505 Games and ArtPlay have officially announced Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, a new 2.5D side-scrolling action RPG launching in 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Set in the 16th century and acting as a prequel to Ritual of the Night, the game introduces two playable protagonists—Leonard and Alexander—who must work together to navigate the demonic depths of the Ethereal Castle.
The game’s dual-character system allows players to switch between characters in real-time, a mechanic that enhances both combat variety and puzzle-solving. The Ethereal Castle, described as the most expansive and complex map in the series, is filled with traps, hidden secrets, and gothic architecture.
This announcement marks a major step forward for the Bloodstained franchise. The use of dual protagonists adds a layer of strategy, while the sheer scale of the Ethereal Castle sets the stage for deeper exploration and replayability. With fully voiced dialogues in English and Japanese, and character progression tied to equipment and relics, The Scarlet Engagement aims to deliver a rich and immersive narrative experience. With a 2026 release date, it could redefine what players expect from the 2.5D action RPG genre.
