Summary

The upcoming metroidvania gameChronicles of the Wolf, set to release later this year, is seemingly taking some heavy cues from theCastlevaniafranchise with a 16-bit aesthetic emphasizing similar gothic elements to the series that inspired it. Its connections toCastlevaniago further than simply pure inspiration, however, as it is even reportedly set to feature a returning voice actor from an all-time classic entry to the hit Konami franchise.

Metroidvanias are some of the most popular games out there, especially in the indie game world, with new contenders popping up all the time to take on the familiar action-platforming formulas fans have come to expect, often with unique twists. Some take a more traditional approach, like the spiritual successorBloodstained: Ritual of the Night,while others add whole new elements into the mix,such as the roguelikeDead Cells.

Chronicles of the Wolfappears to be no different, recently debuting a brand-new trailer for the upcoming game depicting its gothic-style metroidvania action with gameplay largely reminiscent ofthe classicCastlevaniagames. The game was unveiled this week with a short trailer from developer Migami Games and publishers Pqube and PixelHeart confirming a launch window of 2025 and showing off the game’s 2D action gameplay as the player utilizes an array of weapons and abilities to defeat supernatural creatures.

Chronicles of the Wolf Promises Fast-Paced Metroidvania Action

The game not only features 2D action platforming and RPG elements like merchants and upgradable gear, but much likeSimon’s Quest,it even has a day/night cycle, with certain gameplay events dictated by the time of day. For die-hardCastlevaniafans,Chronicles of the Wolfis also set to feature narration from Robert Belgrade, who starred inthe fan-favoriteCastlevania: Symphony of the Nighton the original PlayStation, giving the two a direct connection.

Even fans of more modern metroidvania games have something in store for them outside the gameplay itself, as the developer revealed thatChronicles of the Wolfwill also feature a crossover withthe indie hitBloodstained: Ritual of the Night.According to the game’s trailer, Bloodless, one of the many bosses inBloodstained,is going to make a special appearance in it, likely as a boss fight, though the trailer does not indicate one way or another.

In any case,Chronicles of the Wolfseems to have plenty to offer for metroidvania fans new and old alike, with plenty of mysteries to uncover across its levels and a seemingly wide array of bosses. With no official launch date aside from a broad window of 2025, it is unclear how long fans will have to wait to experience the game, but it is set to hit the PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam.