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Rumors surrounding Resident Evil Requiem, the upcoming ninth mainline installment in Capcom’s iconic survival horror franchise, continue to generate buzz. Furthermore, fans eagerly await its official gameplay reveal, with the game, first announced during Summer Game Fest 2025, scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The story follows Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst delving into a series of unexplained deaths at the Wrenwood Hotel, which may hold dark connections to her past. That said, what does Leon S. Kennedy, the beloved series veteran, play in this chilling new chapter?

Resident Evil’s Biggest Twist Yet

Requiem offers players the flexibility to switch between first-person and third-person perspectives. Moreover, the game is also shaping up to be one of the most narrative-driven entries in the franchise. Both Grace and the iconic Leon Kennedy will take center stage, driving the game’s tension and emotional weight with their intertwined stories. Notably, Capcom is set to showcase the title at Gamescom Opening Night Live on August 19, with anticipation reaching a fever pitch.

Meanwhile, Leon’s future in the series has taken over recent discussions about the series due to a fresh leak from a trusted insider. Specifically, fans may want to prepare themselves to say goodbye to this beloved character, who may receive a special send-off as the game may mark the end of an era. Dusk Golem, a well-known and reliable source for Resident Evil leaks, provided these latest details, recently taking to social media to share insights about the game’s narrative direction. Their post reveals that Requiem’s overarching theme of Long-Awaited Endings & New Beginnings may directly tie into the character’s role in the franchise.

Grace In, Leon Out? RE Shake-Up!

Image from Resident Evil Requiem courtesy of Capcom

Despite Leon’s potential exit from the series, he’s still expected to continue appearing in spin-off media and prequel stories. However, Requiem could serve as his final major appearance in the mainline series. According to Golem, Leon and Grace will share the spotlight as dual protagonists, though the story’s conclusion may ultimately feel like a farewell to Leon’s journey.

Still, the specifics of the character’s fate were not fully known by the insider, who speculated that he could choose to retire after the events of the game. So, will Requiem signal a natural endpoint for his story? Fan theories have run rampant about Leon’s role in the game, whether he’ll meet a tragic end or pave the way for Grace to become the new face of the franchise.

Capcom’s Bold Move: Leon’s Exit

Capcom is gearing up to unveil new footage at Gamescom, leaving fans to wonder how much of the game’s plot will be shown. So far, it’s unknown if the trailer will confirm Leon’s rumored final arc or keep his fate under wraps to preserve the suspense. Additionally, Grace Ashcroft’s backstory and connection to the Wrenwood Hotel should also be presented, but how will it factor into the larger narrative? Requiem‘s emphasis on psychological horror and deep character development could redefine the series’ storytelling approach.

If there’s one thing to take away, Requiem is shaping up to be a pivotal entry in the franchise. For Resident Evil fans, the hope that Leon’s journey concludes with a heroic exit rather than a heartbreaking sacrifice remains high. With his presence in the game, long-time fans will be emotionally invested in every twist and turn. Sadly, however, fans will have to wait to see what’s in store for Leon and whether he’ll get a proper send-off that he deserves or if there’s more to his story than anyone expects.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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