The creators of Resident Evil 9 Requiem recently discussed their approach to character selection in horror games.
The director mentioned that Leon Kennedy, a fan-favorite, may not be the ideal protagonist for terrifying experiences anymore. His journey has made him too seasoned and unafraid. Players expect him to tackle any challenge with ease, which diminishes the tension and fear that are essential for horror.
This puts developers in a tough spot. Creating suspense and fear is important for engaging horror gameplay. If the main character seems too capable in facing monsters and perilous scenarios, it can reduce the player’s thrills and frights.
The director pointed out that audiences are less inclined to see Leon scared, as his character has become almost invincible. This raises a fascinating question for the future of the Resident Evil series — how can you maintain genuine horror when your lead has already faced countless horrors?
What do you think about this situation? Can seasoned characters like Leon still fit into horror games, or should developers aim for newer, less seasoned characters to keep that essential tension alive?