Inside the Combat System of “The Blood of Dawnwalker” by Rebel Wolves

Rebel Wolves Unveils the Dynamic Combat System in “The Blood of Dawnwalker”

The independent studio Rebel Wolves, comprised of former CD Projekt RED developers, has shared exciting details about the combat mechanics in their upcoming vampire-themed action RPG, The Blood of Dawnwalker.

Meet the Protagonist and Its Unique Abilities

Game director Conrad Tomaszewicz explained in an Xbox blog post that players will assume the role of Cohen, a vampire whose fighting skills evolve throughout the day. As the sun rises and sets, Cohen’s abilities transform, adding strategic depth to encounters and exploration.

Daytime Combat: Swordplay Rooted in Reality

During daylight hours, Cohen wields a sword passed down from his father. The development team has collaborated with professional fencing experts to craft realistic and grounded melee combat. The goal was to create intense, engaging fights that feel authentic without becoming overly complex or inaccessible.

Dark Arts and Magical Powers

Beyond swordsmanship, Cohen can harness dark magic. In the universe of The Blood of Dawnwalker, magic is a brutal and dangerous force. To access these powers, Cohen must carve runes onto his skin, channeling magic through pain and blood. Spells are depicted not as flashy explosions but as visceral, fiery phenomena, emphasizing the dark tone of the game.

Nighttime: Vampiric Enhancements and Risks

At night, Cohen’s vampiric nature takes over. His claws grow sharper, wounds heal rapidly, and he becomes extraordinarily fast and strong. However, this power comes with significant danger: the vampire must manage his bloodlust. If the craving is left unchecked, Cohen risks losing control, which could result in killing NPCs accidentally—a mistake that might jeopardize entire story branches.

Gameplay and Release Timeline

While detailed gameplay footage is still under wraps, the developers have promised a first look at their combat system in a gameplay presentation scheduled for June 21. The game is expected to launch in 2026, promising a fresh take on vampire lore and combat mechanics.

Creative Worldbuilding and Vampire Lore

Previously, narrative director Jakub Shamalek shared insights into the creation of the game’s universe. He emphasized how the vampires in The Blood of Dawnwalker differ from traditional depictions, offering a darker, more nuanced portrayal of these creatures.

Alex "Pixel" Petrov

Gaming journalist & industry insider. Covers the latest game releases, updates, and behind-the-scenes dev stories. Knows every Easter egg, patch note, and upcoming title worth hyping. Always gaming, always analyzing.