Resident Evil 9 Is Bold, Brutal, and Surprisingly Different
The latest entry in Capcom’s legendary horror franchise is finally here, and Resident Evil 9 is already sparking serious debate among fans. Early hands-on impressions suggest this installment is doing something very different with the formula—splitting the experience between two drastically different playstyles. One side leans into slow, nerve-wracking horror, while the other cranks the action up to levels the series has rarely attempted before.
Two Characters, Two Completely Different Games
One of the most noticeable changes in Resident Evil 9 is the dual-protagonist structure. Players switch between Leon S. Kennedy and a new character named Grace, and the contrast between their gameplay styles is dramatic.
Grace’s sections feel like classic survival horror. Resources are limited, enemies are terrifying, and every hallway feels dangerous. Exploration, puzzles, and stealth play a huge role, with players sometimes choosing between crafting ammunition or creating tools for silent takedowns. That slow, methodical pacing brings back the tension longtime fans associate with earlier entries in the franchise.
Leon, on the other hand, delivers the exact opposite experience.
Leon’s Campaign Goes All-In on Action
When the game shifts to Leon, the tone flips instantly. His segments throw players into chaotic scenarios filled with enemies, explosions, and high-powered weapons. Combat is faster and more aggressive, with Leon able to kick, throw, and overpower enemies in ways that feel closer to the spectacle-driven combat of Resident Evil 4.
One standout moment drops Leon into a room packed with zombies and a running chainsaw lying on the floor. Either Leon or the enemies can grab it, turning the entire encounter into a frantic fight for control of the weapon. It’s chaotic, brutal, and a clear sign that this game isn’t afraid to push the action side of the franchise much further than usual.
For players who enjoy over-the-top combat, these sections can be incredibly satisfying.
A Bold Experiment With Pacing
The real question is whether this dual approach works across an entire game. Switching between Grace’s slow, tension-filled exploration and Leon’s explosive combat creates a pacing shift that can feel jarring at times. One moment you’re carefully sneaking past enemies with limited ammo, and the next you’re smashing zombies through walls.
Still, there’s an interesting rhythm to it. After surviving Grace’s nerve-wracking sections, Leon’s action-heavy moments almost feel like a release valve—letting players unleash some chaos before diving back into horror.
Whether fans ultimately prefer this approach over the balance found in earlier entries remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Resident Evil 9 isn’t afraid to experiment.
Your Turn
Capcom has built a reputation for reinventing the series while still honoring its roots, and Resident Evil 9 might be its boldest experiment yet.
Do you like the idea of mixing pure survival horror with full-blown action, or would you rather see the series stick closer to the balance of previous games? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation. 🧟♂️🎮
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