The wait is finally over. Capcom’s Resident Evil Requiem launches today, marking a bold new chapter for the franchise that perfectly balances nostalgia with modern innovation. Set amidst the haunting ruins of a reimagined Raccoon City in 2026, this latest entry forces players to master a complex dual-protagonist system. Whether you are a veteran S.T.A.R.S. member or a newcomer facing the horror for the first time, our Resident Evil Requiem tips will help you navigate the nightmare that awaits Leon S. Kennedy and Grace Ashcroft.

1. Master the Duality: Shift Your Mindset Instantly

The most jarring hurdle in Resident Evil Requiem isn't the new "grey ghouls"—it's the mental whiplash of swapping protagonists. The game alternates between Leon Kennedy and newcomer Grace Ashcroft, and treating them the same is a one-way ticket to the Game Over screen.

Leon’s sections are designed as high-octane Raccoon City 2026 gameplay action. He is heavy, durable, and equipped with a military-grade arsenal. Conversely, Grace is an FBI analyst, not a soldier. Her segments in the Wrenwood Hotel and the ARK facility are survival horror in its purest form. When playing as Grace, you must suppress the urge to fight. Run, hide, and outsmart enemies rather than trying to blast through them. Successful players will learn to toggle their own tactical approach the moment the character perspective shifts.

2. Utilize Grace’s “Push” Mechanic for Critical Hits

While Grace lacks Leon's combat prowess, she isn't helpless. One of the most vital Resident Evil Requiem survival tips is mastering her unique "Push" ability. Because her firearms deal significantly less damage, ammo conservation is critical.

Instead of unloading a full clip into a zombie, shoot once or twice to stagger them, then sprint forward to trigger the melee prompt. Grace will shove the enemy to the ground. While they are prone, you have a generous window to line up a fatal headshot or escape entirely. This technique is the cornerstone of an effective RE Requiem beginner guide, saving you countless bullets during the claustrophobic hotel sections.

3. Leverage the Hybrid Perspective Wisely

For the first time in mainline history, Requiem allows seamless switching between First-Person and Third-Person views. Don't just pick one and stick to it—use them tactically to solve Resident Evil Requiem puzzles and survive combat.

  • First-Person (FPS): Essential for Grace’s stealth sections. It offers better audio directionality for tracking the stalker enemy and makes examining fine details in puzzle items easier.
  • Third-Person (TPS): The superior choice for Leon’s crowd-control moments. Being able to see enemies flanking you is crucial when you are surrounded by the new fast-moving infected types in the city ruins.

4. Leon’s Melee Finishers Are Your Best Friend

Veterans of Resident Evil 4 will feel right at home with Leon’s updated moveset. In Requiem, stunning an enemy with a shot to the head or knees opens them up for a physical finisher. Unlike Grace’s defensive push, Leon’s roundhouse kick is an offensive powerhouse that deals massive area-of-effect damage.

Group enemies together in tight corridors, stun the lead infected, and let the kick knock back the entire crowd. This is arguably the most important combat strategy in any Resident Evil Requiem walkthrough, as it preserves heavy ammo for boss encounters like the formidable "Zeno."

5. Listen to the “Adaptive Fear” System

Capcom’s new RE Engine feature, "Adaptive Fear," is more than just immersive sound design—it’s a gameplay mechanic. Grace’s breathing pattern changes dynamically based on the threat level, often detecting enemies before you can see them.

If Grace begins to hyperventilate or her heart rate monitor (visible in the UI) spikes while you are exploring a seemingly empty room, freeze. This usually indicates a stalker is nearby or a Licker is on the ceiling. Trust Leon Kennedy and Grace Ashcroft’s instincts; if they sound panicked, you should be too.

6. Resource Management: The Shared Stash Myth

A common misconception is that items are shared freely between characters. They are not. Item boxes are linked, but inventory space is character-specific. Leon has a massive attache case, while Grace is limited to a small field bag.

Do not hoard high-explosive rounds or magnum ammo in the general item box hoping Grace can use them for a boss fight—she often cannot equip the weapons required to fire them. Prioritize giving Grace healing items and crafting components for distractions, while funneling all heavy gunpowder and weapon upgrades to Leon.

7. Scavenge the Ruins of Raccoon City Thoroughly

The reimagined Raccoon City is dense with environmental storytelling and hidden caches. Resident Evil Requiem puzzles often require you to backtrack between the two characters' timelines. Pay close attention to files and documents found in the ARK facility.

Often, a code found by Leon in the combat-heavy present timeline unlocks a safe in Grace’s timeline. Take screenshots of suspicious numbers, clocks, or patterns. Exploring every corner of the map not only rewards you with lore about the "Raccoon City Syndrome" but often yields the key items necessary to upgrade your weapons before the point of no return.