Resident Evil Requiem Director Addresses Open-World Rumors

For months leading up to the February launch of Resident Evil Requiem, speculation has been swirling about the game being “open-world.” While that would mark a notable departure from the series’ traditional format, director Koshi Nakanishi has clarified that players shouldn’t expect this feature in Requiem.

Nakanishi addressed the rumors, stating, “The development team wanted to make one point clear. They’ve seen speculation about open-world elements in the game, and they want to set the record straight that this isn’t an open-world game.”

He elaborated, “The main concept behind this game is to blend the distinct gameplay styles of Grace and Leon into a unified experience, showcasing both characters as representatives of the Resident Evil series. When you play the game, you’ll see that the development team chose the best approach to achieve this.”

The gaming community has been captivated by open-world design for years, craving more freedom and expansive environments. However, the idea of Requiem adopting an open-world format didn’t resonate well with long-time Resident Evil fans who appreciate the series’ linear and tightly woven narratives. The horror elements of Resident Evil are deeply tied to its design, and an open world would drastically alter the player experience. Recent footage featuring a bustling city street with cars and pedestrians fueled some of this speculation, but Nakanishi’s comments have put those rumors to rest.

In a preview, it was noted that Grace’s segments in the game should feel “familiar to anyone who has played Resident Evil 2 or 7,” while Leon’s parts evoke memories of playing Resident Evil 4.

Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth main installment in the franchise, is set to launch on February 27. The last entry, Resident Evil Village, was released in 2021.