All eyes are on Resident Evil Requiem, and Leon Kennedy is the one drawing the most attention.
Over the last few weeks, an alleged “confidential document” popped up on 4chan before spreading to Reddit and other corners of the internet, supposedly revealing a grizzled new look for the fan-favorite character.
The images depicted Leon with gray in his hair and beard, an eyepatch on his face, and a monstrous two-headed Licker next to him.
The file described Capcom’s approach using biological modeling and high-end rendering. It seemed convincing at first, but it was false.
The rumor was debunked by AestheticGamer (aka Dusk Golem). He outright called the image “fake,” saying he doesn’t enjoy shooting down every rumor one by one, but this one was too obvious to ignore.
The claim that the eyepatch Leon and bizarre Licker screenshot were real simply didn’t add up.
Could Leon Still Be in Resident Evil Requiem?
Still, the story doesn’t end there, as even if the picture was fabricated, the idea of Leon returning isn’t without basis.
According to Dusk Golem, Leon could end up being a major figure in Requiem, possibly even one of the playable leads alongside Grace Ashcroft.
A theory claims the game will alternate between Grace’s and Leon’s perspectives. Some view the game as Leon’s farewell and the end of the Umbrella storyline.
The leak spread quickly because it confirmed what fans already wanted to believe. Leon has been one of the most iconic characters in the series since his debut in Resident Evil 2.
Fans are convinced he’ll be back in Requiem, especially with Capcom dodging the subject.
Grace Ashcroft continues to headline the official trailers, but with Leon missing, many assume he’s being saved for a showcase reveal at an event such as TGS or a State of Play.
When fans are primed for his comeback, even a poorly lit screenshot can feel convincing.
What Gave Away That the Leak Was Fake?
The claim doesn’t hold up, as the so-called Leon image is essentially a Big Boss copy with minor tweaks.
It resembles the kind of thing fans might cook up online rather than what would appear in the game.
Many in the community said it was ridiculous that Leon still had the same 1998 haircut almost 30 years later, just with some gray.
The overblown claims and sloppy formatting made the so-called “internal document” feel more like fan fiction than a genuine Capcom file.
The image may be fake, but Leon’s comeback is still very much in play. Sources suggest he could be a co-lead, and with the release nearing, Capcom won’t hide him much longer.
Fans will soon get their answer, whether Leon appears older and worn down or in a design that stays true to his roots.
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