Capcom Reveals Why Leon Isn’t the Main Hero in Resident Evil Requiem – Meet the New Protagonist!
Capcom has finally addressed the big question on every Resident Evil fan’s mind: Why isn’t Leon S. Kennedy the star of the upcoming Resident Evil Requiem? If you’ve been following the buzz, you’ll know that the new game is aiming for a fresh take on survival horror, but the absence of such a beloved character is causing quite a stir. Here’s what we know so far—and what Capcom has to say about it.
- Capcom explains Leon’s absence as the main character in Resident Evil Requiem
- New protagonist Grace Ashcroft takes center stage
- Game focuses on “addictive fear” and a return to true horror roots
- Leon’s potential appearance not fully ruled out
- Release date: February 27, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X
Why isn’t Leon leading Resident Evil Requiem?
The upcoming Resident Evil Requiem is being pitched as a game that will “push the Resident Evil series forward,” according to its director. Capcom is all in on the idea of “addictive fear” for this next survival horror entry. But here’s the twist: Leon S. Kennedy, a clear fan favorite and the ultimate action hero, just isn’t a good fit for this new style—at least, according to the people making the game.
Producer Masachika Kawata and director Koshi Nakanishi shared their thoughts in a new behind-the-scenes video. According to Nakanishi, “We always thought about making Leon the protagonist, but making a horror game based around him is difficult. He wouldn’t jump at something like a bucket falling. No one wants to see Leon scared by every little thing. So he’s actually quite a bad match for horror.” That’s a pretty bold statement, and it sets the tone for what Capcom is aiming for with Requiem.
Meet Grace Ashcroft: The New Face of Survival Horror
The only confirmed playable character so far is Grace Ashcroft, an FBI intelligence analyst on a mission to uncover the truth about her mother’s death—an event possibly tied to Resident Evil Outbreak from 2003. Unlike previous Resident Evil leads, Grace isn’t a superhero. Kawata explains that she’s “more like a typical horror game protagonist,” relying on her wit and FBI training, but still showing vulnerability. “She can handle action and firearms, especially as she’s an FBI agent, but her movements can be timid or hesitant.”
Nakanishi adds, Grace is “introverted and easily scared,” making her a perfect lens for players to experience the game’s horrors. She also brings “calm deductive reasoning” to the table, giving her a unique edge in tense situations.
Is Leon Gone for Good?
So, does this mean Leon won’t show up at all in Resident Evil Requiem? Not necessarily. Capcom is being deliberately vague, and they haven’t fully ruled out a cameo or even a playable appearance by Leon—much like how Chris Redfield popped up in Resident Evil 7 and Village. Considering that Requiem returns to Raccoon City, many fans are holding out hope for an older, wiser Leon to make an appearance. After all, this is still Leon’s town.
What’s Next?
Resident Evil Requiem will try to strike a balance between action and horror, offering both first-person and third-person perspectives. The release is set for February 27, 2026, and it’s coming to PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X. Will Leon show up? We’ll have to wait and see—but for now, Grace Ashcroft is ready to step into the spotlight.
