Resident Evil Requiemis set to be the ninth mainline chapter in Capcom’s horror franchise, and it’s once again shaking up the series with a brand-new protagonist. The first trailer forResident Evil Requiemis already promising a bold departure, as FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft investigates a murder at the mysterious Wrenwood Hotel, teasing a more psychologically-charged experience over action.
WhileGrace seems to be the main character of the story, there are already rumors that she isn’t the only protagonist planned. Leading up to the reveal of the first trailer, there were plenty of rumors and leaks suggesting that Leon S. Kennedy could return. Of course, all leaks should be taken with a grain of salt, but if he really does return as a second playable character,Requiemcould be the testing ground for a remake ofResident Evil 5and its co-op.
If Resident Evil Requiem Goes the Dual-Protagonist Route, it Could Bring Back RE5’s Co-Op Mechanics
RE5is a standout entry in the seriesfor several reasons. From the game’s setting in the fictional African region of Kijuju to Jill Valentine being under Albert Wesker’s mind control, the chapter takes interesting turns that are worthy of revisiting with a remake. One of the best aspects about the game, though, is that it can be played entirely in co-op. With two players, Chris and Sheva are able to fight their way through infected as they investigate the newest bioterrorism threat.
RE Requiemlaunches June 01, 2025.
Leon Potentially Being Part of Requiem’s Story Would Open the Door for Co-Op
Right now, there isn’t much known about Grace Ashcroft. On June 26,Capcom is hosting a showcasethat features many of its biggest franchises, andResident Evilis expected to appeare. It’s unclear if Capcom will reveal more about Grace at this event, but there will hopefully be a little bit more insight given into what kind of role she plays in the story. At first glance, she seems to have a far gentler personality than one would expect from someone who has been tasked with investigating a murder, but there may be a grittier character lying beneath the surface.
If that’s the case, Grace and Leon could potentially be a mirror image ofChris and Sheva, with Grace being the second playable character, if Leon is revealed to be the secret main protagonist. Even more intriguing, though, is that it could also give Capcom fresh feedback regarding a co-op campaign. IfRequiemcan balance co-op well and fans like it, then it could be the reassurance Capcom needs to bring anRE5remake to life.
Grace Ashcroft is the daughter of Raccoon City investigative reporter Alyssa Ashcroft, who appeared inRE Outbreak. She was also murdered at the Wrenwood Hotel eight years prior toRequiem’s story.
An RE5 Remake Needs to Make Co-Op a Priority
RE5was the first game in the series that was designed with a co-op campaign in mind. It’s a central part of its identity, so leaving co-op out of anRE5remake would be incredibly jarring. It may be uncertain whetherRequiemhas two protagonistsor not, butRE5would be a strong blueprint for adapting two main characters. There’s always the possibility thatRequiemcould go the route of pastResident Evilgames with two leads and just swap between them, but taking theRE5approach may be the stronger choice, as it would shake up expectations.
It may be a while beforeResident Evilfans get anRE5remake, but if that day ever comes, it would seem wrong to leave co-op out of the experience. As of now,Requiemwaits on the horizon, and it will be thrilling to see how the game approaches its main character (or characters).
