Leon S. Kennedy Was Considered A 'Bad Match' For Resident Evil Requiem

Resident Evil Requiem stars a new character in Grace Ashcroft, but fans have speculated that Leon S. Kennedy may play a role in the game, possibly as another playable character. Director Koshi Nakanishi seemingly silenced these rumors during last night’s Capcom Spotlight, where he revealed that Leon was initially considered for Requiem's starring role but was ultimately considered a bad fit for the game. 

Nakanishi states that while they considered including the popular hero of Resident Evil 2 and 4, Requiem’s core concept of “addictive fear,” an experience so oppressively terrifying that players enjoy overcoming their fear, didn’t fit with Leon’s generally fearless and capable characterization.

“We always thought about making Leon the protagonist, but making a horror game based around him is difficult,” says Nakanishi. “He wouldn’t jump at something like a bucket falling. No one wants to see Leon scared by every little thing. So he’s actually a bad match for horror.”

Resident Evil 2 Remake

While this doesn't necessarily rule out that Leon could appear in a non-playable capacity, it seems like fans won't be getting their wish of controlling the former cop-turned-government agent in the new game. Capcom Spotlight also shared more about Resident Evil Requiem's story premise, themes, and the decision behind making Grace Ashcroft the lead. You can read all about it here. 

Resident Evil Requiem launches February 27 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. To learn more about how the game is shaping up so far, we played it for 30 minutes during Summer Game Fest. You can read our impressions here.