Fans of gothic action and demon hunting have something new to look forward to. Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is the next game in the Bloodstained franchise from ArtPlay and 505 Games, and it’s shaping up to be the series’ most ambitious entry yet. Announced during today’s State of Play, The Scarlet Engagement serves as a prequel to Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and is set to launch in 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
A New Tale From the Bloodstained Universe
Set in 16th-century England, The Scarlet Engagement introduces two new protagonists: Leonard Brandon, a member of the Church’s elite Black Wolves, and Alexander Kyteler, a knight of the White Stags. Together, they must stop the rise of Demon Lord Elias, whose floating castle has cast a literal and figurative shadow over the land.
This new chapter promises to be both welcoming to newcomers and deeply rewarding for long-time fans of Ritual of the Night. While the core action-exploration gameplay returns, there are a number of fresh twists to the formula.
Dual Protagonists and the Largest Map Yet
One of the standout features is the Buddy System, allowing players to switch between Leonard and Alexander in real time. Each has their own playstyle, and players will need to utilize both to solve puzzles, traverse deadly terrain, and defeat enemies together. Expect clever tag-team mechanics and tactical depth as the game builds on what came before.
Exploration will also expand in a big way. ArtPlay says The Scarlet Engagement features the largest map in Bloodstained history, complete with a dynamic time-of-day cycle that changes both the visual atmosphere and gameplay possibilities—from new enemy behaviors to shifting world interactions.
Combat That Evolves With You
The game also introduces the Epiphany Combat System, where your move set evolves as you battle. Instead of simply unlocking abilities, you’ll learn and refine skills dynamically, allowing for personalized builds and flashy, experimental combat. Add to that new gear, customization options, crafting, and cooking systems, and you’ve got an RPG-flavored action experience with plenty of replay value.
A Word From the Creators
Bloodstained creator Koji Igarashi shared his enthusiasm for this next chapter:
“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.”
505 Games president Neil Ralley added:
“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.”
Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is scheduled to release in 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For updates, visit playbloodstained.com or follow @PlayBloodstained on social media (or @swordOrWhip on X).
