Is Resident Evil 9 a Thing? Unraveling the Mystery
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is a resounding yes, Resident Evil 9 is almost certainly a thing. While Capcom hasn’t officially announced it yet, all signs point towards its inevitable development and release. From leaks and insider information to the franchise’s established release pattern and Capcom’s own statements, the evidence is compelling. Expect an announcement potentially in late 2024, with a release likely in 2025. The Resident Evil franchise continues to innovate and scare.
The Evidence Mounts: Why We’re Confident in RE9
The confidence in a Resident Evil 9 stems from several key factors:
- Franchise Momentum: The Resident Evil franchise is experiencing a renaissance. The success of Resident Evil 7, Village, and the remakes of 2, 3, and 4 have proven there’s a massive appetite for both new and reimagined experiences. Capcom would be foolish to abandon this momentum.
- Release Patterns: Capcom has established a fairly consistent release pattern for major Resident Evil titles. While there are variations, a new mainline game or remake typically appears every few years. Given Village’s 2021 release, 2025 fits the pattern perfectly.
- Insider Leaks and Rumors: Numerous reputable leakers within the gaming industry have claimed that Resident Evil 9 is in development. Some even suggest it has been in development since 2018, indicating a substantial project.
- Capcom’s Hints: While not outright confirmations, Capcom executives have made comments that strongly imply Resident Evil 9 is on the horizon. They understand the fanbase’s expectations and wouldn’t make such remarks without a reason.
- Financial Incentives: Ultimately, game development is a business. The Resident Evil franchise is a major money-maker for Capcom. Continuing the series with Resident Evil 9 is a logical and financially sound decision.
What to Expect (and Not Expect) from Resident Evil 9
While specifics remain under wraps, we can speculate about what Resident Evil 9 might entail based on previous games and emerging trends:
- Return of Classic Characters: Expect at least one, if not several, returning characters. While the focus might shift to a new protagonist, the inclusion of familiar faces like Leon S. Kennedy, Claire Redfield, or Chris Redfield can significantly boost hype and player engagement.
- New Gameplay Mechanics: Each mainline Resident Evil game typically introduces new gameplay mechanics or refines existing ones. Resident Evil 9 might experiment with more open-world elements, expanded crafting systems, or innovative approaches to horror.
- A Standalone Story (Mostly): While Resident Evil games often connect through overarching lore and character relationships, each installment generally tells a self-contained story. Expect Resident Evil 9 to introduce a new threat and location, even if it ties into the broader Resident Evil universe.
- Continued Emphasis on Horror: Despite the increasing action elements in some Resident Evil titles, the core of the franchise remains rooted in horror. Expect Resident Evil 9 to deliver a terrifying and suspenseful experience.
- The End of the Winters’ Saga: Based on Capcom’s statements, it seems unlikely that Resident Evil 9 will directly involve Ethan Winters or his daughter Rose. The Shadows of Rose DLC was intended to conclude their story arc.
Resident Evil and Learning
The world of video games is vast, and there are always new ideas and methods of playing and learning being devised. Visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the intersection of learning and video games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Resident Evil 9
Here are answers to some of the most pressing questions surrounding Resident Evil 9:
Is Resident Evil 9 confirmed?
No, Resident Evil 9 is not officially confirmed by Capcom. However, due to numerous factors that suggest it’s in active development, it’s highly likely to happen.
When will Resident Evil 9 be released?
Based on previous release patterns and current rumors, a 2025 release is the most probable timeframe. An announcement in late 2024 could pave the way for a summer 2025 launch.
Will Resident Evil 9 be about Ethan Winters?
Probably not. Capcom has stated that the “Winters family saga” concluded with the Shadows of Rose DLC, making it unlikely that Ethan or Rose will be the main characters in Resident Evil 9.
Will Leon return in Resident Evil 9?
It’s possible. Classic characters like Leon, Claire, and Chris are fan favorites and often make appearances in mainline Resident Evil games. His inclusion would be a significant draw for many players.
Will Mia be in Resident Evil 9?
It’s unlikely. Mia’s role in Resident Evil Village was relatively small, and her involvement in the Shadows of Rose DLC was minimal. Unless the story directly involves Chris Redfield, her inclusion seems improbable.
How is Mia still alive in Resident Evil 7 and Village?
In Resident Evil 7, Ethan cures Mia of her infection, and they escape together. In Resident Evil Village, the “Mia” Chris shoots is actually Miranda in disguise, having kidnapped the real Mia.
Why was Mia shot in Resident Evil Village?
The “Mia” shot by Chris was actually Mother Miranda, the main antagonist, disguised as Mia. She needed to replace Mia to get close to Rose.
What happened to Leon and Claire after Resident Evil 6?
Claire continued her search for Chris, while Leon and Sherry were rescued by the U.S. military. Their stories continue in other Resident Evil games and media, including the remake of Resident Evil 2.
Is Leon immune to the T-Virus?
No, Leon is not immune to the T-Virus. He simply hasn’t been infected in the canonical storyline.
Will we ever see Leon again in a Resident Evil game?
Yes. Leon appears in the 2023 CG animated film Resident Evil: Death Island. Moreover, he is likely to reappear in a main title Resident Evil game as well.
Will Resident Evil 9 be about Rose?
Again, it’s unlikely. Capcom has indicated that Rose’s story was concluded in the Shadows of Rose DLC.
Who is rumored to be the main character in Resident Evil 9?
Rumors suggest that Chris Redfield could be the main character, with the potential for other classic characters to play significant roles.
Is Ethan still alive at the end of Resident Evil Village and the DLC?
At the end of Resident Evil Village, Ethan sacrifices himself to destroy the Megamycete. While the ending is ambiguous, he is seemingly dead. His appearance at the end of the DLC can be interpreted in various ways.
How long has Resident Evil 9 been in development?
Some leaks claim that Resident Evil 9 has been in development since 2018, suggesting a potentially long and ambitious development cycle.
Are Resident Evil 7, 8, and 9 a trilogy?
While Capcom producers initially hinted that Resident Evil Village would conclude Ethan’s journey, there were earlier indications that the story was part of a planned trilogy. How that plan has evolved since those initial statements remains unclear.
The Future Looks Horrifyingly Bright
While we await official confirmation from Capcom, the evidence strongly suggests that Resident Evil 9 is indeed on its way. With a likely release in 2025, fans can eagerly anticipate a new chapter in the legendary horror franchise. Keep an eye out for announcements in late 2024, and prepare to face new horrors and familiar faces in the world of Resident Evil.