After Resident Evil 9: Will Leon Kennedy Be Written Out Of The Series?

James

3 min read

Post on Aug 14, 2025

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After Resident Evil 9: Will Leon Kennedy Be Written Out of the Series?

The fate of Leon S. Kennedy, a Resident Evil mainstay, hangs in the balance after the anticipated release of Resident Evil 9. Fans are buzzing with speculation: will Capcom finally retire the iconic agent, or will he continue his decades-long battle against bio-organic weapons? His enduring popularity makes his potential exit a highly sensitive topic within the gaming community.

The question isn't merely about nostalgia. Leon, introduced in Resident Evil 2, has become a central figure, bridging the gap between classic survival horror and the more action-oriented entries. His character arc, marked by loss, resilience, and unwavering dedication, has resonated with players for over two decades. But with Resident Evil 9 potentially ushering in a new era, is there a place for a seasoned veteran like Leon?

Leon's Legacy: A Look Back at the Agent's Journey

Leon's journey hasn't been without its bumps. From the horrors of Raccoon City in Resident Evil 2 to his intense encounters with Saddler in Resident Evil 4 and his involvement in the bioterrorist threats depicted in Resident Evil 6 and Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, he's faced seemingly insurmountable odds. His resilience and skill have cemented his position as one of gaming's most beloved action heroes.

• Resident Evil 2: His rookie mistakes and eventual survival defined his character.
• Resident Evil 4: This game solidified his status as a fan favorite, showcasing his combat prowess and unwavering determination.
• Resident Evil 6: While this entry received mixed reviews, Leon's role remained significant, highlighting his experience and leadership.

This impressive history makes the prospect of his departure all the more jarring. However, Capcom has shown a willingness to evolve its narratives and characters, sometimes writing out beloved figures to make way for new stories.

Why Writing Out Leon Might Be a Strategic Move (and Why It Might Not)

Several factors could influence Capcom's decision. Introducing fresh protagonists allows for narrative innovation and the exploration of new gameplay mechanics. Focusing on younger characters could revitalize the franchise's image and appeal to a broader audience. Furthermore, retiring Leon could provide a sense of closure for his character arc, leaving a lasting legacy.

However, writing Leon out would be a risky move. His immense popularity guarantees a significant portion of the fanbase would be disappointed. Moreover, his established connections to the overarching Resident Evil lore could create narrative inconsistencies if he's simply written out without a satisfying conclusion.

What Resident Evil 9 Could Hold for Leon (and the Future of the Series)

The upcoming Resident Evil 9 could provide clues about Leon's future. Will he take on a mentor role, guiding a new generation of heroes? Or will he face a final, climactic challenge that could mark his definitive exit? The possibilities are numerous, and the anticipation is palpable.

While we await further information, one thing is certain: Leon S. Kennedy's legacy is undeniable. His place in Resident Evil history is secure, regardless of whether he continues to grace our screens in future installments.

What are your thoughts? Will Leon be written out of the series? Share your predictions in the comments below!