Capcom comments on possible Resident Evil Requiem demo before release date, and returning characters

The Resident Evil Requiem demo at Gamescom 2025 was one of the show’s most frequented booths. Still, some fans are clamoring for an opportunity to play the survival horror game at home. IGN recently asked the title’s director and producer about the prospects of a downloadable demo.

Unfortunately, Resident Evil Requiem director Koshi Nakanishi won’t commit to a demo. Capcom says it’s “monitoring the feedback of people who are playing the game at events, and we're going to take that into consideration when we decide our next steps”. If attendees have their way, they will be able to experience the title in some form again before it arrives on February 27th, 2026.

The history of Resident Evil games also suggests that a trial of some type is likely. A Japan-exclusive demo in the series existed as early as its first entry in 1996. More recently, in 2022, Resident Evil Village players on multiple platforms were able to preview the game. Also, the gory Chainsaw Demo gave gamers an idea of what to expect with the 2023 Resident Evil 4 Remake.

Players may not see a demo until closer to the Resident Evil Requiem release date. Many of the prior downloads didn’t appear until a few weeks before the titles shipped.

How many beloved characters will make cameos in Requiem?

The IGN interview also touched on whether characters from previous survival horror games would reappear. Rumors have swirled about a Leon S. Kennedy appearance, potentially bringing his story to a conclusion.

Neither Nakanishi nor producer Masato Kumazawa would reveal any surprises. Instead, they contend that the fear of the inexperienced FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft will resonate with players. That said, even though Resident Evil Requiem is not a remake, Capcom recognizes the importance of continuity. With Grace’s mother, Alyssa, returning, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Leon surface at some point.