RPG Hybrid Unveiled: Embracing the Essence of 'The Witcher' and 'Persona'

Rebel Wolves, a studio comprised of former CD Projekt Red developers, unveiled a cinematic trailer for their debut title, The Blood of Dawnwalker. This open-world RPG, reminiscent of The Witcher, features a dark fantasy setting, morally ambiguous choices, and a compelling outcast protagonist. Unique to the game, however, is its integration of Persona-like time management mechanics.

The recently released trailer, a blend of pre-rendered cutscenes and brief gameplay glimpses, highlights the game's Witcher-esque qualities. Announced initially as Dawnwalker in January 2024, the game was officially revealed as The Blood of Dawnwalker on January 13th, 2025, during a joint stream with publisher Bandai Namco. The trailer, clocking in at over four and a half minutes, introduces the setting and the Dawnwalkers—powerful vampire-like beings—alongside the protagonist, Coen, who becomes a Dawnwalker early in the game.

Echoes of The Witcher and a Persona Twist

The Blood of Dawnwalker's dark fantasy backdrop, monstrous creatures, and morally gray choices immediately evoke the Witcher franchise, particularly The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's Blood and Wine expansion. The game's emphasis on player agency is further underscored by its morality system, allowing players to choose whether Coen embraces his new Dawnwalker nature to save his family or clings to his humanity.

Beyond its Witcher influences, The Blood of Dawnwalker incorporates a novel gameplay mechanic: Persona-style time management. Every quest demands a time investment, creating a narrative sandbox where players must prioritize their actions. Co-founder and game director Konrad Tomaszkiewicz explains that completing every quest in a single playthrough is impossible, encouraging replayability and unique experiences.

Development and Release

Currently in development for PC and current-gen consoles (PlayStation and Xbox), The Blood of Dawnwalker is planned as the first installment in a trilogy. While a precise release date remains unannounced, given its 2022 development start and AAA budget, a 2027 release or later seems plausible. Rebel Wolves has promised a gameplay reveal in Summer 2025.