"Resident Evil Requiem" is still over a year away, but it's already sent the gaming community into a frenzy this week! Multiple PS5 pre-order players discovered that the PlayStation Store's preload screen had been updated early. Not only did it reveal an automatic download date of February 25, 2026, but the icon also featured a massive image of Leon S. Kennedy, seemingly confirming the fan-favorite character's return in the ninth installment.
Screenshots uploaded by players quickly went viral across social media. The image clearly shows Leon's portrait in the background, alongside the game's protagonist, Grace Ashcroft. While Capcom hasn't officially confirmed Leon's appearance in "Resident Evil Requiem," this Store icon has significantly boosted the credibility of the rumors.
Leon has been a core character since "Resident Evil 2," through "Resident Evil 4," and "Resident Evil 6," so his potential return has always been a hot topic among fans. While the icon all but confirms his appearance, it doesn't reveal his specific role in the story. If Leon truly is in the game, he could be a playable secondary protagonist, make a brief appearance in certain chapters, or even just serve as a non-playable support character.
Adding another layer to the mystery, GameStop was also recently embroiled in a leak controversy due to a deluxe edition product listing. The description indicated that the deluxe edition would include a special costume for "Rosemary Winters," a character not yet officially revealed for "Requiem."
These two unexpected tidbits have players buzzing about whether "Requiem" will expand its playable character roster and return to the dual-protagonist or multi-perspective narrative structures seen in some previous series entries. However, it's also possible that one or both characters could be NPC companions, or that GameStop's description is simply outdated information with no real significance.
"Resident Evil Requiem" is slated for release on February 27, 2026, across PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and PC. More details might drop soon, perhaps even at this year's Game Awards (TGA).
via： VGC