Resident Evil Requiem: Deja Vu or Doomed Hero?

Seventeen minutes. Three events. Identical demo. Is Capcom playing safe with Resident Evil Requiem or hiding something dark twist about Leon? We break down the demo, the IGN interview and what it could mean for our hero.

Thomas Brodie, marine biologist, examines coral reef.

Thomas Brodie

· 4 min read
Resident Evil Requiem: Deja Vu or Doomed Hero?

Alright, fellow zombie slayers, let's talk Resident Evil Requiem. And more specifically, let's talk about the lack of new information surrounding it. Capcom's been trotting out the same 17 minute demo like it's the hottest dance craze since, well, the zombie shuffle. Seen it at Summer Game Fest. Saw it again at Gamescom. And yes, even at the Tokyo Game Show. So, what gives? Are they stalling? Or is there a method to this madness? Let's dive in, shall we?

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Frequently Asked Questions (Because Capcom Isn't Answering Ours)

Q: Another demo? Seriously? What's even in this Resident Evil Requiem demo?

A: Precisely! It's the same demo, folks. Same section starring Grace, the new character everyone's trying to figure out. Now, don't get me wrong, Grace looks cool. But after seeing her dodge zombies for the third time, you have to wonder what else is there? We have seen gameplay, but they are holding back.

Q: Fine, so the demo's a repeat. Is there ANY new information?

A: Well, kinda. Hardcore Gamer and a bunch of YouTubers (bless their completionist souls) have uploaded full playthroughs. So if you really, really wanna see Grace in action, it's out there. Plus, IGN snagged an interview with producer Masato Kumazama and director Koshi Nakanishi. And that's where things get juicy. So pay close attention!

Q: Juuuuicy? Tell me more. Is it about Leon?

A: Bingo! The big question on everyone's mind: Where's Leon "Best Hair in Raccoon City" Kennedy? Is he even gonna be playable? Valentine at IGN asked the hard questions, and Capcom gave the classic "dodge and weave" response. Classic corporate non-answers.

Q: Okay but what about this "passing the torch" nonsense? Is Leon gonna kick the bucket?

A: That's the million dollar question! Kumazama did say, "I still think passing the torch is probably going a bit too far, because we're not just going to wipe the slate clean completely in terms of the series lore and history." But. BUT! He also added that they don't want to always rely on existing characters. Which is what led to Grace's creation in the first place. Cryptic, right?

Here's the thing. Are they testing the waters with a new protagonist because Leon’s story is coming to a close? It could be. Or maybe they just want to introduce a new, equally awesome character to the Resident Evil universe. Time will tell.

Q: So what are our options? Break it down for me, soldier.

A: Alright, private! Here's the intel we've got:

  • Option 1: The Red Herring. Capcom's intentionally downplaying Leon's role to surprise us later. He'll be playable, integral to the story, and save the day as usual. Think of it as a tactical feint.
  • Option 2: The Passing of the Torch. Leon's story arc is nearing its end. He might not die, but he could take on a mentor role, paving the way for Grace or another new character to take center stage. Maybe he runs for office?
  • Option 3: The Deception. The entire demo is a misdirect. We spend half the game as Grace, only to discover Leon's been pulling the strings behind the scenes the whole time. Boom! Mind blown.

Q: Any tips for surviving the wait for more Resident Evil Requiem info?

A: You bet your bioweapon, there are! Here's your survival guide:

So, yeah, the demo situation is a bit of a head-scratcher. Is Capcom playing it too safe? Maybe. But with the promise of a fresh perspective, we're willing to hold out hope. We just need something new to chew on. More Leon! Less… repeated demos! And please, for the love of Umbrella, no more zombie dogs leaping through windows. My nerves can't take it.

Thomas Brodie

Thomas Brodie

Defender of the deep. Passionate about marine conservation, he works tirelessly to protect our oceans and their inhabitants.