of 30 years of Resident Evil.
Gameplay
Requiem smartly alternates between the two protagonists, creating a dynamic experience that mixes:
- Classic-style survival horror (limited resources, tense exploration, atmospheric dread — especially strong in Grace's sections)
- Modern third-person action (precise gunplay, brutal melee, over-the-top boss fights — more prominent with Leon)
It amps up the gore significantly and introduces smarter, more aggressive "semi-aware" zombies and beastly bosses. Combat feels weighty and satisfying, with excellent level design and resource management.
The game is described as concise and "moreish" rather than overly long, though some wish for more side content (e.g., a Mercenaries-style mode is missing).
Pacing starts heavy on frights before shifting toward action in the back half, which divides opinions — some love the balance, others find it lopsided or front-loaded.
Visually and technically, it runs on the RE Engine with next-gen polish: stunning next-generation presentation, detailed environments, and intense audiovisual design that heightens the scares.
Critical and User Reception
- Metacritic: Around 88-89 (Generally Favorable) across platforms, with some platform variations (higher on Xbox/Switch 2 in limited reviews).
It's widely called one of the best Resident Evil entries in years — a "masterclass in refinement," "Resident Evil at its finest," and a strong Game of the Year contender.
- Notable Scores:
- TMI 9.8/10 RE9 really took me back to the feeling of the first resident evil with amazing graphics highly recommended you may have nightmares.
- IGN: 9/10 — Praises the "highly infectious new mutation" of splicing horror strains, return of a legend, new likable lead, and escalated gore.
- Game Informer: 9.8/10 — "A tour de force of gameplay."
- The Jimquisition: 9/10 — "Best entry since Resident Evil 4."
- Others range from 7/10 (criticizing identity crisis or weaker horror in spots) to perfect 10s or 5/5s.
- User Scores: Extremely high — 9.5 on Metacritic (joint-highest or near the top of all time, alongside games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33), with "Universal Acclaim." Steam is "Overwhelmingly Positive." Fans love the blend of scares and action, calling it peak Resident Evil fun.
Sales have been massive: It reportedly hit millions quickly (5+ million in days, over 6 million shortly after), making it one of the fastest-selling in the series.
A story expansion is in development, and a new minigame arrives in May 2026. Capcom also added a popular photo mode post-launch.
Common Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent balance (or ambitious mix) of classic survival horror and modern action.
- Memorable bosses, intense atmosphere, improved zombies, and strong combat.
- Great characters and a lore-rich story that feels like a victory lap for the franchise.
- Polished presentation and replayable tension.
Cons (from more mixed reviews):
- Pacing shifts between terror and action can feel uneven.
- Limited side content.
- Some feel it plays it safe or has an "identity crisis" rather than innovating wildly forward.
- Story elements that don't fully land for everyone.
Overall, Resident Evil Requiem is a critical and commercial success that many consider among the series' highlights — especially if you enjoy both the tense, resource-scarce horror of earlier games and the stylish action of RE4 onward.
It's short, scary, bloody, and highly replayable for most players.
If you're a fan of the series, it's a safe buy. Newcomers to survival horror might find the scares intense but rewarding.
Have you played it yet, or are you waiting for a sale?
