The wait for the next chapter in Capcom's legendary survival horror saga is almost over, and thanks to a fresh leak from reliable industry insiders, we now know exactly when the verdict will land. The Resident Evil Requiem review embargo is reportedly set to lift on February 25, 2026, just two days before the game's global launch. This late embargo has sparked intense discussion among fans, suggesting Capcom is playing its cards close to the chest regarding the twisted fate of Leon Kennedy in Resident Evil Requiem and the introduction of new protagonist Grace Ashcroft.
RE9 Review Scores: The Exact Timing
According to prominent leaker Dusk Golem, who has maintained a sterling track record with Capcom rumors, the official RE9 review scores will go live at 7:00 AM PT / 10:00 AM ET on Wednesday, February 25. This timing follows a pattern seen with Resident Evil Village and the Resident Evil 4 remake, where reviews dropped shortly before release to maximize hype while minimizing story spoilers.
For fans debating a pre-order, this 48-hour window offers a crucial buffer. You will have two full days to digest the critical consensus on the game's performance, particularly regarding its optimization on the new Nintendo Switch 2 and the scale of its horror elements, before the Resident Evil 9 release date of February 27.
Campaign Length and Survival Horror Scale
One of the most contentious points in the leak concerns the Resident Evil Requiem campaign length. Insider reports suggest a tight, focused 12-hour narrative. While some players might hope for a sprawling 20-hour epic, veteran fans know that a leaner runtime often benefits survival horror, maintaining tension without padding.
The campaign is split between two distinct perspectives. Players will reportedly control a virus-infected Leon S. Kennedy, battling his own deteriorating condition while wielding heavy firepower, and Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst whose segments lean heavily into psychological horror and resource scarcity. This duality aims to satisfy both action-oriented fans and purists seeking traditional scares.
New Protagonist: Who is Grace Ashcroft?
While Leon needs no introduction, Grace Ashcroft is the wild card of Capcom 2026 horror games. Described as the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft—a deep-cut reference to Resident Evil Outbreak—Grace brings a fresh dynamic to the series. Leaks indicate her gameplay involves forensic investigation mechanics and a vulnerability that contrasts sharply with Leon's combat proficiency.
Rumors hint that Grace's connection to the Ashcroft lineage isn't just fan service but integral to the plot, which reportedly ties up loose ends from the Spencer mansion era. If the RE9 gameplay reviews confirm these narrative hooks, Requiem could be the most lore-heavy entry since Code: Veronica.
What to Expect on Launch Day
With the Resident Evil 9 release date fast approaching, the community is bracing for what insiders are calling the "darkest entry yet." The decision to set the review embargo so close to launch suggests Capcom is confident in the product but desperate to protect its narrative twists.
Whether you're excited to see a darker, infected Leon or curious about Grace's role in the expanding lore, next week will be pivotal. Keep an eye out for the flood of RE9 gameplay reviews hitting the web on the 25th to see if Requiem truly serves as the grand finale to the current era of Resident Evil.
