Leon S. Kennedy and Chris Redfield are back for Resident Evil 6.

We know it's kind of expected news after today's sequence of leaks, but it's exciting news nonetheless.

The game will take place in North America and China, and, as per earlier rumours, will see former protagonists Leon S. Kennedy and Chris Redfield return as playable characters.

The plot's set some ten years after the events of Resident Evil 2, with the US president deciding to go public about the Raccoon City incident. But an unfortunate (and convenient) bioterrorism attack leaves the president infected, and Leon facing a difficult decision.

Meanwhile, in China, Chris Redfield is confronted with a similar threat. Both characters will be joined by new partners, with the co-op gameplay from Resident Evil 5 also set to make a return.

The game will be directed by Eichiro Sasaki, with Yoshaki Hirabayashi handling producer duties. Hiroyuki Kobayashi will act as the game's executive producer.

“Resident Evil 6 represents a giant stride forward in the evolution of the series,” said Capcom’s Katsuhiko Ichi. “The development team, led by Hiroyuki Kobayashi, is working tirelessly to deliver the most impressive Resident Evil title ever both in terms of scope and production values. We are all genuinely excited by the title and cannot wait to share it with the world.”

He continued: “From the outset the team’s intention was to create an experience that delivers a gripping storyline, tense single-player and co-op action all set against a constant theme of horror. We are calling this fusion dramatic horror and are confident it will resonate with both existing fans of the series as well as newcomers.”

As previously reported, the game will release on November 20th in North America. A Japanese release will follow on November 22nd.

There's a show-stopping trailer after the jump, packed with cut-scenes, gameplay and more. We're sure fans will be analysing this one for months. One thing we couldn't help but notice was the appearance of Ashley Graham — the president's daughter from Resident Evil 4. "Leon!"

Just from watching the trailer, it strikes us that the gameplay's going to differ depending on the character. For example, the footage featuring Chris Redfield seems to channel the action heavy gameplay from Resident Evil 5, while Leon S. Kennedy's segments invoke the tense shootouts from Resident Evil 4. We suppose such a clear distinction between mood should provide an ample method of pleasing everyone, but we're worried that the game might lose its focus as a result. Ultimately, it's hard to make a judgement from a three-minute trailer.

One thing we can be sure of, though, is jaw-dropping presentation. There's a scene in which Chris Redfield runs through a busy, Chinese street, and the lighting looks incredible. See for yourself in the trailer after the break.

Who's excited, then?