During the latest Capcom Spotlight, fans got a closer look at Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth mainline entry in the iconic survival horror franchise. A new eight-minute developer diary revealed fresh insights from the game’s creative leads, including director Koshi Nakanishi, art director Tomonori Takano, and producers Masachika Kawata and Masato Kumazawa.

The team is aiming for the most immersive Resident Evil experience yet, focusing on a concept they’ve dubbed “addictive fear.” With a brand-new protagonist, a dual perspective system, and intense realism, Requiem is shaping up to be a bold step forward.

Meet Grace Ashcroft – A Different Kind of Hero

One of the biggest reveals is the introduction of Grace Ashcroft, an FBI intelligence analyst who leads the story. Unlike the hardened veterans of past games, Grace is naturally timid and easily frightened. But she’s no helpless victim — she’s well-trained, highly analytical, and slowly learns to stand her ground in the face of overwhelming terror.

This shift in character design puts players in the shoes of someone reacting to horror in real time. Her journey will mirror that of the audience — scared at first, but growing stronger. Developers even detailed how they’re emphasizing realism with visual cues like facial flushing, subtle eye movement, and natural hair physics—using a real wig for animation reference!

Gameplay: Dual Perspective and Realism at Its Core

Players can freely switch between first-person and third-person views, adding flexibility to how you experience the game. First-person brings the fear up close, while the third-person view provides a more action-oriented feel.

Realism is a big deal this time around. Every animation, detail, and piece of atmosphere is built to heighten immersion. Whether it’s Grace’s reactions or the environmental storytelling, the devs are pushing the RE Engine to its limits.

A Timeline Rooted in Legacy

Set 30 years after the Raccoon City Sterilization Missile, Resident Evil Requiem directly acknowledges the legacy of the original outbreak. This entry promises to pay tribute to long-standing lore, lost characters, and the events that defined the early series.

And the timing couldn’t be more symbolic: the game launches just before the series’ 30th anniversary in March 2026. Resident Evil Requiem is set to release on February 27, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.

Official website: https://www.residentevil.com/requiem/en-us/