Leading videogame publisher 505 Games and acclaimed developer ArtPlay today lifted the veil on Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, a highly anticipated early chapter in the beloved Bloodstained franchise. This new installment promises to plunge players into strategic battles, intricate crafting, and expansive exploration across a sprawling, cursed 16th-century England.
The announcement trailer offers a first look at the game, which is set before the events of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night. A mysterious floating castle, under the malevolent control of "Demon Lord Elias," has begun terrorizing the populace with its demonic legions. Players will step into the roles of two new protagonists: Leonard Brandon, a young fighter from the Church's Black Wolves clan, and Alexander Kyteler, a knight of the Kingdom's White Stags. Together, they must rise to defeat Demon Lord Elias’s reign of terror and shatter the chains of a kingdom tormented by evil forces.
Koji Igarashi, Co-founder and President of ArtPlay, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We’re thrilled to reveal Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement. The entire ArtPlay team is honored to bring this new chapter in the Bloodstained universe to life, and we’re proud to once again partner with our friends at 505 Games." Neil Ralley, President of 505 Games, echoed this sentiment, commenting, "We’re proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Igarashi-san and the talented team at ArtPlay. Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement represents an exciting moment for the franchise, and we’re committed to supporting this next chapter as it reaches fans around the world.”
Key features of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement include a deeper dive into the Bloodstained lore with a fresh cast of characters, an innovative New Buddy System allowing simultaneous play as Leo and Alex, and the series' largest map yet. The expansive world will feature a dynamic day-night cycle, transforming gameplay and player interaction. Combat is elevated with the Epiphany Combat System, encouraging players to discover new moves and powerful abilities. Furthermore, extensive crafting, cooking, and customization options will allow players to personalize their experience with visually impactful armor changes and expanded character appearances.
Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is currently in development for PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S, with a release window set for 2026.
