The long-anticipated sequel to Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is finally official. Revealed during Sony’s latest PlayStation State of Play, Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement marks a bold new chapter in the gothic action-platformer franchise. The game is scheduled to release sometime in 2026 and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
The reveal came via a cinematic and gameplay trailer that introduced fans to a brand-new cast and setting, all while keeping the series’ beloved metroidvania roots intact. Watch it now down below:
A Prequel Set in a Cursed World
According to the game’s official description, The Scarlet Engagement takes place years before the events of Ritual of the Night. This prequel follows Leo, a warrior allied with the elite Black Wolves, as they prepare to storm the haunted Ethereal Castle. Their mission? To stop the rise of a malevolent threat known as Demon Lord Elias.
Led by Lord Theodore, the Black Wolves face off against terrifying beasts and supernatural horrors in a brutal battle for humanity’s survival. The tone remains gothic and foreboding, filled with dark fantasy elements and haunting landscapes that fans of the series will immediately recognize.
New Heroes, Same Signature Style
While Ritual of the Night focused on Miriam and her cursed bloodline, The Scarlet Engagement shifts the spotlight to a fresh cast of characters. The new trailer hints at fast-paced action, intricate platforming, and intense boss battles all hallmarks of the original game.
Gameplay snippets suggest that ArtPlay is building on the original formula with improved combat animations, more dynamic enemy encounters, and possibly new traversal mechanics.
No Platform Exclusivity, Launching on All Major Systems
Though the reveal came through PlayStation’s showcase, developers quickly confirmed via social media that Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement will not be a console exclusive. It’s launching simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Nintendo Switch details have not been announced.
A Sequel Years in the Making
While the announcement may feel like a surprise, The Scarlet Engagement has been quietly in development for years. ArtPlay first confirmed a sequel was in the works back in 2020, but opted to complete all Ritual of the Night DLC before fully committing to the new title. That final DLC wrapped in 2024, setting the stage for today’s big reveal.
With a new cast, haunting prequel story, and a 2026 release window, Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is shaping up to be a worthy successor to one of the most beloved indie metroidvanias in recent memory.
What are your thoughts on the trailer? Will you be picking this game up when it releases next year? Did you play Ritual of the Night before? Let us know your answers in the comments!
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