New RPG Is Like The Witcher Meets Persona

Rebel Wolves, a studio comprised of former CD Projekt Red developers, unveiled a cinematic trailer for their debut title, The Blood of Dawnwalker. This open-world RPG, reminiscent of The Witcher, features a dark fantasy setting, morally grey choices, and a compelling outcast protagonist. Intriguingly, it also incorporates Persona-like time management mechanics.

The trailer, primarily pre-rendered cinematic footage with brief gameplay glimpses, highlights the game's Witcher-esque atmosphere. Announced initially as Dawnwalker in January 2024, the game was officially revealed as The Blood of Dawnwalker on January 13, 2025, with a four-and-a-half-minute trailer showcasing the setting and introducing Coen, the protagonist transformed into a powerful, vampire-like Dawnwalker.

A Witcher-esque Experience with a Twist

The Blood of Dawnwalker immediately evokes the Witcher series with its dark fantasy setting, monstrous creatures, and morally ambiguous choices. The tagline, "the world needs what it fears," further emphasizes this similarity. Players will face difficult decisions, mirroring the choices in The Witcher 3's Blood and Wine expansion, choosing whether Coen embraces his new powers or clings to his humanity. A robust morality system underpins these choices.

Time Management Meets Narrative Sandbox

While drawing inspiration from The Witcher, The Blood of Dawnwalker innovates with Persona-style time management. Every quest consumes time, creating a "narrative sandbox" where players must prioritize their actions. Co-founder and game director Konrad Tomaszkiewicz explains that multiple approaches exist to saving Coen's family, blurring the lines between main and side quests. Complete game completion in a single playthrough is impossible, encouraging replayability and unique experiences.

Currently in development for PC and current-gen consoles (PlayStation and Xbox), The Blood of Dawnwalker is planned as the first installment of a trilogy, published by Bandai Namco. While a release date remains unannounced, considering its 2022 development start and AAA budget, a 2027 release or later is anticipated. A gameplay reveal is promised for Summer 2025.