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
Rhodes Hill is Area 2 of RE9 — the longest area at 3.5 hours. Four sub-sections house the franchise’s most lore-significant discoveries: Vivien Ashcroft’s research papers at Care Center, the Organless Corpse puzzle in the Basement, and The Girl boss at Water Treatment. This is where the Eveline mystery begins.
Rhodes Hill 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 Rhodes Hill has a dedicated walkthrough below.
This area features the first mini-boss and a major boss fight.
You acquire the Requiem Revolver in Care Center (S-tier weapon). Upgrade to T2 (8,000 currency) before Water Treatment for The Girl boss fight.
Insanity Rhodes Hill: The Girl fight is the hardest pre-Chapter 8 fight. Stock 3+ First Aids before entering Water Treatment. Bloodhound charm mandatory for The Girl stealth approach.
Q: Can I return to Rhodes Hill 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 Rhodes Hill?
A: ~3.5 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 (Insanity) OR + Marksman’s Eye (Standard).
Q: Are there missable collectibles in Rhodes Hill?
A: Family Photograph in Care Center records is trophy-required and easy to miss. Check filing cabinets thoroughly.
Q: What is the Rhodes Hill hardest moment?
A: The Girl boss at Water Treatment. Insanity-tier difficulty even on Standard. Stealth approach is mandatory.
Q: Does the Rhodes Hill area have RE callbacks?
A: Yes — Vivien’s research papers reference Eveline (RE7). The Chef boss in Courtyard is an RE2 kitchen sequence homage.
Q: How much currency is available in Rhodes Hill?
A: Approximately 35,000 total (3 Antique Coins = 30,000 + 5,000 drops).
Q: Is Rhodes Hill 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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