Resident Evil: Requiem Developers Reveal How Much We’ll Play as Leon — And Say The Survival Horror/Action Contrast Is Like Jumping Into a Cold Bath After a Hot Sauna

Following official confirmation that Leon S. Kennedy will co-star in Resident Evil: Requiem, the game’s developers have confirmed how much we’ll be playing as the floppy-hair favorite — and it’s good news for his fans.

Speaking to Automaton, director Akifumi Nakanishi revealed that Requiem features nearly equal screentime between Leon and the previously-revealed Grace Ashcroft.

“In terms of gameplay, Grace and Leon’s playable sections are almost equally split,” Nakanishi said, likening the game’s structure as similar to Resident Evil: Revelations, which featured both Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine.

“It’s almost like having two games with completely different types of tension mixed together,” Nakanishi continued. “Early on, we worried players might not be able to keep up, but now we feel that the contrast gives the game a unique rhythm, like jumping into a cold bath after sitting in a hot sauna (laughs).”

Nakanishi went on to describe Leon’s playable sections as a “release” after the intense horror of playing as the less-experienced Grace. But don’t expect Leon’s gameplay to be a doddle — as the hero will also put himself in danger to protect others. Surely Capcom won’t kill him off?

“The battle this time will probably push Leon to his limits more than ever before, and this is a crucial part of the experience,” Nakanishi noted. “He’s the type who doesn’t hesitate to sacrifice himself to save others, but he’s not arrogant about it, and he has a passionate inner self. I hope you’ll also look forward to the dry wit and subtle sarcasm that only an older guy can bring.”

Capcom knows that Leon has a passionate set of fans, and it sounds like the game will lean into that — making him a “handsome” figure who’s “cool personality-wise too.” Last night’s trailer showed him driving a custom-built Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, something Capcom has secured an official license from the car company to include.

“Although he’s a character who carries a lot on his shoulders, we took a lot of care in refining him to be an ‘ikeoji’ (a cool/attractive older guy),” Nakanishi concluded. “The reactions to the trailer on that front have made us happy (laughs).”

Despite Leon’s involvement now being confirmed, Requiem may still have secrets left in store. There was no mention tonight of a potential third playable character — something raised earlier this week by a GameStop listing that referenced Rosemary Winters. Be sure to check out everything announced at The Game Awards 2025 for more, as well as the winners list in full.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social