Resident Evil 4 is the sixth installment in the Resident Evil series and is often noted for its departure from the fixed camera angles of earlier titles. It introduced an over-the-shoulder third-person perspective, faster-paced gunplay, and more dynamic controls. The game features larger, more open environments and a new AI system that enables enemies to coordinate attacks and attempt to corner the player. Enemies exhibit more human-like behavior, such as climbing ladders, opening doors, and using weapons.

The game's main protagonist is Leon S. Kennedy, one of the few survivors of the Raccoon City incident, who was recruited and trained by the US Government to become a special agent after they learned of his actions in Raccoon City. Now an agent for a special security agency, Leon is sent to Spain on a mission to rescue Ashley Graham, the President's daughter, who has been kidnapped by a mysterious cult organization.