Co-op action RPG Blighted delayed to 2027, studio confirms new release window

DrinkBox Studios, the Canadian team behind Guacamelee!, has announced that its upcoming Metroidvania action RPG Blighted will no longer arrive in fall 2026 as originally planned. The studio confirmed the delay in an update to fans, though it has not yet locked in a new launch date.

Why the Delay

The studio said it needs more development time to deliver the game at the level it envisions. Rather than rushing the title out within its original window, DrinkBox chose to extend its schedule, a move that should give players some confidence the team is prioritizing quality over a fixed deadline. No revised release window was provided alongside the announcement.

What Blighted Is About

Blighted stands out from DrinkBox's earlier work with a striking, fully rotoscoped art style and a darker tone than the studio's comedic Guacamelee! series. The game is set in a twisted, Western-flavored world and follows two characters, Sorun and Sene, as they battle through an infected landscape. Combat draws on combo-heavy action and RPG progression, blending the studio's signature tight controls with a grittier atmosphere.

The title was first revealed with a pitch-black cinematic trailer that quickly got attention for its unusual visual direction, marking a notable shift for a studio best known for bright, luchador-themed brawlers.

What Happens Next

DrinkBox Studios has not shared a replacement release date for Blighted, so players will want to keep an eye on the studio's official channels for updates. Until then, the game remains in active development, and the extra time in the oven may pay off when it finally launches.

Source: the original publisher