Highlights
Resident Evil 9 could greatly benefit from the inclusion of Leon S. Kennedy, who has become a fan-favorite character in the franchise due to recent remakes.
Leon Kennedy, known for his composed demeanor, has established himself as an exemplary rookie cop, embodying the action hero archetype in the series. His ability to consistently overcome harrowing dangers has made him an iconic figure. The recent remakes have introduced a deeper layer to Leon's persona, enhancing his appeal as a playable character. Furthermore, his character arc holds immense potential for future games, allowing for further development and exploration.
Resident Evil is undeniably one of the most beloved and iconic horror gaming franchises. Since its debut in 1996, it has been at the forefront of the survival horror genre and has given fans countless memorable moments and characters.
Over its impressive 27-year history, Resident Evil has introduced several protagonists who have become legendary figures in the gaming world. These "legacy" characters have taken on the role of the main protagonist multiple times, capturing the hearts of fans. The favorite legacy character varies among fans, depending on their preferred classic Resident Evil entry. However, with recent remakes, Leon S. Kennedy is emerging as a top favorite. This exciting development hints at the possibility of an appearance by Leon in the next mainline Resident Evil game.
It's Time for Leon Kennedy To Make A New Resident Evil Appearance
First introduced in Resident Evil 2 in 1998, Leon S. Kennedy has become one of the most cherished characters in the franchise. Cool, composed, and resourceful, Leon embodies the archetypal hero of a rookie cop, consistently managing to survive harrowing encounters against all odds.
Through the recent remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 4, Leon Kennedy's status as a standout character has been solidified. The remakes have added an additional layer of complexity to his persona, portraying him as a caring yet rebellious figure. This newfound depth has made him even more captivating and enjoyable to play as, without detracting from his original all-action hero identity. While not the most intricate protagonist in gaming, Leon's enhanced characterization in the remakes is a welcome addition that paves the way for future appearances.
In 2017, the release of Resident Evil 7 surprised fans with the appearance of Chris Redfield at the end of the story. Despite needing some improvements in his character model, Chris Redfield's cameo not only satisfied fans but also hinted at exciting things to come. Resident Evil Village prominently featured Chris Redfield in its marketing, although he only appeared a few times during the game. Nevertheless, his presence was worthwhile as he played a vital role in the game's storyline. It is highly likely that Capcom will utilize a similar approach for Resident Evil 9, with Leon Kennedy, a beloved legacy character, taking the spotlight this time.
Leon Kennedy has gained even more popularity than before, thanks to the remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 4. For many newcomers to the franchise, he is likely the most well-known protagonist. Combining this widespread recognition with the enhanced character development seen in the remakes, Leon Kennedy is the perfect choice for a cameo in Resident Evil 9. The last time players encountered Leon Kennedy in the series was in Resident Evil 6, meaning it has been eight in-game years since he was last seen in action. This significant time gap presents a great opportunity for Capcom to explore the potential character growth and the adventures Leon has experienced during that period in a future Resident Evil game.