Resident Evil Requiem Is a Kick-Ass Leon Kennedy Legacy Sequel

IGN

by Matt Purslow

March 4, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Resident Evil Requiem delivers a thrilling return to form for fan-favorite hero Leon S. Kennedy, offering a fresh take on the beloved character after years of waiting. While initially hyped as a vehicle for new protagonist Grace Ashcroft, the game doubles down on Leon’s legacy, presenting him as an older, wiser, and more weathered version of himself. This marks Leon’s first standalone adventure in over a decade, following his brief appearance in Resident Evil 6 and his role in the 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4. Requiem captures the essence of Leon’s signature charm—his campy humor, relentless toughness, and unwavering determination—while adding depth through his newfound maturity and experiences. The game stands out for its rare approach to character aging in video games, a medium where protagonists often remain stagnant in time. Unlike mascot characters like Mario or Sonic, who are timeless, Leon’s evolution reflects the passage of time, making his return feel special and relatable. This mirrors Hollywood’s trend of legacy sequels, where iconic characters like Han Solo or Indiana Jones are revisited with age, allowing fans to reconnect with beloved figures in a new light. Requiem taps into this emotional connection by showcasing Leon’s growth while retaining the core elements that made him a gaming icon. For fans of the Resident Evil series, Requiem fills a long-standing gap left by years of sequels and remakes focused on other characters or retelling familiar stories. Its status as a legacy sequel not only honors Leon’s impact but also sets a new standard for how video game franchises can evolve their characters over time. By blending action, horror, and nostalgia, Requiem delivers a thrilling

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Originally published on IGN on 3/4/2026