The wait is finally over, and the verdict is nearly unanimous: Resident Evil Requiem is the dual-protagonist survival horror masterpiece fans have been dreaming of for decades. With the official embargo lifting just days before its February 27, 2026 release, critics are hailing Capcom’s ninth mainline entry as a triumphant return to form. By masterfully weaving together the claustrophobic terror of the classic games with the high-octane action of the modern era, Requiem doesn't just celebrate the series' 30th anniversary—it redefines it. Whether you're playing on the high-fidelity PS5 Pro or the surprisingly capable Nintendo Switch 2, this return to the ruins of Raccoon City is an essential experience.
Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy: A Perfect Duality
The core of the Resident Evil Requiem review praise centers on its ambitious "Two Souls" gameplay system. Critics highlight how the game effectively splits its runtime between two distinct playstyles that rarely feel disjointed. On one hand, players control Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst and daughter of Outbreak survivor Alyssa Ashcroft. Her segments are pure, unadulterated survival horror. Stripped of heavy weaponry and forced to rely on stealth, distraction, and puzzle-solving, Grace’s chapters channel the psychological dread of Resident Evil 7. Reviewers describe her encounters with the stalking antagonist, Victor Gideon, as some of the most nerve-wracking sequences in franchise history.
Conversely, Leon Kennedy returns with the combat proficiency fans expect from his Resident Evil 4 days. His sections are action-heavy spectacles, showcasing the RE Engine's ability to handle dozens of on-screen enemies without stuttering. Critics appreciate this pacing; just as the tension in Grace’s story becomes unbearable, the game switches to Leon, allowing players to release that pent-up anxiety through precise gunplay and visceral melee counters. It’s a rhythm that keeps the 18-hour campaign feeling fresh from start to finish.
The Ruins of Raccoon City: Atmospheric Storytelling
Set 30 years after the initial outbreak, the setting of Resident Evil Requiem is a character in itself. The narrative justification for returning to the cratered remains of Raccoon City allows for a haunting trip down memory lane. RE Requiem critic scores have been boosted significantly by the game's environmental storytelling. Exploring the overgrown, irradiated remnants of the RPD station and the shadowy corners of the new Wrenwood Hotel offers a poignant look at the franchise's legacy.
The introduction of the "Elanthropus" virus adds a new layer of biological horror, creating enemies that are not just mindless zombies but tragic, twisted figures that retain fragments of their human consciousness. This narrative depth elevates the stakes, making the fight for survival feel personal for both Grace and Leon. It’s not just about surviving monsters; it’s about confronting the ghosts of the past.
Technical Marvel: Switch 2 and PS5 Pro Performance
Perhaps the most shocking revelation from early Resident Evil Requiem gameplay impressions is the game's scalability. On the newly launched Nintendo Switch 2, the game is a technical marvel. Reports confirm that the handheld hybrid maintains a rock-solid 60fps in performance mode, with only minor concessions in texture quality compared to its console brethren. The Switch 2 version utilizes distinct haptic feedback features, making every heartbeat and footstep feel terrifyingly real in your hands.
Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro version is being cited as the definitive visual experience. With advanced ray-tracing global illumination and 4K textures, the wet, decaying streets of Raccoon City have never looked more grotesque or beautiful. Capcom 2026 game reviews universally agree: the RE Engine remains the best in the business, delivering photorealistic lighting that enhances the horror without sacrificing performance.
Verdict: Is Resident Evil Requiem Worth It?
With Resident Evil Requiem critic scores settling in the high 90s, the consensus is clear. This is not just a nostalgia trip; it is a bold step forward that honors the series' roots while embracing modern innovation. The balance between Grace’s vulnerability and Leon’s empowerment creates a dynamic loop that satisfies every type of horror fan.
For those asking about Leon Kennedy Resident Evil 9 theories—the answers hidden within the game's finale will spark debates for years to come. Whether you are a veteran of the 1998 incident or a newcomer drawn in by the hype, Resident Evil Requiem is a terrifying, emotional, and technically stunning achievement that demands to be played.
