8 Resident Evil Requiem Nostalgia Bait Moments That Pleased Fans

Resident Evil Requiem is receiving a lot of praise and is considered by many to be a standout title in the Resident Evil franchise. Players enjoy its blend of tense survival horror sections as Grace and the satisfying action of playing as Leon.

The game’s return to Raccoon City immediately brought back fond memories for fans. This was especially true when Leon was shown returning to the police department, a scene many had long hoped to see.

Resident Evil Requiem is full of moments that will bring back fond memories, and we’ve gathered the very best ones.

8. Plant Monsters

Burn Them Down

If you’ve played the original Resident Evil 2 as Leon, you likely remember Plant 43. This dangerous bioweapon shows up towards the end of the game, and you have to eliminate it by mixing a special chemical solution.

Fighting the monsters in Plant 43 in Resident Evil Requiem reminded us of the original Resident Evil game. We used to easily defeat them with a flamethrower, but now we have to shoot at the plants they’re connected to until they retreat. Despite the different approach, it’s still really satisfying to see them reappear, and especially to finally burn them during the boss battle.

7. Jill’s Baret

She’s Been Through a Lot

Playing the original Resident Evil was a memorable experience, even with its frustrating controls. The game introduced us to some of our most beloved characters, including Jill Valentine.

Jill reappears in several later Resident Evil games, including Resident Evil 3, Resident Evil 5, and Revelations. Though she isn’t a playable character in Resident Evil Requiem, a nod to her presence can be found: her signature beret is hidden within the police department, specifically on her desk in the STARS office. Spotting it again was a nostalgic reminder of both playing as her in earlier games and facing her as an opponent in Resident Evil 5.

6. Barry’s Games

Jill Sandwich

Barry Burton is a beloved, long-time character in the Resident Evil series. He’s appeared in or been referenced in many of the games, but he’s best remembered for his roles in the original Resident Evil and Resident Evil Revelations 2.

As a long-time Resident Evil fan, I was a little bummed Barry wasn’t in Requiem, but it was cool they still acknowledged him! When I explored the STARS office at the police station, I found a note that totally felt like something he’d write – it reminded me of all the little notes he used to leave in previous games. Honestly, the whole scavenger hunt was a fun trip down memory lane, with references to old characters and even a picture of Rebecca! It was a nice nod to the series’ history.

5. Leon Fighting Zeno

The Return of Wesker

Later in Resident Evil Requiem, Zeno demonstrates his abilities, and they strongly resemble those of another character. He moves with incredible speed, dodging bullets and easily overpowering Leon. Essentially, Zeno is superhuman, and the only Resident Evil character he seems comparable to is Wesker.

Even before the battle began, Zeno reminded me of Wesker from Resident Evil 5, but the actual fight really brought back memories of the iconic Chris and Wesker battles. While a boss fight against Zeno would have been amazing, we’re happy to focus on defeating Gideon and Mr. X instead.

4. The Lickers Return

Bring Us Back to Resident Evil 2

Seeing the Lickers in Ark: Survival Evolved’s Requiem brought back a lot of memories of the original Resident Evil 2, where they first appeared. We hadn’t seen them since, and it was genuinely terrifying to be reminded of sneaking around them in the police station all over again.

Playing as Grace recreates that initial, terrifying encounter from the original Resident Evil 2, but playing as Leon elevates the experience. He’s prepared for the Lickers, and instead of just remembering the fear, you get the satisfying feeling of expertly taking them down with everything you’ve got.

3. Fighting Mr. X

Pure Nostalgia

Mr. X is a memorable enemy from Resident Evil 2, and a significant figure in the entire Resident Evil series. Many players specifically remember the challenge he presented while navigating the police station. Though the Mr. X in Requiem isn’t the original, his return evoked strong memories of the classic game.

Breaking out of the police station while being chased by that villain unexpectedly made us feel sentimental. The fight itself was exhilarating, and Leon’s signature lines really added to the excitement. It’s a moment we won’t soon forget.

2. Gun Shop Kendo

The Saddest Moment

Man, the Gun Shop in Kendo’s is where Resident Evil really gets to me. It’s just… heartbreaking. They bring it up again and again, referencing both RE2 and RE3, and it always hits me right in the feels. Seriously, it reminds me of a time when games weren’t afraid to mess with your emotions – a genuinely unforgettable moment.

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Even Leon pauses to reflect on the past. Arriving at the shop triggers a flashback where he remembers the night everything changed, and the shop owner’s daughter becoming infected. Now, only skeletal remains are left of those who perished. It’s a somber moment, but it’s also a good reminder of when video games could truly leave a lasting impression.

1. Opening the Gate

Welcome Home, Leon

Okay, so thinking back to the start of Resident Evil 2, it’s pretty intense. After barely escaping that truck stop mess, I finally got Leon into Raccoon City, but things were already going downhill fast. The city was a total disaster, and the first thing I did when we reached the police station was slam that gate shut to keep the zombies out – seriously, it was a close call!

Years after leaving, Leon returns to Raccoon City. The gate to the police station remains locked, but this time, he easily breaks it open – a stark contrast to his struggle in the original Resident Evil 2. He’s no longer a new officer, and he’s ready to confront his memories. For Leon, this moment in Requiem felt particularly powerful.

2026-03-16 18:40