Resident Evil Requiem Review: A Synthesis of Fear and Silicon

We were never really massive fans of the Resident Evil series. For whatever reason, the constant backtracking, solving puzzles in a suffocating world full of overpowered monsters, and perpetual ammo scarcity simply weren’t our magic formula for a good time. We tried parts two and three, then skipped ahead to seven and Village, but something just never clicked—and we never managed to finish any of them.

Requiem, however, is a completely different story. This is a game we neither could nor wanted to put down. The characters, the plot, and the world gripped us to such an extent that we didn’t touch anything else all weekend. Requiem is our very first Resident Evil title that we have absolute love for.

Capcom’s latest release is a complex study of how modern technology can revitalize classic concepts in the gaming industry. Returning to this iconic universe of biological catastrophes is marked this time by an ambitious narrative approach and an impressive generational technical leap. The game is also absolute proof that the PS5 Pro shouldn’t be underestimated; on the contrary, it confirms that this is an exceptionally capable console that can render true visual horror in its purest possible form.

Review code for this title was kindly provided by CD Media.

Key Features:

  • Hardware Superiority (PS5 Pro): The integration of PSSR technology delivers unmatched sharpness with options for 4K/60fps or 120fps for extreme fluidity.
  • Design Dichotomy: The campaign offers two perspectives—methodical, claustrophobic resource-focused horror and adrenaline-fueled, tactical combat.
  • Spatial Acoustic Engineering: 3D audio acts as a critical gameplay mechanic for pinpointing threats.
  • Narrative Revolution: Redefines the franchise’s history through a political conspiracy leading to two drastically different endings based on your final choice.
  • Commercial Triumph: A historic franchise record with over 314,000 concurrent players (or in other words: the world agrees the game is really good).

The story in Resident Evil Requiem is skillfully divided into two separate, yet thematically intertwined campaigns. The first campaign follows Grace, a young federal analyst, and relies on the traditional, methodical approach characteristic of the survival horror genre. Inventory is strictly limited, demanding careful management of the resources you gather and consume. An innovative crafting system (Blood Crafting) for making resources, weapons, and tools requires processing biological materials through specialized laboratory equipment. While not overly complex, it introduces interesting new ways to manage your limited arsenal.

Grace is a fragile and innocent character desperately trying to survive the horror surrounding her. Over time, you will thoroughly learn not only her strengths and weaknesses, but those of your enemies as well. This is crucial for knowing precisely how to move and react when things spiral out of control. And believe us, that happens quite often—which makes those the best moments in the game. The opening hours with Grace, the feeling of absolute terror, and her desperate attempts to survive are masterfully captured. The backtracking through familiar locations is so intelligently designed and scripted that we were constantly pleasantly surprised by the developers’ effort to keep it from feeling monotonous.

On the other hand, the second protagonist, seasoned veteran operative Leon S. Kennedy, offers an entirely different gameplay paradigm geared toward fluid action and kinetic combat. While Grace is no pushover in challenging situations, Leon is her exact opposite—an unstoppable force utilizing advanced tactical maneuvers and a specialized parrying axe. Although his segment is mechanically flawless, it steps away from survival horror roots and introduces an entirely new dimension focused on cinematic action. The dominance of an explosive arsenal and “gun-fu” style maneuvers position this section much closer to an action blockbuster than a vulnerability-based horror experience. And that is completely fine. Resident Evil Requiem feels like two phenomenal games seamlessly fused into one, delivering extraordinary and unforgettable entertainment.

Narratively, the entire campaign takes a significant departure by shifting the focus from isolated horror incidents to a much broader, global political conspiracy orchestrated by a secret organization. As a result, it delivers a skillfully expanded storyline that brilliantly weaves Grace’s personal tragedy together with Leon’s investigation. The transition of fear—from biological mutations to institutional corruption—is refreshing, masterfully elevating a simple horror motif into a complex thriller of epic proportions.

PS5 Pro: True Gaming Bliss

The PS5 Pro version not only looks spectacular, but offers an incomparable gaming experience. The advanced AI-based upscaling system generates exceptional graphical sharpness, setting brand-new standards in the console world. The powerful Pro architecture allows real-time rendering of even the smallest details. Precise street asphalt textures, complex water reflections during rain scenes, and subtle environmental imperfections are rendered with a flawless, photorealistic quality.

The experience is perfectly complemented by the DualSense controller, which faithfully translates every on-screen event—from subtle raindrops and Leon’s heavy footsteps to brutal enemy takedowns. Combined with the advantages of 3D spatial audio through compatible headphones, the overall immersion is elevated to a whole new level.

Masterpiece of a Game

When all is said and done, Resident Evil Requiem stands out as a true masterpiece that pulled off the impossible: turning long-time skeptics into absolute fans. The game brilliantly walks the fine line between methodical, claustrophobic survival horror via Grace’s vulnerability and Leon’s kinetic, adrenaline-pumping action, creating a dynamic flow that never grows stale. This masterfully crafted blend of intimate dread and a complex political thriller is wrapped in absolute technical perfection.

By leveraging the full potential of the PS5 Pro—from photorealistic graphics and PSSR technology to the tactile magic of the DualSense and chillingly precise 3D audio—Requiem crafts an atmosphere that leaves no one indifferent. Whether you are a hardcore franchise veteran or someone who, like us, previously struggled to connect with this universe, this is an absolute must-play recommendation—a triumph of modern technology and game design, and an experience you simply cannot miss.

Game Details

  • Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
  • Publisher: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
  • Genre: Survival Horror / Action
  • Platform: Microsoft Windows, Consoles
  • Release Date: February 27, 2026

Scores

  • Overall Score: 10 / 10
  • Story: 10
  • Gameplay: 10
  • Graphics: 10
  • Sound & Music: 10

About the Author

Martin Jovanchevski is an independent games journalist and Founder & Editor at Dev & Play Media. This article is an English adaptation of his original review published on it mk.


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