Leon Kennedy, one of the most iconic characters in the Resident Evil franchise, may soon bid farewell to the main storyline. According to insider Aesthetic Gamer, the upcoming Resident Evil 9: Requiem—set for release in February 2026—will mark the character’s last significant appearance in the series. While fans may still catch glimpses of him in CGI films or flashbacks, his role in shaping the core narrative is coming to an end.
The insider suggests the farewell might be marked with a heartfelt, in-universe moment, possibly something akin to “I’m getting too old for this.” This would provide a fitting closure for a character who has been central to the franchise for decades. Leon first appeared in Resident Evil 2, arriving in the virus-stricken Raccoon City. In a poetic twist, Resident Evil 9 returns to that very location—now devastated and lying in ruins—introducing a new protagonist, Grace Ashcroft, an FBI technical analyst and self-described “bookworm.”
While Grace’s motivation is clear—investigating her mother’s mysterious death—it remains uncertain why Leon would return to a city obliterated long ago. The game’s subtitle, Requiem, hints at a thematic farewell, described by developers as a “memorial for those who came before us.” Such a narrative approach could serve as both a tribute to the series’ rich history and a dignified send-off for Leon.
For fans, this potential ending represents more than just the conclusion of a character arc—it signals the close of a chapter that has fueled nostalgia, emotional investment, and record-breaking sales through appearances in Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 6, and their remakes. Each return of Leon brought renewed excitement, drawing both long-time players and newcomers into the survival horror universe.
If the leak proves accurate, Resident Evil 9 might be the last opportunity to experience Leon in a new adventure. As the series transitions into its next era with fresh faces and stories, players may find themselves both mourning and celebrating the legacy of one of gaming’s most beloved heroes. This isn’t just a change—it’s the end of an era for the Resident Evil franchise.
