Resident Evil Requiem Started Development as an Online Game Before Returning to Horror
Producer Masachika Kawata said Resident Evil Requiem was initially developed as an online game, but unfavorable research led the team to abandon that approach and prioritize horror. Leon was the first protagonist selected, yet his strong combat skills were deemed a threat to the game's scary tone, prompting the addition of Grace. Capcom held back details about Leon's involvement to keep fans engaged until launch.
Kawata discussed these decisions in the Biohazard 30th Special Mook, a 124-page color fan book covering series history, creatures, and developer interviews. Director Koshi Nakanishi had initially pursued an online version of Requiem, but midway research convinced the team to return to horror and drop that plan.
Leon was chosen as the first playable lead, though his combat strength risked making the experience less frightening, so Grace was created. Capcom also delayed revealing Leon to sustain fan curiosity. Similar pressure once surrounded Resident Evil 7, when management sought multiplayer and microtransactions before those ideas were discarded.
Fans of horror games and single-player experiences may welcome Capcom’s choice to prioritize scares over online features, while developers could see it as a reminder that research findings can redirect major projects. Capcom’s secrecy around Leon may also shape fan speculation and engagement before launch. Still, one title’s changed direction is unlikely to alter the wider industry’s live-service ambitions on its own.