Capcom’s long-running survival horror saga returns in terrifying fashion with Resident Evil Requiem. This latest mainline entry blends psychological dread with intense action, placing players in the shoes of fan-favorite Leon Kennedy and newcomer Grace Ashcroft. With dynamic perspective shifts, deeper crafting systems, and relentless enemy variants, Requiem demands more than quick reflexes — it requires smart resource management and tactical thinking.

If you're planning to jump into Resident Evil Requiem on console, securing your digital copy ahead of time can save you launch-day hassle. Some players prefer using an Xbox Gift Card to add funds to their account before purchasing, especially if they like managing prepaid balances. It’s a simple option for players who prefer prepaid balances over direct card payments. If you’re ready to dive in, these 15 essential tips will help you survive.

1. Understand the Dual-Protagonist Structure

Requiem frequently switches between Leon and Grace, and each character plays very differently.

Grace’s chapters lean heavily into survival horror. She uses a first-person camera by default, and her segments emphasize tension, limited resources, and vulnerability.

Leon’s sections feel more action-oriented. With a third-person default perspective and stronger combat capabilities, his gameplay encourages aggressive encounters.

You can adjust camera settings in the menu, so experiment if you want a different feel. Switching Grace to third-person may ease tension, while playing Leon in first-person can heighten immersion.

2. Avoid Unnecessary Fights

Ammo conservation is critical. Not every infected needs to be eliminated. Sometimes the smarter choice is to avoid confrontation entirely and search for alternate routes.

If combat is unavoidable, prioritize the most dangerous enemies first — especially those with weapons.

3. Master Stealth Kills

Many infected won’t detect you immediately. Use this to your advantage.

• Grace can use her Hemolytic Injector for explosive stealth kills.

• Leon can decapitate enemies with his Hatchet.

Taking enemies down quietly saves ammunition and prevents dangerous group encounters.

4. Learn Melee Combat Mechanics

Leon’s Hatchet is more than a backup tool. He can parry attacks and sharpen the blade when his durability drops.

Grace’s Makeshift Knife allows her to stagger enemies, opening them up for a push attack. Melee weapons also help you escape grabs more quickly.

Proper melee timing can mean the difference between survival and a wasted healing item.

5. Use Enemy Weapons Against Them

Some infected wield clubs, firearms, polearms, or even chainsaws. Once staggered or defeated, they drop these weapons.

Temporary weapon pickups can turn overwhelming fights into manageable encounters. Just be careful — chainsaws remain dangerous even after the wielder falls.

6. Use Firearms Strategically

Leon gains access to pistols, shotguns, and sniper rifles:

• Handguns: Best for weaker enemies.

• Shotguns: Save for elites and bosses.

• Sniper rifles: Excellent for distant headshots.

Both Leon and Grace eventually use the powerful Requiem handgun. It deals massive damage but uses scarce high-caliber ammo, so reserve it for critical threats.

7. Always Destroy Zombie Heads

If you fail to destroy a zombie’s head, it can later mutate into a Blister Head — a faster, deadlier variant requiring significant firepower.

Decapitation isn’t just stylish — it’s strategic.

8. Run from the Girl

In Grace’s chapters, you’ll encounter the Girl — a relentless creature you cannot defeat.

Your only option is escape. Stay in well-lit areas, as light weakens her. Also watch ceilings — she can drop from above.

These sequences emphasize panic management over combat skill.

9. Combine Healing Items Wisely

Green Herbs remain essential. Combining them increases potency, so avoid using single herbs unless absolutely necessary.

The Med Injector fully restores health and functions like a First Aid Spray. Save it for emergencies.

10. Understand Crafting Differences

Crafting works differently for each character:

Leon: Combine Scrap and Gunpowder for ammo.

Grace: Unlock recipes via microscopes and gather Infected Blood from environments or enemies. Crafting with Grace requires more preparation but offers unique utility.

Planning ahead ensures you never enter a major encounter underprepared.

11. Manage Inventory Carefully

Grace has limited space and must rely on storage crates. Finding Hip Pouches expands capacity.

Leon gains supply boxes later, allowing him to exchange credits for upgrades, ammo, armor, and even inventory expansions. Selling unused weapons saves space — and you can repurchase them later if needed.

Smart inventory management keeps you flexible in unpredictable situations.

12. Search for Destructible Objects

Yellow tape and paint mark interactive objects.

• Break crates for supplies.

• Shoot hanging briefcases.

• Cut ladder chains to access new paths.

Environmental awareness often rewards exploration.

13. Collect Mr. Raccoon Statuettes and Charms

Hidden collectibles add depth to exploration:

• Mr. Raccoon statuettes emit subtle wind-up sounds.

• Charms grant passive buffs.

• Locked safes and drawers contain rare weapons and upgrades.

Exploring thoroughly pays off significantly in later chapters.

14. Read Every File

There are 75 files scattered throughout the game. While many expand lore, some contain puzzle clues and safe combinations.

If you get stuck, check your discovered files before searching elsewhere.

15. Plan for Multiple Playthroughs

Like previous entries in the series, Requiem encourages replayability.

Completing challenges — speedruns, no-heal runs, full collectible runs — earns Challenge Points. These unlock cosmetics, new weapons, infinite ammo options, and bonus content.

One playthrough barely scratches the surface.

For those interested in extra cosmetics and weapon skins, the Deluxe Edition provides additional outfits and charm accessories for both protagonists. Many players choose to Buy Xbox Gift Card to secure special editions during promotional periods.

Final Thoughts

Resident Evil Requiem successfully balances old-school survival tension with modern action mechanics. By learning the differences between Leon and Grace, managing resources carefully, and mastering combat systems, you’ll dramatically increase your chances of surviving its most brutal encounters.