Sequel to Lords of the Fallen Set for 2026: What We Know So Far
The gaming world is buzzing with excitement following the news that CI Games and Hexworks are working on the next instalment of Lords of the Fallen, the acclaimed action-RPG series. Scheduled for a 2026 release, this sequel is set to build on the franchise’s dark, Soulslike gameplay while incorporating new innovations. With leaks, rumours, and official statements swirling around, fans are eager to know what this next chapter will bring. Will it embrace the gritty appeal of the original or introduce a fresh take to attract a broader audience?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything we know about the upcoming Lords of the Fallen sequel, tentatively referred to as Project 3, and how it could potentially shake up the action-RPG genre.
The Lords of the Fallen Legacy: A Brief Recap
Before diving into the upcoming sequel, let’s take a quick look back at the history of Lords of the Fallen. The original game, released in 2014, aimed to capture the growing demand for challenging, dark fantasy action-RPGs popularized by games like Dark Souls. While it didn’t reach the same heights as its inspirations, Lords of the Fallen carved out a dedicated fanbase, thanks to its punishing combat and immersive world-building.
Fast forward to 2023, and CI Games rebooted the franchise with a fresh take on Lords of the Fallen. The game debuted with considerable excitement but was met with mixed reviews due to bugs and a somewhat unfinished feel. However, consistent updates and patches have improved the game’s overall experience, solidifying it as a worthy entry in the genre. Alongside Lies of P, Lords of the Fallen was considered one of the standouts Soulslike games of 2023.
Now, with a new sequel in development, fans are hopeful that CI Games will take lessons learned from the past and deliver a more polished, refined experience.
What’s in a Name? The Mystery Behind Project 3
The upcoming Lords of the Fallen sequel is currently being developed under the codename Project 3. However, there’s speculation that the final title will be Death of the Fallen, a name that has surfaced in various leaks. This title suggests that the sequel may carry forward the dark, brooding tone of its predecessors while potentially signalling a new chapter in the narrative.
Naming conventions aside, CI Games has promised that this new installment will take full advantage of Unreal Engine 5, offering players a more visually stunning and technically impressive experience. The shift to this cutting-edge engine is expected to bring not just graphical improvements but also more fluid and dynamic gameplay mechanics.
Gameplay Improvements: What Can Players Expect?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the new Lords of the Fallen sequel is how it will evolve the gameplay. While Soulslike combat is sure to remain a core feature, CI Games has hinted at several exciting new mechanics and enhancements.
Expanded Game Mode Options
According to a CI Games strategy report, the sequel will introduce increased game mode optionality. This likely means a broader selection of ways to experience the game, catering to different playstyles and preferences. Whether it’s more difficulty options, unique challenges, or varying ways to progress through the game, this flexibility could help broaden the game’s appeal to both hardcore fans and newcomers alike.
A More Commercial Art Style
In their recent strategy update, CI Games described the new art style as more “commercial.” But what does this really mean? While it’s not entirely clear yet, this could signal a more polished, mainstream aesthetic aimed at attracting a wider audience. Expect higher production values, possibly a more approachable colour palette, and an art style designed to appeal to a broader range of players without sacrificing the dark, gothic atmosphere that fans love.
Shared-Progression Co-op
One of the most exciting features confirmed for the new Lords of the Fallen game is the introduction of shared-progression co-op. This means players will be able to team up with friends in a seamless co-op experience while maintaining their own progress in the game. This cooperative element could bring a new level of depth and replayability, as players tackle the game’s difficult challenges together, without worrying about falling behind in their solo campaigns.
Epic Games Store Exclusivity: A Blessing or a Curse?
In a move that has divided the community, it’s been confirmed that the Lords of the Fallen sequel will launch as an Epic Games Store exclusive for PC. While this isn’t unusual for a game developed with Unreal Engine 5, many players are disappointed that the game will skip Steam at launch. The exclusivity deal is sure to be a hot topic, but it may also provide CI Games with additional resources to ensure the game meets the high expectations surrounding it.
The Sniper Ghost Warrior Connection: Reusing Assets for Faster Development
In addition to Lords of the Fallen, CI Games is also working on the next instalment in their Sniper Ghost Warrior series, which is expected to launch in 2027. Interestingly, the company has revealed that they’ll be reusing assets from two other projects Project Survive and SGW Next to expedite development.
This strategic reuse of resources could help speed up the production timeline for Lords of the Fallen, which is slated for a 2026 release. However, fans will be watching closely to see whether this approach impacts the quality or uniqueness of the final product.
A New Major Action-RPG in the Works
Alongside the Lords of the Fallen sequel, CI Games has also announced a new action-RPG currently in pre-production at Underdog Studio. This unnamed title will utilize systems and architecture from both the most recent Lords of the Fallen and its upcoming sequel. Slated for release in 2028, this project is still in its early stages, but it’s exciting to think about what CI Games might deliver with another major RPG.
When Will We See a Full Reveal?
Though Lords of the Fallen’s sequel is set for a 2026 release, fans won’t have to wait that long to get more details. CI Games has hinted that a full reveal of the game will happen sometime in 2025, giving us a clearer look at the gameplay, story, and what sets this entry apart from its predecessors.
The Competition: How Will Lords of the Fallen Stand Out?
Looking ahead to 2026, the Soulslike genre will undoubtedly be competitive. With FromSoftware yet to announce their next big title and Neowiz working on additional Lies of P content, Lords of the Fallen will need to carve out a niche for itself to stand out. By focusing on co-op gameplay, a more accessible art style, and enhanced progression systems, the sequel could fill a gap in the genre, appealing to both seasoned Soulslike veterans and those new to the genre.
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Lords of the Fallen
With CI Games pushing forward on several major projects, it’s clear they’re committed to growing their franchise portfolio. The Lords of the Fallen sequel, in particular, represents a major opportunity for the company to refine the formula and deliver a game that builds on the successes and learns from the mistakes of the past.
As we await further news, one thing is certain: 2026 can’t come soon enough for fans of dark, challenging action-RPGs. Whether you’re a diehard Soulslike fan or just curious about what’s next for Lords of the Fallen, this upcoming sequel is one to keep an eye on.
