Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement marks a thrilling return to the series, introducing two fresh protagonists in their battle against a demon lord situated in a 16th-century English castle. The game employs a buddy system for simultaneous control of the heroes, enhancing the gameplay experience, and features updated graphics with a cel-shaded aesthetic.
Players can explore the largest map in the series, customize characters with various relics and skills, and discover unique combat moves. During the PlayStation State of Play event on June 4, developer ArtPlay unveiled this much-anticipated action RPG, a sequel to the highly acclaimed Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night.
Rather than continuing the previous story, The Scarlet Engagement takes players into an entirely different timeline and setting, introducing two new protagonists, Leonard and Alexander, on a mission to stop the menacing Demon Lord Elias. Bloodstained is often seen as a spiritual successor to the Castlevania series, immersing players in gothic worlds filled with supernatural beings, magical abilities, and stunning architecture.
With three prior entries, including Ritual of the Night and its retro-inspired sequel, fans have eagerly awaited a new installment reminiscent of the original gameplay since its launch. The game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC in 2026, taking players back two centuries from Ritual of the Night, as they confront the terror of the Ethereal Castle.
Artistic changes in The Scarlet Engagement include a pronounced cel-shaded look for characters and enemies, alongside fully rendered 3D cutscenes featuring voiceovers. A significant gameplay feature is the new buddy system, allowing players to control both Leo and Alex, with one character following and assisting the other.
This mechanic, a core element of the game, will challenge players as they navigate the expansive Ethereal Castle, collecting relics, weapons, armor, and crafting materials, all while mastering combat moves essential for defeating the Demon Lord.