Top 10 Coolest Things About Leon S. Kennedy

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Leon S. Kennedy starts as a new police officer in the ‘Resident Evil’ series, but quickly develops into a highly skilled hero. The games demonstrate his growth through gameplay, missions, and equipment. We see him evolve from simply trying to survive a city’s destruction to undertaking dangerous rescue operations and combating global bio-terrorism. The games also highlight his improving skills with features like finishing moves after accurate shots and expert knife techniques. Here’s a look at what makes Leon so memorable in the games where you can play as him.

First day in Raccoon City

In his first appearance in ‘Resident Evil 2’, Leon is immediately thrust into the middle of a deadly outbreak when he reports for duty. The game teaches you essential survival skills – like managing limited ammunition, keeping track of important items, and using safe rooms effectively – as you navigate Leon through the police station and underground sewers. The story changes depending on whether you choose to play as Leon or Claire, altering which bosses you face and the puzzles you solve. The remake keeps this core structure but improves the controls, aiming, and the relentless pursuit by the enemy Mr. X, creating a consistently tense experience.

Evolving into a government agent

Leon S. Kennedy’s role evolves between ‘Resident Evil 2’ and ‘Resident Evil 4’, shifting from a new police officer to a U.S. government agent specializing in bioterrorism. ‘Resident Evil 4’ establishes this change by having him protect the president’s daughter and communicate with support teams. Later games, such as ‘Resident Evil 6’, show him working with other agents on large-scale operations. These missions are reflected in the game design with bigger environments, more enemies, and a wider range of equipment.

Precision shots into melee finishers

‘Resident Evil 4’ made it famous: stunning enemies with precise shots, then quickly moving in for special attacks. Hitting an enemy in the head or knee unlocks options like roundhouse kicks or suplexes, saving ammo and helping control groups. This gameplay loop encourages players to aim carefully and find good positioning, as it’s safest to attack enemies when they’re alone. The remake keeps this core system, improving how easily enemies are stunned and making the animations look even better.

Knife mastery and parries

In the ‘Resident Evil 4’ remake, Leon’s knife is a key weapon with several uses. It has limited durability but can be repaired, so players need to manage its condition. With precise timing, the knife can deflect enemy attacks – even some projectiles – opening up opportunities for quick counterattacks. This makes it a dependable way to defend yourself when you’re outnumbered or running low on ammo.

Iconic arsenal and upgrades

In ‘Resident Evil 4’, Leon’s weapon choices focus on adaptable pistols, shotguns effective against groups, and accurate rifles – all of which can be improved by visiting the Merchant. Players can choose powerful handguns like the Red9 or prioritize handling with the Blacktail, while the Striker shotgun boosts movement speed when aiming. Unique upgrades significantly change how weapons perform, so smart purchasing and selling are crucial for managing difficulty. The remake also features cosmetic attache case charms and perks that provide minor bonuses, letting players customize their preferred playstyle.

Memorable boss fights and counters

Leon’s battles feature bosses designed to teach you key skills. For example, the El Gigante fight encourages you to pay attention to your surroundings and use resources effectively, while the Garrador requires careful sound control and accurate attacks from behind. Fighting Krauser focuses on fast-paced, close-range combat, utilizing quick movements and knife skills to overcome his defenses. Mastering these techniques will make the later, more challenging waves of enemies and minibosses much easier to handle.

Team ups and intersecting routes

Leon’s adventures often connect him with other characters throughout the Resident Evil series. In Resident Evil 2, he teams up with Claire and Ada, and their paths intertwine to change puzzles and how the story unfolds. He encounters Ada again in Resident Evil 4 and its remake, and her own storyline reveals what happens behind the scenes. Resident Evil 6 features Leon and Helena working together, with their campaign designed to complement the experiences of other player characters.

Mobility options and escapes

Leon has a variety of skills to help him escape dangerous situations, including quickly turning, vaulting through windows, and using his surroundings to create diversions. In ‘Resident Evil 4’, he can jump from heights or kick down ladders to slow down enemies, giving him time to reload or recover. The updated version of the game makes these movements even smoother and gives players better control, making it easier to lead enemies on chases through towns and castles. In his adventures, how well Leon uses the environment is just as important as his weapons.

Merchant economy and case management

As a huge ‘Resident Evil 4’ fan, I always loved the Merchant and that attache case system! It really shaped how you played as Leon. Basically, you find treasures, combine them into sets for more money, and then use that cash to upgrade your weapons. The way you organized your case was actually really important too – especially on harder difficulties, because being able to quickly switch weapons or craft items could save your life! The remake takes this even further by letting you customize your case with attachments and charms that can boost your luck with item drops and even help you heal.

Versatility across spin offs and modes

Leon’s style of play remains recognizable no matter the game. Whether it’s the on-rails sections of ‘Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles’ – where his focus on accurate shooting and fast reactions still shines – or the extra challenges in ‘Resident Evil 4’ and its remake, his skills are consistently emphasized. This means players who are familiar with Leon can easily apply what they’ve learned to new games without having to start from scratch.

Share your favorite Leon moments from the games in the comments so everyone can compare notes.

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2025-10-27 00:15