Crowsworn: Everything We Know About the Upcoming Metroidvania

Understanding the Development Status of Crowsworn

Crowsworn has captured the attention of the indie gaming community since its successful 2021 Kickstarter campaign. Developed by the Canadian studio Mongoose Rodeo, the game is frequently discussed for its striking visual style and fluid combat, often drawing comparisons to genre staples like Hollow Knight and Bloodborne.

As of late 2026, the game is still in active development. While initial projections aimed for a 2023 release, the studio opted to delay the project to accommodate the game's increasing scope and ambition. There is currently no confirmed release date. Players should monitor official channels, such as the developer's Twitter or the official Steam store page, for the most accurate updates regarding its launch.

Gameplay Mechanics and Combat Philosophy

At its core, the game is a Metroidvania that emphasizes tight, responsive action. Players navigate the cursed kingdom of Fearanndal, a world described as being overrun by nightmarish, sightless creatures. The protagonist, a plague doctor-esque figure, relies on a combination of melee strikes and ranged attacks to survive.

Melee and Ranged Combat

Players wield a scythe for close-quarters encounters while utilizing dual guns to manage threats from a distance. The combat system encourages aggressive playstyles, mirroring the intensity found in soulslike titles.

Corvian Powers and Malice

Magical abilities, known as Corvian powers, provide tactical depth. These are fueled by an energy resource called "Malice," which is primarily replenished by successfully landing hits with the player's scythe. This creates a risk-reward loop where players must remain in the fray to maintain their magical utility.

According to community reports and early previews, the game features over 120 unique enemies and more than 30 bosses. The inclusion of a dedicated boss rush mode and planned post-launch DLC suggests a significant amount of content for players who enjoy mastering difficult encounters.

Visuals, Inspiration, and Atmosphere

The aesthetic of the game has been a major talking point. With a dark, gothic atmosphere, it leans heavily into the "Bloodborne-y" presentation that many fans of the genre gravitate toward. The development team has been transparent about their inspirations, citing Hollow Knight, Bloodborne, and Devil May Cry as foundational influences.

While comparisons to Hollow Knight are frequent—partially due to the involvement of marketing manager Matthew Griffin, who has previously worked with Team Cherry—the developers have expressed a clear intent to carve out a unique identity. The world of Fearanndal is designed to be a distinct, vibrant yet decaying kingdom that rewards exploration and curiosity.

Multi-Platform Availability and Game Pass

A major update from the November 2025 Xbox Partner Preview confirmed that the game’s reach will be broad upon release. Originally focused on PC, the developers confirmed that the title will launch simultaneously on:

• Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Nintendo Switch
• PlayStation 5
• Xbox Series X/S

Furthermore, it was announced that the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass on day one. This makes it highly accessible for subscribers of the service, though players who prefer to own their games can still look forward to the Steam release.

The Crowkart Spin-off

It is worth noting that the developers are also working on a separate project titled Crowkart. This is a multiplayer racing game set in the same universe. While an early build has been accessible to Kickstarter backers, the studio has clarified that it is a standalone project intended to be released for free after the main game is completed. It is not a replacement for the main experience but rather a companion title.

Tip

Avoid Confusion: Do not mistake Crowkart for the main Metroidvania title. Keep an eye on official announcements from Mongoose Rodeo to distinguish between updates for the primary action game and its racing spin-off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a playable demo available?

A backer-exclusive demo was released during the Kickstarter phase. However, there is no public demo currently available on the official store page.

Will it be a difficult game?

Based on early feedback from those who played the backer build, the game is noted for its challenging and fair difficulty, requiring precision in both movement and combat.

Who is composing the music?

The game’s atmospheric score is being composed by J.J. Ipsen.