The advertising campaign for “Resident Evil Requiem” has heavily focused on nostalgia. Trailers teased the return of fan-favorite character Leon Kennedy to Raccoon City, where the series originated. In this ninth main installment, Capcom has honed its gameplay to near-perfection.
The game delivers bone-chilling scares and thrilling action sequences, but the combination of these elements can feel disjointed at times. While the adventure leans on familiar territory, it hesitates to explore new ground fully.
The storyline kicks off with Grace Ashcroft, a young FBI agent investigating mysterious deaths at a condemned hotel where she witnessed her mother’s murder years earlier. She crosses paths with the antagonist Victor Gideon, a former Umbrella scientist, as Leon tracks Gideon to uncover the origins of a mysterious illness.
The Rhodes Hill Chronic Care Center, reminiscent of classic “Resident Evil” settings, serves as a challenging backdrop for players. Grace navigates the center’s labyrinthine halls, solving puzzles and evading unique zombie threats, while Leon’s sections offer intense action reminiscent of past entries in the series.
As the game progresses, the Care Center stands out as a highlight, overshadowing later settings that feel somewhat derivative. A new location, the ruins of Raccoon City, injects freshness into the gameplay but may not surprise seasoned players.
“Resident Evil Requiem” prioritizes atmospheric environments and thrilling moments over a deep narrative. While the story revolves around a mysterious entity called Elpis, character development and emotional depth shine through Grace’s growth and Leon’s reflections on past traumas.
Despite some shortcomings, the game is a must-play for fans, striking a balance between nostalgia and innovation. “Resident Evil Requiem” launches on various platforms and is rated M for Mature audiences.