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Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night Receives Unexpected Update 5 Years Later

A recent substantial update for Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night introduces a plethora of fresh content to the long-standing Metroidvania-style game.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night Receives Unexpected Update 5 Years Later

Highlights

  • Update 1.5 for Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night introduces new multiplayer features and cosmetic options on May 9.
  • The game, born from a successful Kickstarter campaign, is commended for its Metroidvania gameplay and captivating 2.5D visuals.
  • Chaos Mode offers cooperative play, while Versus Mode presents an exciting competitive PVP mode.

Recently, the creators of the 2019 hit Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night have unveiled a surprising announcement of a substantial update scheduled to hit the game next week. The impending Update 1.5 will usher in fresh cosmetic items and two additional multiplayer modes to Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night.

Crafted by ArtPlay, an indie game developer under the guidance of former Castlevania series producer Koji Igarashi, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night originated from one of the most triumphant Kickstarter projects in gaming history. The fundraising campaign amassed over $5.5 million, surpassing its initial goal by more than 11 times, and the retro-style platformer has sold over 2 million copies since. Set in 18th-century England, players follow the story of orphaned Miriam as she navigates a demon-infested castle in a quest to rid herself of an alchemist’s curse.

Recognized as the true heir to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night due to its gratifying Metroidvania gameplay and visually appealing 2.5D graphics, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night has undergone numerous updates over its five-year existence. While previous patches introduced new playable characters and single-player adventures, ArtPlay’s latest roadmap reveals that one of the most substantial updates yet is on the horizon. Update 1.5 is set to launch on May 9 for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, and on May 16 for Nintendo Switch. The final free content update for Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night will encompass two multiplayer modes and a complimentary cosmetic pack. Players can further modify Miriam's appearance with three premium cosmetic packs featuring 'multiple unique clothing items and weapons, each with upgradeable stats.'

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night Roadmap Breakdown

  • May 9: Update 1.5 arrives on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, adding two new multiplayer modes, along with one free and three paid cosmetics packs.
  • May 16: Update 1.5 debuts on Nintendo Switch.
  • TBA: Expect the release of the “Classic II: Dominique’s Curse” Premium DLC, a retro paid expansion featuring a fresh storyline on a larger map.

Chaos Mode, the initial addition to the esteemed dark gothic fantasy adventure, permits two players to collaborate against waves of enemies and bosses in a cooperative survival battle. By overcoming challenges, players can earn 'powerful upgrades' as they progress through a series of randomized encounters. On the other hand, Versus Mode offers a competitive twist with a 'special PVP mode tailored exclusively for Ritual of the Night.' In this mode, two players engage in combat against demon waves in separate arenas, accumulating souls to acquire enhanced weaponry and armor while striving to outlast their opponent. Unique abilities can be purchased to disrupt rivals, such as enveloping their space in fog or reversing their controls. Both multiplayer modes support local and online matchmaking on the same platform, though cross-platform play is not supported.

ArtPlay has also disclosed that a subsequent expansion is currently in the works. Dubbed “Classic II: Dominique’s Curse,” this premium DLC will present 'the same retro gameplay as Classic Mode but on a larger map with its own canonical storyline.' Additionally, the studio has announced plans to commence work on the physical PC version of the game, the final Kickstarter pledge to be fulfilled. Recently added to Game Pass, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night now offers Xbox players the opportunity to prepare before the multiplayer update goes live next week.

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