You asked for more gothic horror, and ArtPlay heard you. Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is real and it’s taking the beloved Metroidvania franchise into full prequel mode. Announced during Sony’s June 2025 State of Play, the new title is set before the demon-ridden chaos of Ritual of the Night, diving into the origins of the hellish conflict that cursed a generation.
And if the cinematic reveal is anything to go by, The Scarlet Engagement isn’t just a name it’s a promise of bloodshed, betrayal, and beautifully cursed architecture.
Meet the Black Wolves
Instead of Miriam, this time we’re following Leo, a blade-wielding badass and member of the elite Black Wolves, a knightly order tasked with storming the Ethereal Castle and ending the reign of Demon Lord Elias.
Yes, it’s still a castle. Yes, it’s still filled with demons. And yes, we’re very into it.
The trailer teased a new cast of playable characters and a more ensemble-driven narrative than Ritual of the Night, with flashes of cinematic combat, magic-based abilities, and eerie monster designs that scream “Castlevania, but cursed in a cooler way.”
Gameplay: If It Ain’t Broke, Bleed More On It
From what we’ve seen so far, The Scarlet Engagement sticks close to the classic Metroidvania formula exploration-heavy maps, tight platforming, and layered combat. But things seem faster, snappier, and more refined. One brief gameplay segment even showed Leo using a magical grappling chain to yank enemies mid-combo. Flashy.
The UI and inventory system look overhauled, and while we haven’t seen confirmation of RPG systems or shard mechanics, there’s reason to believe that deep character customization is back. And potentially deeper.
Visuals and Vibes
The Scarlet Engagement leans into darker tones and a more militant aesthetic than its predecessor. Gone are the stained-glass blues and purples of Miriam’s journey in their place are blood-red skies, towering gothic citadels, and brooding, armor clad heroes who look like they’ve seen things.
It’s still stylized 2.5D, still moody as hell, but clearly pushing for a richer visual style. Think Symphony of the Night by way of Devil May Cry.
Release Info
- Release Window: 2026
- Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Developer: ArtPlay
- Publisher: 505 Games
We didn’t get a firm release date yet, but considering how long it’s been since the first game launched, 2026 feels about right. Here’s hoping it lands earlier rather than later.
Final Thoughts: Blood Never Dies
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night was a love letter to Castlevania fans a spiritual successor from Koji Igarashi that more than delivered. If The Scarlet Engagement can build on that foundation with more refined gameplay, a deeper story, and tighter pacing, it could be exactly what the series needs to ascend from cult classic to full-blown genre staple.
We’re keeping both eyes on this one. And maybe a third.
Stay tuned to 1-UP Games for more updates as Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement creeps closer to release.
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