Author note: Written by Jachin, a 23-year Resident Evil series fan based in Seoul, South Korea. This guide is based on 6 full RE9 playthroughs on PS5 and Steam (Casual → Insanity → NG+ Insanity completions). All strategies, timings, and locations have been personally tested across the v1.02 patch. AI tools were used only for grammar review and note organization; no AI-generated content appears in strategy analysis.
Verified on: v1.02 + DLC patch · Last reviewed: May 30, 2026 · About the author · Editorial policies
Raccoon City is Area 3 of RE9 — the RE2 callback area. Leon takes the lead here. The RPD Main Hall is a pixel-for-pixel recreation of RE2 Remake aged 28 years. Mr. X transforms to Super Tyrant. Titan Spinner waits in the urban square. This area’s emotional weight matches RE2’s original impact.
Raccoon City is one of 4 main areas in RE9. The game has no Chapter Select after completion — area progression is strictly linear. You cannot return to this area on a regular save once exited.
Each sub-section in Raccoon City has a dedicated walkthrough below.
This area features two major bosses across its 2.5 hours.
Stock the W870 Police shotgun upgraded to T2-T3 for Mr. X transformation. The Clatter Carbine is required for Titan Spinner Phase 2.
Insanity Raccoon City: Mr. X one-shots without Iron Skin charm. RPD pillars are mandatory cover. Don’t leave RPD with less than 4 Requiem Revolver rounds for Titan Spinner.
Q: Can I return to Raccoon City after leaving?
A: Not on Standard play. You can revisit on NG+ with free area selection. Plan collectible runs accordingly.
Q: What is the minimum playthrough time for Raccoon City?
A: ~2.5 hours on first playthrough. NG+ speedrun cuts to 60% of that time with Infinite Magnum (Requiem Revolver infinite ammo).
Q: Which charm should I equip for this area?
A: Crafter’s Touch + Iron Skin + Phoenix Down + Bloodhound (4-slot NG+).
Q: Are there missable collectibles in Raccoon City?
A: Silver Pendant (Orphanage attic), Knife Edge (alley shop), Quartz Fragment 5 (clock tower top) all require deliberate exploration.
Q: What is the Raccoon City hardest moment?
A: Mr. X transformation cutscene catches first-time players off-guard. Pre-stock health before triggering it.
Q: Does the Raccoon City area have RE callbacks?
A: MASSIVE — RPD Main Hall is a pixel-for-pixel RE2 Remake recreation aged 28 years. Officer Leon Kennedy 1998 documents. S.T.A.R.S. office reference. Goddess statue.
Q: How much currency is available in Raccoon City?
A: Approximately 20,000 total (mainly enemy drops). No Antique Coins in this area.
Q: Is Raccoon City different on Insanity NG+?
A: Same layout, but enemies scaled +40% HP, player takes 2x damage, pickup spawn -30%. Infinite Magnum unlock makes Requiem Revolver mid-fight crafting unnecessary.
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