Resident Evil: Requiem Gamescom 2025

Gamescom 2025 was packed with big name horror titles, making it a must visit event for fans of survival horror. Among them, the 20 minute demo of Resident Evil Requiem stood out as one of the most important experiences available to attendees; though I have to admit, it left me kind of disappointed.

The demo begins with you stepping into the shoes of an FBI agent named Grace Ashcroft, who wakes up inside a hospital. From the very first moments, the complete silence of the building taps into a very real phobia for many people. Known as Sedatephobia – the fear of silence or overly quiet environments – it shows that Capcom isn’t just relying on setting and atmosphere, but also on psychological fears to shape a terrifying experience.

Visually, the demo is nothing short of stunning, setting a new benchmark for other games in the genre. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the hospital’s atmosphere owes its atmosphere largely to its masterful lighting and color design. This sense of realism makes the fear hit even harder.

Capcom has a long tradition of unleashing relentless pursuers that keep you on edge throughout the game. From Mr. X to Nemesis, fans know the drill: you’re being hunted. That legacy continues here, but with a twist; The creature is extremely sensitive to light. What surprised me most was the lack of firearms. Instead, survival hinged on makeshift tools like bottles and lighters, with gameplay leaning heavily on stealth and escape rather than direct combat.

Another interesting aspect is the ability to switch between first-person and third-person perspectives. While both modes are available, I personally felt that the game was built with first-person in mind. Even though the levels are fully playable in third-person, the intensity of fear in first-person is in a completely different league, and simply doesn’t compare.

All that said, those who embraced the newer direction of Resident Evil with parts 7 and Village will likely find Requiem a dream come true. But for die-hard fans of Resident Evil 4 and the over-the-shoulder style, there may be reason for concern. That said, it’s hard to judge an entire game based on a 20-minute demo. I can only hope that the final product delivers an experience that can satisfy every corner of the fanbase.