Polish studio Rebel Wolves has recently unveiled extensive gameplay footage from their upcoming vampire-themed open-world RPG, The Blood of Dawnwalker. Spanning over 20 minutes, this preview provides a deeper look into the game’s mechanics and story, marking the most significant glimpse yet.
The Blood of Dawnwalker was initially revealed in January 2025, following an announcement about its development. With a promise of monster hunting and morally ambiguous choices, the game has drawn comparisons to The Witcher, owing in part to its creators, many of whom are veterans of CD Projekt Red.
The anticipated release is slated for 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC platforms. The recent gameplay reveal, showcased during a June 21 event, primarily focuses on a mid-game quest featuring the protagonist, Coen, who investigates a hidden weapon in the crypts of an ancient cathedral.
Players first see Coen exploring the countryside, where he encounters bandits, demonstrating the game’s combat system. Rebel Wolves designed the swordplay to make players feel like true swordmasters, with attacks and defenses based on careful observation of enemy behaviors.
Coen is equipped with special abilities, including the damage-over-time skill Burning Blood and the decapitating attack Artery Attack. Players can pause the game to select abilities mid-combat, enhancing strategy similar to Dragon Age.
Rebel Wolves has emphasized The Blood of Dawnwalker’s unique approach to time management. Rather than treating time as a race against the clock, players have a finite amount of time to pursue various activities related to the overarching goal of saving Coen’s family.
This structure, intended to ensure each playthrough is distinct, allows idle exploration without the pressure of depleting time. As Coen transitions into a vampire at night, he faces both advantages and challenges.
While his abilities expand, he also becomes more vulnerable and must manage his health as a hunger meter. Players can choose whether to kill or merely incapacitate NPCs while feeding, with consequences depending on their approach.
Depending on whether players tackle quests as a human or as a vampire, and their prior alliances, various options will be available for completing objectives, adding layers to the gameplay experience.