The official artwork for *Resident Evil Requiem* was accidentally leaked on PlayStation Store on December 9, 2025, confirming the presence of Leon S. The image, which appeared in the pre-download section for those who purchased the standard version of the game for PS5, shows the iconic character highlighted.
Leon appears alongside the protagonist Claire Redfield, suggesting a significant role in the narrative. The incident occurred two days before the The Game Awards 2025 ceremony, scheduled for December 11, where Capcom is expected to reveal more details of the project.
The leak generated months of speculation in the fan community, who eagerly awaited concrete information about the new chapter in the franchise. Capcom, until now, remains silent about what happened.
PS Store leak reveals details
Capcom inadvertently uploaded the image to the digital store, allowing users who pre-ordered to access the art. The image displays Leon S. Kennedy towering over Claire Redfield, which may indicate a possible conflict or complex dynamic between the characters.
Following the rapid dissemination of screenshots online, PlayStation acted promptly to remove access to the image, but the content had already been widely circulated.
Leon S. Kennedy and his role in the game
Leon S. Kennedy is one of the most beloved characters in the series *Resident Sua’s presence in *Requiem* reinforces the expectation of a return to the franchise’s roots, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026.
It is speculated that Leon could be a playable character, similar to his participation in *Resident Evil 4*, where his acumen and combat skills were crucial. The need for a character with the caliber of Leon is seen as essential for a plot that promises to be central and engaging.
Capcom had previously labeled previous leaks about the game as “fake news”, but the artwork revealed at PS Store had already been circulating in rumors for months. Para that *Resident Evil Requiem* really rescues the essence of the series, a protagonist like Leon would be fundamental.
Other recent rumors and speculation
The wave of leaks surrounding *Resident Evil Requiem* began at Summer Game Fest this year, fueling discussions among insiders about the possibility of multiple playable characters. The official 2025 reveal, however, only focused on Claire Redfield.
Jill Valentine was also the subject of speculation, but without concrete details about her involvement. A previous leak, coming from a GameStop PC listing, mentioned a skin pack for Rose Winters at Deluxe Edition, suggesting that it could also have a role in gameplay.
Anticipation for The Game Awards 2025
The broadcast of The Game Awards 2025 is scheduled for December 11th, at 9:30 pm (Brasília time). The main host of the event had already teased fans with the mention of a “preview of Resident Evil Requiem”, raising expectations.
It’s likely that a full trailer will be shown during the event, perhaps showing Leon in action shortly after the reveal. Capcom appears to be behind a massive reveal campaign for the title, which has been generating buzz for a long time.
The fan community eagerly awaits an official confirmation on stage, hoping that the event will bring answers about the plot and gameplay of *Resident Evil Requiem*.
The connection between Leon and Claire
*Resident
Since *Resident Evil 2*, Leon has become an icon, often involved in high-risk government projects. Sua’s appearance in *Requiem* solidifies the idea of an imminent battle in a desperate struggle, where he will once again prove himself essential.
Claire, in turn, takes center stage, indicating that she will face difficult choices and unprecedented dangers. The balance between the two characters should define the game experience, which is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, on the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC and Nintendo Switch 2 platforms.
Reactions from the community and insiders
Internally, insider Dusk Golem speculated that this title would be a spin-off of the main series. Comentários like “if I wasn’t told to assume, I would assume it’s a spin-off” were made before the leak was confirmed.
Discussion forums are full of theories about the possibility of dual playable characters, a feature that always pleases fans. The anticipation for TGA is palpable as Capcom tries to balance privacy with inevitable online exposure.
