I've finished it three times, and Resident Evil Requiem walks a dangerous line between nostalgia and reboot

February 25, 2026 - 21:09

The highly anticipated Resident Evil: Requiem has arrived, promising a potent blend of classic survival horror and modern reinvention. For many fans, the return of Leon S. Kennedy is a direct conduit back to the hallowed, zombie-infested streets of Raccoon City. This sequel masterfully taps into that deep well of nostalgia, recreating the oppressive atmosphere and desperate resource management that defined the franchise's golden era.

However, Requiem walks a dangerous and fascinating line. It doesn't merely recreate the past; it actively deconstructs it. Familiar locations are revisited only to be dramatically altered or destroyed, and long-held narrative truths are questioned. This approach creates a thrilling tension. The comfort of recognition is constantly undermined by shocking new twists, ensuring players are never resting on nostalgic laurels.

This bold strategy is a double-edged knife. While it prevents the experience from feeling like a simple retread, it risks alienating purists who crave a faithful recreation. Ultimately, Requiem succeeds by using our fond memories as a foundation, not a cage. It evokes the poignant terror of the original games while bravely asserting its own identity, proving that even the most cherished horrors can be reshaped into something both familiar and terrifyingly new. The result is a compelling, if occasionally divisive, chapter that honors legacy while demanding its own.