Bandai Namco and developer Rebel Wolves have just released a thrilling 21-minute gameplay showcase for The Blood of Dawnwalker, giving players a first in-depth look at its combat, exploration, and narrative systems. Set in a grim reimagining of 14th-century Europe, the game blends open-world adventure with a deep RPG narrative where every decision could lead to salvation—or damnation.

A Tale of Blood, Choice, and Consequence

You play as Coen, a once-human, now-Dawnwalker—straddling the line between humanity and vampirism. In this dark fantasy world, your choices aren’t just moral—they’re urgent. Every quest pushes the clock forward, and with your family’s fate on the line, every action—or inaction—has weight.

In the new gameplay footage, players are introduced to the two core gameplay loops: day and night. Daylight offers stealthier, more human approaches, while nighttime unleashes Coen’s brutal vampire form, full of supernatural fury. The transitions are seamless—and strategic. Choosing when to act is just as important as how.

Gameplay Mechanics That Shift With the Sun

Whether you’re wielding a blade, casting magic, or unleashing rage with vampiric claws, The Blood of Dawnwalker gives you the freedom to experiment. The 21-minute video shows off fast-paced, aerial combat and combo chaining that adapts depending on the time of day.

Exploration plays a key role. The open world is handcrafted, filled with hidden ruins, haunted forests, medieval villages, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed. The level of visual detail, powered by Unreal Engine 5, is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

RPG Customization and Narrative Depth

The Blood of Dawnwalker isn’t just about action—it’s about shaping a story. Want to rush headfirst into danger? Do it. Prefer to build alliances and uncover secrets first? That’s valid, too. The game promises multiple narrative branches, driven by your dialogue choices, time management, and exploration priorities.

You’ll also meet a range of NPCs—some friends, some foes, and some stuck in between. Choose wisely who to help. The world doesn’t pause for you, and not everyone can be saved.

Platforms and Release Window

The Blood of Dawnwalker is currently in development for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam and Microsoft Store). The game is slated for a 2026 release.

Official website: https://www.bandainamcoent.com/games/dawnwalker