Resident Evil 9 is already buzzing. And honestly, who can blame them? This franchise knows how to deliver. The leaks, the rumors—gameplay, story twists, maybe even some familiar faces coming back—it’s all got people fired up. Let’s briefly break down these details as well as what to expect from the next installment.
The World and the Story
The events of Resident Evil 9 will reportedly take place four years after Resident Evil Village. Jill Valentine and Leon Kennedy are confirmed as primary characters. Jill will have a tactical look similar to her Resident Evil 5 style, while Leon will resemble his appearance in Resident Evil Damnation but older.
In the central narrative, Jill and Leon are sent to a distant island to investigate. They find a mysterious lab creative of Evelyn, the female antagonist from Resident Evil 7; every clone that the lab spits out seems to connect to the Village of Mega Mycete. Supporting characters include Chris Redfield and Barry Burton, who will assist the protagonists via radio.
One interesting aspect of the story is the utilization of Rosemary Winters’ blood to produce a vaccine for the infected island inhabitants. Both Jill and Leon will reportedly be infected with the Mega Mycete, adding personal stakes to their mission.
Resident Evil 9 Gameplay Details
Resident Evil 9 gameplay will introduce some exciting mechanics and settings:
- Stalker Enemies: Similar to Mr. X in Resident Evil 2, Jill and Leon will face unique stalker enemies. Jill’s pursuer is rumored to be a monstrous “Goatman,” while Leon’s is a witch-like figure who uses seduction as a tactic.
- Evolved Zombies: Zombies will make a return but with advanced abilities, including melee weapon usage. They are said to be part of a moon-worshiping cult, adding a sinister supernatural vibe.
- Locations: Players can expect diverse environments, including an abandoned hospital, dark forests, caves, and a high-tech lab. The hospital is rumored to be central to the game’s narrative.
Who You’ll Get to Be In Resident Evil 9
While Jill Valentine appears to be the primary focus, Leon Kennedy will also play a significant role. The leaks suggest that Jill’s mission may dominate the storyline, with other characters contributing to specific segments. A playtester hinted that the hospital setting might be the core of Jill’s campaign, featuring locked doors and intricate puzzles.
Gear, Loot, and How It All Works
The inventory system in Resident Evil 9 will resemble the one from Resident Evil 2 Remake. Players can access typewriters to save progress and item boxes for storage. Unlike the suitcase inventory system of Resident Evil 4, the slots will be circular, offering a fresh visual layout.
Key items like green, red, and blue herbs return for healing and status effects. The game will feature a crafting system as well. With this system, you can create ammunition from gunpowder, which also depends on gameplay progress.
Scares and Creepy Vibes of Resident Evil 9
Word on the street is that Resident Evil 9 is going all in on the horror vibes. Think about the creepy tension from Resident Evil 2 Remake mixed with the action-packed intensity of Resident Evil 4 Remake—sounds killer, right? Fluid gameplay, survival mechanics, and those stalker enemies that make your heart race are all part of the mix. And the environments? Dark, eerie, and designed to mess with your nerves.
When It’s Dropping
The game’s working title is said to be Resident Evil 9: Apocalypse, though this could change before its official reveal. Unlike past entries, the logo might exclude Roman numerals, opting for a cleaner presentation.
According to leaks, Capcom plans to reveal the game at The Game Awards in December 2024. The expected release window is between May and July 2025. However, with the looming release of GTA 6 in 2025, a delay to early 2026 is possible to avoid market competition.
Old Faces, New Twists
Fans of the franchise will be thrilled to see familiar faces like Jill, Leon, Chris, and Barry back in action. This time, they’re leaning into more science-based terror, steering clear of the gothic, supernatural feel from Village.
It’s taking us back to those classic Resident Evil vibes—bioengineering nightmares, cult-like creeps—but with a fresh twist. However, it’s set to lean more towards science-based terror, moving away from Resident Evil Village’s gothic and supernatural elements.
What Playtests Are Saying About Resident Evil 9
Playtesting reportedly occurred in April and September 2024, indicating that the game is in advanced development stages. Testers described the gameplay as responsive and fluid, drawing comparisons to Resident Evil 2 Remake. Jill’s faster movement and the overall horror atmosphere received high praise.
What’s Next?
Resident Evil 9 promises to be a thrilling franchise continuation, blending nostalgia with fresh challenges. You’ve got the nostalgia kick with the returning crew, some fresh twists in the story, and gameplay that’s dialed up to keep you on your toes. Just keep an ear out—Capcom will drop some juicy updates soon.