Resident Evil 9 is on the way! Over nearly three decades, the Resident Evil franchise has transformed the survival horror genre, and as we approach the release of Resident Evil 9, anticipation has reached unprecedented levels. Following the successful launch of the Resident Evil 4 Remake in 2023, there is significant pressure on Capcom to deliver yet another groundbreaking title. Early leaks indicate that Resident Evil 9 may feature the series' first open-world setup. Will it make or break the horror game genre with next-gen graphics and a darker storyline?
The latest remakes of Capcom's Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, and Resident Evil 4 have established a new standard for horror reboots. The Resident Evil 4 Remake topped the sales charts, selling over 7 million copies before mid-2024. This success supports the idea that people are drawn to nostalgia but also appreciate new concepts.
For Resident Evil 9 to replicate this remarkable success, it needs to blend fresh ideas with the core mechanics of the original games while maintaining the series' fundamentals. Industry experts also foresee Capcom incorporating procedural horror elements into the game's development, allowing for varying scenarios based on player behaviour.
Release Window: Reports say late 2025, according to Capcom's fiscal guidelines.
Gameplay: Concept art leaks suggest semi-open environments, with some degree of exploration a la Resident Evil Village and heavy action a la Resident Evil 4.
Story: A Reddit leak states that Chris Redfield might face another bioweapon outbreak in Eastern Europe.
The Resident Evil community can be challenging to navigate. Half of the fans want the series to focus on pure survival horror, while the other half prefers a broader combat experience within the game world. In a recent poll conducted by IGN, 62% of fans expressed a preference for slow-paced terror over action-heavy sequences. Capcom needs to optimise Resident Evil 9 for current-generation consoles, ensuring smooth performance on the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The franchise's history offers a strong foundation for development, but Capcom needs to think innovatively to compete with titles like the Silent Hill 2 Remake and Alone in the Dark (2025). If Resident Evil 9 can successfully combine immersive horror, fair gameplay, and a compelling story, it might be recognized as the premier horror title of 2025.
Resident Evil 9 is set to deliver an intense climax, with the potential to either embrace the classic elements of survival horror or redefine them entirely. The strong reputation of Capcom's recent remakes indicates that the game is likely to be another breathtaking masterpiece. The key question is not whether it will succeed, but rather how it will navigate its path towards success. Fans should brace themselves for a thrilling experience: 2025 is going to be a terrifying year.