Capcom just dropped major surprises for Resident Evil fans during their January 2026 showcase, revealing how the upcoming game Requiem brings back classic features like ink ribbons and flexible camera views. This ninth entry promises a mix of heart-pounding horror and action, but what does it mean for players? Stick around as we dive into the details that could change how you survive the nightmare.
Showcase Highlights Fresh Gameplay for Requiem
Capcom kicked off the Resident Evil Showcase with a deep look at Requiem’s core mechanics. The event focused on the two main characters, Grace and Leon, each offering a unique play style that blends old-school horror with modern twists.
Grace’s sections lean into traditional survival horror. She must sneak past monsters and the villain Victor Gideon in a creepy hotel setting. This setup echoes the tense evasion from past hits like Resident Evil 7 and Village. Leon, on the other hand, ramps up the action with gun-focused combat, much like the 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4.
The showcase lasted about 12 minutes and packed in new footage that has fans buzzing. It tied back to the series’ roots, linking to the Raccoon City story and Umbrella Corp’s dark past, last explored in Resident Evil 5.
Developers shared that missions switch between the protagonists, keeping gameplay fresh. This dual approach aims to appeal to both horror purists and action lovers.
Camera Perspectives Let Players Choose Their View
One standout reveal came around the seven-minute mark of the preview. Capcom confirmed that Resident Evil Requiem offers both first-person and third-person camera options, giving players full control over how they experience the terror.
You can mix and match these views for Grace and Leon separately in the options menu. Want first-person immersion for Grace’s stealthy escapes but third-person for Leon’s shootouts? It’s all possible. Or stick to one style for the whole game.
This flexibility addresses a long-standing debate in the series. Some fans love the close-up fear of first-person, while others prefer the wider awareness of third-person.
Capcom says this choice enhances replay value, letting you tailor the horror to your taste. Early previews suggest it works seamlessly, with smooth transitions that don’t break the flow.
The feature draws from recent games in the franchise, where camera styles have evolved to boost tension and strategy.
Ink Ribbons Return for Classic Saving Challenge
Saving your progress just got more intense for those craving a nostalgic kick. The showcase announced the return of ink ribbons, a staple from early Resident Evil titles, but with a modern twist.
Ink ribbons appear only if you pick the Standard (Classic) mode at the start. In this option, autosaves are limited during Grace’s gameplay, and you need ribbons to manually save. It matches the difficulty of older games, adding pressure to every decision.
Other modes keep things easier. Casual mode offers aim assist and unlimited saves for newcomers. Standard (Modern) provides a balanced experience without the ribbon restriction.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the game modes:
- Casual: Easy entry with helpers like aim assist and frequent autosaves.
- Standard (Modern): Balanced challenge with full autosave support.
- Standard (Classic): Tough, ribbon-based saving to ramp up the survival stakes.
This setup lets everyone enjoy Requiem, whether you’re a veteran or just dipping in.
Special Hardware Ties into the Horror Theme
The event also spotlighted hardware goodies, including a themed Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller set to launch with the game. This controller features designs inspired by in-game newspaper articles, adding a cool collectible vibe.
Pre-orders are live, priced at around $100. It’s the first special edition for the Switch 2, tying into Requiem’s story of FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft facing her haunted past in a monster-filled hotel.
Capcom teased collaborations too, like custom Porsche elements and Hamilton watches, blending real-world luxury with the game’s eerie world.
These extras show how Requiem aims to immerse fans beyond the screen. The controller’s release aligns perfectly with the game’s debut, making it a must-have for dedicated players.
As Resident Evil Requiem gears up for its February 27, 2026 launch on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, these reveals spark excitement and a bit of dread. The return of ink ribbons and camera choices honors the series’ 30th anniversary while pushing boundaries, potentially drawing in new players and satisfying longtime fans. It reminds us why survival horror grips us, blending fear with clever gameplay that tests our wits. What do you think about these classic comebacks in a modern game? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word with friends on social media.
