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
Wrenwood is Area 1 of RE9 — the opening hotel where you control Grace and meet Chunk for the first time. This is a 45-minute introduction designed to teach core mechanics: stealth, item pickup, basic combat with the Silencer 9 pistol, and the parry system using Mortal Edge.
Wrenwood 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 Wrenwood has a dedicated walkthrough below.
No major bosses. First Chunk encounter is stealth-only (unkillable).
You have only the starter Silencer 9 pistol + Mortal Edge here. Use them carefully — Chunk cannot be killed in this area.
On Insanity, even Wrenwood Hotel becomes challenging. Equip Iron Skin + Phoenix Down before entering. Stealth Chunk completely — do not waste resources.
Q: Can I return to Wrenwood 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 Wrenwood?
A: ~45 min 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 + Survivor’s Will (early game stability).
Q: Are there missable collectibles in Wrenwood?
A: Eye Spy charm in room 217 is the only missable. Easy to skip if you don’t explore.
Q: What is the Wrenwood hardest moment?
A: First Chunk encounter — but it’s scripted unkillable. Just escape.
Q: Does the Wrenwood area have RE callbacks?
A: Subtle — the Rusty Spoon item references RE7’s Mia opening. Not visually obvious.
Q: How much currency is available in Wrenwood?
A: Approximately 5,000 from enemy drops + 500 from items.
Q: Is Wrenwood 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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