Resident Evil 9: Requiem is shaping up to be one of the most substantial entries in Capcom’s long-running survival horror franchise, with new details pointing to a significantly longer main campaign, dual protagonists, and flexible gameplay perspectives.
According to series producer Masato Kumazawa, the game is designed to take approximately 18 hours to complete, nearly doubling the length of Resident Evil Village. The decision reportedly comes in direct response to long-standing criticism surrounding the shorter runtimes of recent installments.
A Longer, More Balanced Resident Evil Experience
Capcom has reportedly set a clear goal for Resident Evil 9: Requiem: deliver a campaign that feels complete, dense, and thoughtfully paced. Kumazawa confirmed that the extended runtime was intentionally chosen to avoid feedback that previous entries felt too short, particularly from players who completed the story in a single weekend.
Early estimates suggest the main campaign will range from 13 to 18 hours, with most sources placing the average playthrough closer to 16 to 19 hours, depending on playstyle. Completionists who engage with optional content are expected to exceed 20 hours.
This places Resident Evil 9 firmly above Resident Evil Village in length and roughly in line with the Resident Evil 4 Remake, which averages around 16 hours for a standard run.
Dual Protagonists With Distinct Gameplay Styles
One of the defining features of Resident Evil 9: Requiem is its dual-protagonist structure, featuring Leon S. Kennedy and newcomer Grace Ashcroft. Each character reportedly has their own campaign, lasting around nine hours each, contributing to the overall 18-hour experience.
Grace Ashcroft: Survival Horror Focus
Grace’s chapters are said to lean heavily into traditional survival horror, emphasizing tension, limited resources, and vulnerability. Her gameplay reportedly draws inspiration from Resident Evil 2 Remake and Resident Evil 7, prioritizing atmosphere and careful decision-making over direct confrontation.
Leon S. Kennedy: Action-Oriented Horror
Leon’s sections, by contrast, are described as more action-driven, aligning with the “action horror” approach seen in Resident Evil 4. His gameplay reportedly focuses on confident combat, tactical movement, and proactive engagement with enemies, offering a sharp contrast to Grace’s more restrained playstyle.
Capcom appears to be using this contrast intentionally, allowing the game to balance fear and action without overcommitting to either extreme.
First-Person and Third-Person Gameplay Options
Another notable feature is the reported inclusion of fully supported first-person and third-person perspectives, which players can switch between at any time. Unlike previous entries where camera perspectives were fixed or limited, Resident Evil 9 is expected to support both views seamlessly across the entire campaign.
This approach mirrors Capcom’s recent trend toward player choice and accessibility, giving fans the flexibility to experience the game in their preferred style.
Optional Content, Replayability, and Post-Launch Possibilities
While the main story is designed to stand on its own, rumors and leaks suggest that Resident Evil 9: Requiem may include optional side content within both Leon’s and Grace’s chapters. These sections could further extend playtime and reward exploration without bloating the core narrative.
There is also speculation that popular bonus modes such as The Mercenaries or Raid Mode could return, potentially as post-launch updates. Additionally, unconfirmed reports point to possible downloadable content centered on Alyssa Ashcroft, Grace’s mother, expanding the game’s narrative universe.
Capcom has not officially confirmed these features, but their inclusion would align with the franchise’s recent post-launch support strategy.
Release Date and Final Expectations
Resident Evil 9: Requiem is currently scheduled for release on February 27, 2026. Based on available information, the game is positioned as a major, ambitious entry that blends survival horror and action while directly addressing past criticisms around campaign length.
If these reports hold true, Resident Evil 9 could strike a rare balance: a longer
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Resident Evil 9: Requiem?
The main campaign is expected to last 13 to 18 hours, with most playthroughs averaging around 16 to 19 hours. Completionists may exceed 20 hours.
Who are the playable characters in Resident Evil 9?
Players will control Leon S. Kennedy and Grace Ashcroft, each with their own campaign and distinct gameplay style.
Will Resident Evil 9 have first-person and third-person modes?
Yes. The game reportedly allows players to switch freely between first-person and third-person perspectives at any point during gameplay.
