Right now, everything being discussed about Resident Evil 9 is merely a rumor until Capcom comes forth and finally makes something official. At this point, all that’s really known for certain is that the game is in development. Resident Evil 9 has been anticipated for a while now, as the last entry in the series, Village, launched back in 2021. While four years isn’t exactly a long stretch of time between games in this day and age, the rumors and leaks surrounding RE9 can make the wait a real challenge.
Leaks, theories, rumors, and any mention of RE9 as a whole should be taken with a grain of salt, but if the claims prove to be true, Leon S. Kennedy may be set to return as the game’s protagonist. Over the years, Leon has become a fan-favorite, and for good reason. He’s a compelling character, and proving to be an incredibly fun character to play as in RE4 definitely solidified him as a franchise star. It could be exciting to jump back into the shoes of Leon, but there is also a chance that his rumored return as the main character feels disappointing, too.
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Despite His Popularity, Leon May Be Too Obvious of a Choice to Lead RE9
Granted, the Resident Evil franchise has its fair share of strong protagonists that could also fall into the trap of predictability. The likes of franchise heroes like Leon, Jill, and Claire haven’t made an appearance in a while, when excluding the remakes of RE2, RE3, and RE4, so any return is bound to be exciting. RE7 and Village really took a huge chance, though, by introducing an entirely new set of main characters. For the majority of RE7, not a single legacy character was present until Chris Redfield appeared at the ending. It was a bold risk, but it paid off in the long run.
RE7 director Koshi Nakanishi is returning for RE9.
Another Fresh Face Could Be Exciting for RE9
- RE7 and Village‘s protagonist, Ethan, shook up the franchise’s formula.
Ethan Winters is a bit of a divisive character, but the leap Capcom took with a completely unknown lead was refreshing. After the events of Resident Evil Village, the Winters family saga is a bit of a loose end, and it’s unclear if Capcom will ever wrap it up. There is plenty to work with when it comes to Ethan’s daughter, Rose, but even if the Winters family is never revisited, taking note of that era of the franchise and introducing another new protagonist could be quite compelling.
The rumors and leaks surrounding RE9 can make the wait a real challenge.
Of course, Leon doesn’t have to be taken out completely. A rotating ensemble of characters or using legacy heroes as cameos or supporting characters could be just as rewarding, depending on the story. In lieu of a brand-new character, giving underrated faces of RE like Rebecca Chambers or Sheva Alomar another moment in the spotlight might also be a thrilling way to subvert expectations.
RE9 rumors also claim that Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield, and Barry Burton could be making comebacks.
RE9 Remains One of the Industry’s Biggest Mysteries at the Moment
As of now, there is no official RE9 announcement in sight. This year has already been packed with major announcements and reveals, so adding an RE9 confirmation to the mix would make some serious waves. Of course, only time will tell, as Capcom will likely only provide a significant update when the game is nearly ready.
Leon making a comeback may feel a little too predictable, but it would still be exciting to see the character back in action. There are several compelling routes Capcom could go with RE9‘s protagonist, and who that lucky character is remains to be seen.
- Released
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March 24, 2023
- ESRB
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M for Mature 17+ due to Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language
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