Resident Evil Requiem Review: A Masterful Fusion of Survival Horror and High-Octane Action

Our spoiler-free Resident Evil Requiem review breaks down Grace Ashford and Leon Kennedy's dual-campaign journey in Capcom’s latest 2026 survival horror epic.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 26, 2026, 8:02 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Esports Insider

A Tale of Two Playstyles

The core innovation of Resident Evil Requiem lies in its structural split between two iconic playstyles. Playing as newcomer Grace Ashford offers a pure survival horror experience defined by resource scarcity, intricate crafting, and lethal encounters that demand stealth. In contrast, Leon Kennedy’s segments pivot toward the "action horror" style perfected in Resident Evil 4, providing players with an expansive arsenal to dismantle hordes of infected. While the transition between these styles keeps the pacing fresh, the review notes that the game occasionally struggles with the balance, leaving Leon underutilized in the first half and Grace in the second.

Narrative Depth and the Mystery of Elpis

The story picks up narrative threads from four previous installments, making it a treasure trove for lore enthusiasts. Centered around the mysterious "Elpis," the plot starts as a slow-burn mystery that rewards patient players with shocking revelations. While veterans will appreciate the countless references to past entries, newcomers are given enough context within the first few hours to follow the stakes. The character development for both Grace and Leon is highlighted as a standout feature, proving that Capcom can iterate on established tropes without leaning solely on nostalgia.

Atmosphere vs. Game Design Valleys

Visually and atmospherically, Requiem is a triumph, successfully blending gore, splatter, and high-stakes tension. However, the game is not without its flaws. Some sections feel formulaic, with puzzles and combat encounters that can occasionally border on repetitive or frustrating. These "valleys" in game design are largely redeemed by "peaks" of extraordinary exuberance cinematic sequences that capture the classic, slightly over-the-top Resident Evil charm.