One reason I'm somewhat optimistic is because Capcom outright said that they were aware about the risks with 2 protagonists and how focus, pacing and the tone can be the issue, yet they feel confident that they found the balance. We'll see the end result soon, but it's good that they're aware.

But I agree that I also would've preferred something a bit more grounded with Grace only. And it's not like they can't do it, RE7 is a clear evidence that they absolutely can.

It maybe too early for such predictions but what if we will see empowering vs disempowering dynamic here? Meaning, while Grace will get more tools and guns to feel confident against her enemies, Leon could lose some of his abilities due to the (assumed) infection. Meaning RE6 style here is a trick.

And only after that they decided "hey why not duo protagonists with different gameplay styles this time".

Actually it was the other way around. Originally he was just the single protagonist, then they decided they want a horror title, which they felt didn't really fit Leon and that's why they added Grace to the game.

I'd say it was kinda necessary because it's the game with dual protagonists. And when one of them is someone completely new against The Legendary Video Game Protagonist, it is kinda inevitable that everyone's attention will be focused on him. So I think they wanted to give more time to Grace first.

Does it tho'? To me it looks more like an updated gameplay of RE4R. Don't see any stamina or the ability to perform melee without stunning enemy first. I understand what you meant, but the difference is kinda crucial in this imo

hey we might get a proper Rev3 tho

He's hardly can be called a groomer if he himself was specifically raised to be perfect husband for one girl and nothing else. If he was a malicious person, he would ignore her wishes completely, but he actually wanted these feelings to be mutual. Patriarchy here is present as issue for both genders