Capcom has decided to postpone the release of Resident Evil 9 to 2026, according to information from Insider Lustfix. The game, which was originally scheduled to hit the market in the second half of 2025, will go through a longer period of development and technical adjustments. Despite the delay, the official revelation of the title should happen soon, as the marketing strategy was previously defined for a publicity campaign this year.
The decision would have been made after long internal discussions at the company. Capcom already had an established schedule, but chose to reformulate its plans to ensure a more polished product. The exact reasons for the postponement have not yet been clarified, but it is likely that they are related to technical challenges and the desire to raise the overall quality of the game. In addition, external factors, such as the industry's competitive scenario and the high expectations of fans, may have influenced the choice of postponing the release.
Closed tests reveal details of the gameplay of Resident Evil 9
In May 2024, Lustfix said he participated in a closed test of Resident Evil 9, where he played with the character Jill Valentine in an abandoned hospital. The setting was full of zombies and new creatures, reinforcing the climate of terror and characteristic survival of the franchise. Among the enemies, there was a new type of hunter, as well as a dynamic persecutor, similar to Mr. X (Resident Evil 2 Remake) and Nemesis (Resident Evil 3 remake).
According to Insider, the atmosphere of the game greatly resembled Resident Evil 2's remake, one of the most acclaimed titles in the series. This suggests a return to the classic style of Survival Horror, with closed scenarios and elements of psychological tension. The behavior of enemies also indicates an advance in artificial intelligence, making meetings more unpredictable and challenging.
Capcom plans to perform at least two more internal tests over the next six months, suggesting that adjustments are still being made in gameplay. These tests are fundamental to refine mechanics, evaluate combat balance, and adjust the technical performance of the game before the final development phase.
Leon Kennedy returns and Blue Umbrella will play a central role
New information indicates that Resident Evil 9 will feature the return of Leon S. Kennedy, one of the franchise's most iconic characters. Internal marketing material suggests that it will look like Resident Evil 4 remake, but with a more aged look, reinforcing its evolution within the series. His participation in the plot has not yet been detailed, but it is possible that he plays a key role in the narrative.
In addition, Blue Umbrella, an organization introduced in Resident Evil 7, will have great relevance in the plot. The company, which presents itself as a reformulated version of Umbrella original, seems to be involved in new biological experiments. Its role in history can bring important twists, especially for fans who have been following the evolution of the plot since the first games.
Anterior rumors suggested that the story of Resident Evil 9 would address a lunar cult and occult elements. However, according to Lustfix, this will not be the main focus of the game. Although these themes may be present to a lesser extent, the plot seems to focus on a more traditional approach, exploring corporate conspiracies and biological threats, registered brands of the series. The provisional title, Resident Evil: Apocalypse, continues to be discussed internally at Capcom and can become the definitive version of the game name.
Technological change can impact the future of the franchise
One of the most important information recently revealed is that Re Engine, the graphic engine used by Capcom since Resident Evil 7, may be reaching its limit. This means that Resident Evil 9 may be one of the franchise's last games to use this technology before the transition to a new graphic engine, the Rex Engine. This change can represent a visual and technical leap to the next titles of the series, expanding the possibilities of gameplay and immersion.
In addition to graphic evolution, Resident Evil 9 will introduce new combat and strategy mechanics. Among the news are new tactical grenades: a smoke, which can be used to create distractions or hide movements, and a sound, designed to attract or ward off enemies. This addition can make clashes more dynamic, allowing players to adopt more stealth or strategic approaches to dangers.
The postponement of the game may be an indicative that Capcom seeks to deliver an ambitious and refined product. Thus, meeting the expectations of fans and consolidating Resident Evil 9 as one of the most important chapters of the series. With promises of being “the greatest horror of the franchise,” the game should bring a more intense and deepened experience. With this, balancing terror, action and engaging narrative.
Despite prolonged waiting, expectation around Resident Evil 9 continues to grow. With an official revelation scheduled for the coming months and new details gradually emerging, fans of the series have reason to believe that the next title will be a milestone within the franchise.
