That Tactical Axe in the Resident Evil 9 Trailer? It’s Real, and Leon Can Use It

If you did a double-take at the tactical axe Leon S. Kennedy was holding at the end of the Resident Evil 9: Requiem trailer at The Game Awards, you can rest easy—it’s not just for show.

Recently, Resident Evil 9 director Koshi Nakanishi officially confirmed in an interview that the axe seen in the footage is a fully functional weapon in the game. Its purpose is crystal clear: melee combat.

According to the development team, Leon will be able to wield the tactical axe for close-quarters engagements. It wasn't designed as a throwaway Easter egg or a prop, but rather as a specific piece of loadout with a defined role.

Speaking to Japanese outlet 4Gamer, Nakanishi explained that the weapon is modeled after authentic tactical gear used by special forces. The team intends for it to become one of Leon’s signature weapons in this entry, rather than just a "last resort" backup option. This means players will be able to swing it to engage enemies head-on in melee scenarios actively.

This addition has sparked speculation regarding the combat rhythm of Resident Evil 9. Unlike the series' traditional reliance on firearms—where melee is often a desperate countermeasure or a follow-up move—the tactical axe suggests a stronger emphasis on CQC (Close Quarters Combat). Is this a survival mechanic for resource-scarce moments, or a shift toward a more aggressive, visceral fighting style? At the very least, Capcom clearly wants Leon to get up close and personal this time around.

Resident Evil 9: Requiem is scheduled to launch on February 27, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

Come launch day, finding out just how effective that axe really is will likely be the first thing on every player's to-do list.

The above content is compiled by ModeZone, a fashion and entertainment magazine.