OSAKA, Japan – Capcom has unveiled a pivotal shift in the development of its upcoming title, Resident Evil Requiem, opting for a single-player experience after initial tests with online and open-world formats.
Immediate Impact
In a recent developer diary video exclusive to Capcom’s website members, Koshi Nakanishi, the director of Resident Evil Requiem, disclosed that the game initially embraced online and open-world elements. However, these were set aside in favor of a traditional single-player format, aligning with fan expectations.
“You might have heard some of the rumors, things like an online Resident Evil or an open-world Resident Evil, which we spent some time experimenting with,” Nakanishi explained. “But in the end, although we had some interesting concepts, we realized that it wasn’t what fans wanted to see or play. So we went back to the drawing board and created what led to Resident Evil Requiem.”
Key Details Emerge
The first hints of Resident Evil 9’s online origins were shared by prolific series insider Dusk Golem, who revealed on social media that development started in 2017, featuring series protagonists Leon and Jill. According to Golem, the original version aimed to contrast the first-person perspective of Resident Evil 7 but underwent a significant reboot in 2021, coinciding with the release of Resident Evil Village.
“The original version of RE9 was trying to be the opposite of first-person entry RE7, but the project got a pretty heavy reboot in 2021,” Dusk Golem noted.
Industry Response
On Thursday, Capcom debuted the first gameplay footage of Resident Evil Requiem, showcasing both first and third-person perspectives. The game, which was announced earlier this month at The Game Awards, is set for release on February 27 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Resident Evil Requiem is described by Capcom as marking a “bold shift for the franchise,” featuring Grace Ashcroft, the daughter of Resident Evil Outbreak’s Alyssa. Ashcroft, an FBI analyst, investigates mysterious deaths in Raccoon City, 30 years post-bombing from Resident Evil 3.
By the Numbers
- Game Release Date: February 27
- Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
- Protagonist: Grace Ashcroft
- Setting: Raccoon City, 30 years after Resident Evil 3
Background Context
The announcement comes as Capcom continues to explore new directions for its flagship series. The decision to revert to a single-player format underscores a commitment to the core fanbase, who have long cherished the franchise’s survival horror roots. The timing is particularly significant as it aligns with broader industry trends favoring immersive, narrative-driven experiences over multiplayer formats.
What Comes Next
As Resident Evil Requiem approaches its release, anticipation builds around how the game will balance its traditional elements with new innovations. Meanwhile, industry experts warn that the success of Requiem could influence future development trajectories for similar franchises.
According to sources familiar with Capcom’s development strategy, the move represents a significant shift from recent trends, emphasizing the company’s willingness to adapt and respond to fan feedback.
Resident Evil Requiem’s impending release is poised to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers, offering a fresh yet familiar survival horror experience. As the gaming community awaits its debut, Capcom’s strategic pivot may set a new precedent for the series’ future directions.