The Blood of Dawnwalker, a single-player open-world dark fantasy action RPG from Rebel Wolves (ex-CD Projekt Red developers) and published by Bandai Namco, is set to launch in 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Microsoft Store. A 21-minute gameplay overview, released on June 2025, showcases its Witcher 3-esque vibe, with a detailed world, visceral combat, and narrative depth.
Set in a fictional 14th-century Europe amidst war and the Black Death, the game takes place in Vale Sangora, a Carpathian Mountain region where vampires have seized power. You play as Coen, a Dawnwalker—a human-vampire hybrid—struggling with silver poisoning and a 30-day deadline to save his family or seek revenge on his sire. The narrative sandbox design blurs the line between main and side quests, with every choice impacting the story and world, making each playthrough unique.
Coen’s abilities shift based on time of day. By day, he relies on swordplay and human resolve; at night, vampiric powers like wall-running, mist transformation, and claw-based combat dominate. Feeding on enemies (humans, vampires, or animals) or using blood vials manages his hunger, which, if ignored, weakens him or risks losing control, potentially killing key characters.
A For Honor-like directional system (four directions) emphasizes tactical swordplay, with special abilities like Burning Blood (damage over time) or Artery Attack (decapitation). Combat pauses for ability selection, similar to Dragon Age. The team studied medieval fighting styles, with trained swordsmen on staff for authenticity.
The world, built in Unreal Engine 5, features bustling cities like Svartrau (reminiscent of The Witcher 3’s Novigrad) and snowy peaks. Vampiric traversal includes scaling walls and blinking across rooftops. The smaller, detailed world prioritizes quality over size for a lived-in feel.
The non-linear story allows players to align with factions like the human rebellion or avoid them entirely. Time progresses with each quest, forcing tough choices about who to help. Romanceable characters are confirmed, adding depth to relationships.
The gameplay footage, captured from a pre-beta build, shows a polished yet slightly rough experience, with some noting floaty combat and flat visuals needing refinement. Still, its ambitious scope, rich lore, and Witcher 3-inspired quality have sparked excitement, with comparisons to a “vampire Witcher.” A 30–40-hour main story aims for depth over bloated length.