Capcom shattered expectations at this year’s Summer Game Fest with the unexpected reveal of Resident Evil Requiem—the long-anticipated next entry in the iconic survival horror franchise. Honoring decades of heart-pounding terror while paving the way for a bold new narrative, Requiem is set to launch on February 27, 2026, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Even more thrilling is Capcom’s confirmation that the franchise’s 30th anniversary will be celebrated later in 2026—a milestone that proves just how far Resident Evil has come since its inception in 1996.
During the Summer Game Fest, Capcom kept fans on the edge of their seats by cleverly teasing an upcoming celebration. Early in the broadcast, representatives mentioned exciting plans connected to the series’ 30th anniversary, only to pull off a classic fake-out reveal—a technique that has become synonymous with Capcom’s flair for dramatic storytelling. This double-layered announcement not only confirmed the next installment but also set the stage for commemorating 30 years of survival horror excellence. The masterful blend of misdirection and genuine news left longtime fans both nostalgic and eager for what’s next.
Unveiling Requiem’s Story and Characters
At the heart of Resident Evil Requiem is a brand-new protagonist: Grace Ashcroft. As an intrepid FBI agent with a personal connection to the franchise’s storied past, Grace’s journey is as emotional as it is terrifying. She is revealed to be the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft—a character tied to the revered Resident Evil Outbreak series—adding another rich layer to the game’s lore. In a twist that mixes personal tragedy with investigative intrigue, Grace is tasked with uncovering the sinister truth behind an unexplained and deadly outbreak. Her investigation leads her to the foreboding Remwood Hotel, a site that holds secrets of her own family’s dark history, including the murder of her mother .
Subtle nods to the legacy of the franchise are evident, too. Hints of familiar faces, like Leon Kennedy, peek through the intense narrative setup, suggesting that while Requiem introduces fresh blood, it also honors the lineage of iconic characters that long-time fans cherish.
Resident Evil Requiem is poised to be more than a simple retread of its predecessors. Capcom is reintroducing the claustrophobic tension and visceral dread that defined early Resident Evil titles while also incorporating modern cinematic high-stakes action—a transformation that reflects both the evolution of gameplay and narrative storytelling. Leveraging advancements like the enhanced RE Engine, Requiem promises immersive, cutting-edge visuals with faithful callbacks to the survival horror atmosphere that fans revere. This balanced approach ensures that the game remains a genuine homage to the series’ roots even as it experiments with innovative gameplay mechanics.
Notably, while the full game is set to launch in February 2026, Capcom has teased an early glimpse for eager players: a playable demo will debut at Gamescom in August 2025. This early access will allow fans to experience firsthand the chilling atmosphere and intricate design that define Requiem’s bold new direction.
A 30-Year Journey: Celebrating the Legacy
One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is its connection to Resident Evil’s monumental 30th anniversary. Starting from a modest 1996 debut that forever changed the landscape of survival horror, the franchise has evolved into a multimedia phenomenon. The celebration of 30 years isn’t just a number—it’s a tribute to the relentless innovation, heart-stopping gameplay, and complex narrative twists that have kept players coming back for more.
Resident Evil Requiem not only sets the stage for the next terrifying chapter but also serves as a living, breathing homage to the series’ grand history. As Capcom prepares to mark this momentous milestone, both longtime fans and newcomers can look forward to a gaming event that bridges the gap between nostalgic reverence and futuristic innovation.
With Resident Evil Requiem, Capcom is pulling off a masterstroke—a game that weaves together deeply personal lore, familiar faces, and a renewed commitment to classic survival horror. As the February 2026 release date looms and preparations for the 30th anniversary celebration get underway, the new chapter promises to be a transformative experience both on-screen and in the hearts of its fans.
As we await further details—from additional trailers to behind-the-scenes developer insights—the excitement continues to build. What new terrors will Grace Ashcroft face? How will Capcom balance innovation with the cherished history of the series? One thing is certain: the future of Resident Evil is as chilling and captivating as ever.