With Capcom riding high on the success of recent Resident Evil titles and remakes – even though there has been no new title in 2024 – the anticipation for Resident Evil 9 is at an all-time high. Since Resident Evil Village wrapped up the Winters family’s story, fans have been clamouring for what’s next. Resident Evil 9 remains unannounced officially, but credible rumours and insider leaks have offered a look at what could be Capcom’s most ambitious survival horror game to date.
Release Date
Originally rumoured for January 2025, the release date for Resident Evil 9 has reportedly shifted to late 2025 or even 2026. The game has supposedly been in development since 2018, making it one of the longest-developed titles in the series’ history. This extended timeline, and the possibility of a late 2025 or 2026 release, also aligns with the franchise’s 30th anniversary, a significant milestone that Capcom may want to celebrate with a flagship release.
Setting: A Remote, Mythical Island
Rumours suggest that Resident Evil 9 will take place on a fictional rural island inspired by Southeast Asian locales, particularly Singapore. This secluded island in the South China Sea will likely provide an eerie, atmospheric backdrop reminiscent of classic Resident Evil titles. Reports indicate that Capcom may also incorporate a castle as a central location, evoking memories of iconic settings like Ramon Salazar’s castle from Resident Evil 4 and Lady Dimitrescu’s manor in Village. These environments are expected to heighten the sense of isolation and dread that the franchise is known for.
Characters: The Return of Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine
The protagonist lineup has stirred significant speculation, with Chris Redfield potentially taking the lead. This instalment is rumoured to be Chris’s final outing as a protagonist, concluding his long-running role in the franchise. Jill Valentine is also rumoured to make a return, possibly in a supporting role akin to Ada Wong’s presence in Resident Evil 4 – a blend of ally and mystery that could add intriguing layers to the narrative.
While earlier leaks speculated about Ethan Winters’ daughter, Rose, as a playable character, recent reports suggest that Capcom may prioritise the classic characters of Chris and Jill. However, the choice remains unconfirmed, leaving room for fan speculation.
Antagonists and Mythology: The Wendigo and Folklore-Based Horror
Resident Evil 9 may introduce the Wendigo, a creature from North American folklore known for its supernatural powers and terrifying appearance. This mythological entity, often depicted as a grotesque human-turned-cannibalistic monster with animalistic traits, aligns well with Resident Evil’s penchant for body horror. The Wendigo’s rumoured inclusion suggests that Resident Evil 9 will delve even deeper into horror folklore, blending the supernatural with grotesque realism.
Other folklore-inspired creatures and mutants are expected to populate the island, building on Village’s use of folklore (like vampires) but in a grittier, more terrifying way. Additionally, reports hint that some enemies may disguise themselves as friendly NPCs, adding an element of paranoia to the gameplay.
Gameplay Mechanics: A Blend of First and Third-Person Perspectives
Like Resident Evil Village, Resident Evil 9 might offer both first and third-person perspectives, possibly from the start. The ability to choose between these views could cater to fans of both styles, maintaining the immersive horror of first-person while allowing the nostalgia of third-person exploration. Additionally, some open-world elements are rumoured, hinting at a semi-open environment that encourages exploration while keeping the intense, claustrophobic atmosphere of classic Resident Evil games intact.
Title and Narrative Direction: Resident Evil: Apocalypse?
Insiders suggest the working title Resident Evil: Apocalypse, which would align with the game’s rumoured thematic focus on apocalyptic horror and mythological monsters. This title hints at a climactic entry, intended as the final instalment in the recent trilogy (spanning Resident Evil 7, Village, and Resident Evil 9). The narrative is rumoured to close out multiple story arcs, bridging past entries while setting the stage for new directions in future games.
Budget, Technology, and Development
Resident Evil 9 is reportedly Capcom’s highest-budget project for the series, utilizing an upgraded RE Engine, nicknamed the REX Engine, which promises improved graphics and functionalities for next-gen hardware. This instalment is expected to push visual boundaries while offering the longest development timeline in Resident Evil history. Capcom’s commitment to blending innovation with classic horror gameplay speaks to the studio’s ambition for Resident Evil 9.
Zombies and Body Horror
While Resident Evil 9 promises new creatures inspired by mythology, zombies – an iconic element of the series – are expected to return in a limited capacity. The game will likely reintroduce body horror elements, with mutated creatures designed to evoke fear through grotesque transformations. This could be like Village’s vampires but with a darker, more twisted approach, echoing classic Resident Evil horror.
Fan Expectations and Community Speculation
The Resident Evil fan community is buzzing with anticipation for an official announcement, fuelled by these recurring leaks. Capcom has yet to confirm any of these details, so fans should approach these rumours cautiously. If the reports hold true, Resident Evil 9 could be one of the most ambitious titles in the franchise, combining classic horror elements with new, mythological threats in a richly atmospheric setting.
As gaming conventions approach, fans hope for a reveal trailer or teaser, and many anticipate Resident Evil 9 could be a defining chapter that both concludes the current narrative arc and paves the way for future entries.
In summary, Resident Evil 9 is shaping up to be a monumental entry in the series, potentially blending mythology, folklore, and classic Resident Evil horror with new technological advancements and narrative ambitions. Only time will tell if these rumours hold true, but the excitement surrounding Resident Evil 9 shows no signs of slowing down.