Step into the shoes of Aran de Lir, a skilled blacksmith and warrior transformed by personal tragedy. He uncovers a mystical hammer, unlocking the Forge of the Gods to craft extraordinary weapons to challenge Queen Nereia’s formidable army. Expect a 60–70-hour journey to conquer the game.

Immerse yourself in a breathtaking yet brutal fantasy realm. Encounter mythical creatures like trolls and elementals as you traverse enchanted forests and vibrant fields. The game’s striking visual style, with oversized limbs, towering structures, and a grand atmosphere, echoes Blizzard’s iconic designs. Stocky soldiers, reminiscent of Gears of War’s Locust, add a distinctive edge to the world.

The game boasts a remarkable weapon-crafting system and innovative combat mechanics, setting it apart from standard action titles:

Start forging by choosing a base template, then customize its size, shape, material, and attributes to define the weapon’s performance. A mini-game caps the process, where precision in strike strength, length, and angle determines the weapon’s durability and repair potential. Players can instantly reforge previously crafted weapons for ease. The developers foster a deep connection to your gear, encouraging its use throughout the adventure. If you fall in battle, your weapon remains at the death site but can be reclaimed. Carry up to four weapon types, switching seamlessly, each with unique stances for slashing or thrusting attacks. Instead of scavenging for weapons, craft them yourself, with seven varieties available, from halberds to dual axes.

The combat system hinges on directional strikes—target the face, torso, left, or right to exploit enemy weaknesses. For instance, bypass a guarded face by striking the body. Certain bosses, like trolls, feature extra health bars that unlock only after severing a limb, such as an arm wielding a club or their face to blind them temporarily. Stamina, vital for attacks and dodges, requires holding the block button to recharge, adding strategic depth.

Critics highlight potential drawbacks, including limited content, inconsistent difficulty, and a forging system that can feel clunky. Yet, the captivating setting and dynamic combat largely offset these flaws.

Blades of Fire launches May 22, 2025, on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via EGS.