Capcom has clarified why Leon S. Kennedy isn't the lead character in Resident Evil Requiem, citing his extensive experience and evolution throughout the series. While fans hoped for Leon's return in Resident Evil Requiem, the debut trailer introduced an entirely new protagonist.

The upcoming Resident Evil Requiem marks a major franchise milestone by revisiting Raccoon City for the first time since the original outbreak. Players will assume the role of Grace Ashcroft, daughter of Resident Evil Outbreak's Alyssa Ashcroft, navigating the terror-filled streets.

During Capcom's developer broadcast, director Koshi Nakanishi revealed the team initially considered Leon but ultimately found him incompatible with the game's horror vision. As Nakanishi explained, Leon's veteran status would make typical scare tactics ineffective - a seasoned agent wouldn't react fearfully to mundane disturbances, breaking player immersion.

Grace Ashcroft represents the ideal horror protagonist - an introverted FBI analyst with theoretical knowledge but limited field experience. Unlike Leon's confident demeanor, Grace's vulnerability mirrors how players would genuinely react to biological horrors, creating stronger emotional engagement.

This design philosophy continues Capcom's trend seen in Resident Evil 5 and 6, where veteran characters like Chris and Leon were paired with less experienced partners to maintain tension. Grace's character arc - overcoming fears while utilizing her analytical skills - offers fresh narrative possibilities compared to Leon's established heroics.

The decision also allows Capcom to explore Raccoon City's ruins through new eyes. Where Leon would approach situations with tactical precision, Grace's reactions will feel more authentic to horror survival - a perspective that aligns with the franchise's recent return to psychological terror roots.

While Leon remains one of Resident Evil's most beloved characters, his evolution into a superhuman veteran makes him better suited for action-oriented spin-offs. Requiem's focus on raw survival horror necessitated a protagonist whose fear responses would feel genuine rather than performative.