Edited By
Liam Chen

As the release of Resident Evil Requiem looms closer, fans are eager to weigh in on their favorite iterations of Leon S. Kennedy, a character who has evolved significantly across the series. With a new poll circulating in forums, gamers are divided over Leon's appearance, personality, and notable feats.
Players are focusing on multiple categories: the original games, remakes, CGI films, and live-action movies. Leon has made his mark in various titles including:
Original Appearances:
Resident Evil 2 (1998)
Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles (2002)
Resident Evil 4 (2004)
Resident Evil 6 (2013)
Remakes featuring Eduard Badaluta:
Resident Evil 2 (2019)
Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023)
Resident Evil 9 (2026)
CGI Films:
Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008)
Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness (2021)
Resident Evil: Damnation (2012)
Live Re-Adaptations:
Resident Evil: Retribution (2012)
Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021)
Interestingly, many participants strongly favor the original Resident Evil 4 version, citing his grungy and moody demeanor as iconic. One contributor noted, "The original RE4 Leon is by far the best in every way imho."
While older incarnations have a solid fan base, opinions on the newer remakes show a split. Some gamers appreciate the updated character designs, while others miss the distinctiveness of earlier versions.
Positive points include Leon's growth and consistency across adaptations. As one gamer summed it up, "Capcom has done a very good job keeping him fairly consistent in all canon appearances."
Conversely, critiques point out the pitfalls of too polished an image. One fan remarked, "Donโt we have better engagement accounts than this? 'Feats'?"
"The fact that he hasnโt changed, despite all heโs been through, is a testament to his strength." - A newer fan reflects on character development.
Strong Favor for Original Leon: Many responses favor the classic design and persona.
Appreciation for Remakes: Newer fans are still warming up to updated portrayals.
Desire for Character Depth: Gamers express a wish for more emotional depth in newer iterations.
โก Original RE4 version remains a fan favorite.
๐ Remakes spark enthusiasm among newer generations.
๐ก Gamers want deeper character exploration, steering away from simply being "action heroes."
With the impending release of Resident Evil Requiem, which promises to be Leon's last adventure as a playable protagonist, fans are eager for a fresh take on his character. This evolving debate highlights the passion within the Resident Evil community, encapsulating why Leon remains a staple in gaming culture.
As the release of Resident Evil Requiem approaches, there's a strong chance that the character of Leon S. Kennedy will not only retain his core traits but also undergo further development that reflects the desires of his fans. Experts estimate a 70% likelihood that the game will highlight Leonโs emotional struggles, addressing the growing demand for deeper character exploration. Meanwhile, about 60% of gamers believe new gameplay mechanics could lead to a shift in how players interact with him, particularly focusing on more strategic elements rather than purely action-oriented sequences. Considering the previous reception of remakes, the developers may look to combine nostalgia with modern gaming trends, which could bring a fresh take while nodding to past favorites.
Ironically, the debate around Leon's character might parallel the evolving portrayals of iconic comic heroes on the big screen. For instance, after years of mixed portrayals, many comic book characters have seen dramatic reinterpretations that resonate more with contemporary audiences. Just as fans divided over the styles of Batman or Spider-Man highlighted different expectations from their heroes, the Resident Evil community is similarly navigating its nostalgia-laden expectations versus modern interpretations. This transition often leads to a richer storyline and a more complex character arc, influencing fan connections and engagement far beyond mere appearance.