Why is Leon 50 in Resident Evil Requiem while Jill and Claire don't age?
Polygon
by Giovanni ColantonioFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Resident Evil Requiem introduces Leon S. Kennedy as an older character, while fan-favorite heroes like Jill Valentine and Claire Redfield remain youthful. This decision has sparked curiosity among fans, who wonder why the aging process is applied inconsistently across characters. The reason lies in Capcom's unique lore: female characters in the Resident Evil universe age much more slowly than their male counterparts, a detail that has become a defining feature of the series.
This slow-aging phenomenon is tied to the "Plaga" virus and other supernatural elements in the games, which have been used to explain the unusual longevity of female protagonists. While Leon ages normally, Jill and Claire are depicted as aging very slowly, preserving their youthful appearances over decades. This choice has become a hallmark of the series, though it raises questions about consistency and character development.
For fans, seeing Leon age naturally adds depth to his character and reflects real-world passage of time. However, the lack of visible aging for Jill and Claire leaves room for speculation about future narratives. Fans are eager to see how Capcom will handle character progression in a way that feels authentic and satisfying to long-time players.
This issue matters because it highlights the balance between lore consistency and storytelling innovation. While the slow-aging trait is unique to the series, its application can impact player engagement and expectations for character development. As Resident Evil continues to evolve, fans will be watching closely to see how Capcom addresses these narrative choices in future installments.
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Originally published on Polygon on 2/22/2026