Get ready to have your mind blown, because the Resident Evil franchise just dropped a bombshell with its latest installment, Resident Evil Requiem. But here's the kicker: can a series that's been around for three decades still feel fresh? Spoiler alert: it absolutely can. Priced at $69.99 and available on PlayStation 5 Pro, PC, Switch 2, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S, Requiem is a masterclass in blending the old with the new, creating an experience that feels both nostalgic and groundbreaking. After reviewing it on the PlayStation 5 Pro, I can confidently say this is one of the year’s best games and a deserving Editors' Choice winner.
What’s New in Resident Evil Requiem?
When I first heard about the dual-protagonist setup, alarm bells went off. After all, Resident Evil 6 tried something similar and ended up bloated and underwhelming. But Requiem isn’t just a repeat of past mistakes. It’s a maximalist entry done right, celebrating the series’ evolution since Resident Evil 7 breathed new life into survival horror. After playing the demo, my initial concern shifted: Would Capcom play it too safe? The answer? Absolutely not. Requiem is a bold culmination of the last decade’s best Resident Evil elements, expertly woven into a satisfying whole.
You step into the shoes of two protagonists: Grace Ashcroft, a timid FBI agent new to the series, and Leon S. Kennedy, the seasoned DSO agent fans know and love. Their personalities couldn’t be more different. Grace is the embodiment of vulnerability, whimpering at every creak and stammering through her words. Leon, on the other hand, is the epitome of cool, delivering corny one-liners with such charm they’re impossible to hate. But here’s where it gets controversial: does Grace’s character risk overshadowing Leon’s iconic presence, or does she bring a refreshing humanity to the series?
These differences aren’t just for show—they shape the gameplay. Grace’s sections are slower, puzzle-heavy, and dripping with horror, reminiscent of Resident Evil 2. Leon’s, meanwhile, are action-packed and fast-paced, echoing Resident Evil 4. Their stories intertwine seamlessly, sometimes unfolding moments apart, creating a dynamic narrative that keeps you hooked.
Gameplay: A Perfect Marriage of Old and New
At its core, Requiem is a shooter, but it’s the way it alternates between Grace’s tense, horror-focused sequences and Leon’s adrenaline-fueled combat that makes it shine. Grace’s sheer terror when facing monsters is endearing—her panicked sprints through blood-soaked corridors feel refreshingly human. Leon, however, steals the show with his John Wick-esque combat, parrying attacks and dispatching zombies with style. But here’s the question: does Leon’s gameplay outshine Grace’s, or do they complement each other perfectly?
The game starts by alternating between the two, but just as the formula threatens to grow stale, it shifts to a semi-open world, flipping the gameplay on its head. Leon’s sections here are a highlight, introducing arcade-like mechanics where kills earn points for weapon upgrades. It’s a bold move that pays off, injecting fresh energy into the series.
Story: A Poignant Tribute to the Past
Requiem’s narrative is its most ambitious yet, tackling themes of survivor’s guilt and regret. Grace, revealed to be the daughter of Raccoon City survivor Alyssa Ashcroft, grapples with her mother’s death, while Leon is haunted by his own past. The game’s subtitle, Requiem, isn’t just a name—it’s a reflection of the characters’ journeys toward remembrance and repose. But here’s the debate: does the story’s emotional depth make up for its unanswered questions and loose plot threads?
Graphics and Performance: A Visual Masterpiece
Powered by the RE Engine, Requiem is a visual feast. The lighting is stunning, with shadows in abandoned hotels and the glow of emergency lights creating an atmosphere that’s both eerie and breathtaking. Character models are incredibly detailed, and the game runs smoothly at 4K/60fps on the PlayStation 5 Pro with ray tracing enabled. But here’s the question: is ray tracing a game-changer, or is the RE Engine’s efficiency the real star?
Resident Evil Requiem isn’t just a game—it’s a love letter to fans and a bold step forward for the series. It combines the best of Village, 7, 2, 3, and 4 into a near-perfect package. While it may not be as revolutionary as Resident Evil 7 or 4 in their time, it’s a confident, polished entry that plays to its strengths. So, here’s the final thought: is Requiem a safe bet or a daring evolution? Let’s debate in the comments!
