![[EXCLUSIVE] Katsuhiro Harada Opens Up About VS Studio, SNK, and What Comes Next](https://cdn.gamerbraves.com/2026/05/Harada-VS-Studio_Interview_FI-1-360x180.jpg)
PlayStation appears to have accidentally leak the return of Leon Kennedy in the upcoming Resident Evil Requiem through an early store listing. Players who pre-ordered the game on PS5 recently received the option to set up automatic pre-downloads. The pre-download screen shows the game will begin downloading on February 25, 2026, two days before its February 27 release date.
The pre-download screen displays an icon featuring main character Grace Ashcroft alongside a large image of Leon Kennedy in the background. Multiple players who pre-ordered the game have shared the image online, and IGN has confirmed the icon appears for pre-order customers.
Playstation for real this time accidentally just leaked Leon in Resident Evil Requiem. Checked with some people to absolutely confirm this was real first, and it is. If you have the standard non-Deluxe Edition of RE9 on PS5, you can see this cover if try to schedule pre-loading. pic.twitter.com/yZv69ecd2u
— AestheticGamer aka Dusk Golem (@AestheticGamer1) December 9, 2025
Leon Kennedy has been a playable character in Resident Evil 2, 4, and 6. His appearance in Requiem, the ninth main entry in the series, has been the subject of rumors for some time. While the store image strongly suggests his return, it doesn’t reveal what role he will play in the game. He could be a fully playable second character, playable only in certain sections, or appear as a non-playable supporting character.
Adding another layer to the story, retailer GameStop posted a listing today for the game’s Deluxe Edition. The listing’s description mentions extra outfits for Rosemary Winters, the daughter of Resident Evil Village protagonist Ethan Winters, who has not been officially announced for the game.
It’s unclear whether Resident Evil Requiem will feature three or more playable characters, or if Leon and Rosemary will serve as non-playable assist characters. The GameStop listing could also contain outdated or incorrect information. With The Game Awards scheduled soon, a new trailer for Resident Evil Requiem is expected to air, which may officially confirm Leon’s return and provide details about Rosemary’s involvement in the game.
