Blight: Survival is an ambitious medieval survival game that blends action-horror with roguelike and extraction-lite elements. Developed by Haenir Studio in partnership with Behaviour Interactive, it promises a unique and thrilling gameplay experience set in an alternate 14th century. The game plunges players into the unforgiving no man’s land between two desperate states locked in a ceaseless war. Strengthened by the blood that has been spilled, the Blight rapidly spreads, turning man into monster.
This 4-player co-op action-horror roguelite offers intense, immersive gameplay, where decision-making skills are as critical as your combat prowess. Here's a glimpse into everything you need to know about Blight: Survival, including its official gameplay reveal and development updates.
Blight: Survival takes place within this purgatory, a war-ravaged land between two desperate kingdoms. The ceaseless war has left the people paralysed by war and despair, giving rise to a new strain of Blight, which reanimates corpses into horrifying monsters. This extraction-lite game invites players to take on the role of one of the "Risen," venturing into these lands to destroy the Blight’s source.
The setting’s gritty realism is meticulously crafted, immersing players in a medieval world filled with secrets and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. As you explore these war-ravaged lands, you’ll uncover lore and make choices that could determine the fate of your kin. Every encounter feels alive, making the open world a core part of the game’s appeal.
The Blight, strengthened by the blood spilled in the ceaseless war, creates abominations that challenge even the most skilled players. This alternate 14th-century setting pits you against both human adversaries and realistic zombies, forcing you to adapt and survive. It’s not just about slashing your way through foes; decision-making and strategy are vital for success.
The gameplay in Blight: Survival stands out for its directional combat system and extraction-lite mechanics. As a survival game, it tests your ability to balance risk and reward. Do you extract early to keep your loot or push deeper into the unforgiving terrain for greater treasures?
The directional combat system allows players to attack, block, and parry with precision, offering a realistic and satisfying experience. Inspired by action-adventure games like Dark Souls, the combat is accessible for newcomers but has a high skill ceiling for experienced players. Weapon collision and weight are meticulously designed, adding to the immersion.
Players can customise their playstyle by choosing talents and weapons that best suit their approach. Whether you prefer stealth, brute force, or ranged attacks, the game offers diverse options. Armour and weapons are upgradeable, and each item can be tailored to your needs.
Blight: Survival introduces extraction-lite mechanics that keep the stakes high. Extract successfully, and you’ll retain your loot and progress. Fail, and you’ll lose everything except a fraction of your XP. This roguelite feature ensures every decision matters, from choosing when to retreat to how aggressively you push forward.
The crafting system allows players to create remedies, upgrade gear, and enhance their arsenal. Offering items to in-game deities can grant blessings, adding a layer of RPG elements to the gameplay. These mechanics ensure replayability and depth, making every run unique.
The unforgiving no man’s land is teeming with dangers. Blight: Survival pits you against humans and horrors alike, including zombie-like creatures such as the Rattler and gas-emitting mutants like the Swelter. Each enemy requires a distinct strategy, ensuring combat remains engaging.
Blight: Survival’s development has been an incredible journey. Initially a passion project by Haenir Studio, the game gained traction after its viral gameplay reveal on YouTube. The five-minute pre-alpha gameplay trailer showcased its potential, sparking massive interest and earning over 650,000 Steam wishlists.
In 2024, Haenir Studio announced a partnership with Behaviour Interactive, known for Dead by Daylight. This collaboration combines Haenir’s vision with Behaviour’s expertise in action-horror games, ensuring Blight: Survival lives up to its promise.
The game’s development team has expanded, bringing on veteran developers to refine every aspect, from the world’s immersive design to the combat mechanics. This unwavering support and enthusiasm from the gaming community have driven the project forward.
Blight: Survival is not just another zombie game; it’s a meticulously crafted action-horror roguelite set in a medieval world. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, coupled with its co-operative multiplayer mode, set it apart. The emphasis on customisation ensures that every player can find their unique playstyle.
The game also excels in its atmospheric design. The lands in a world filled with secrets and treasures feel alive, while the directional combat system keeps players engaged. The addition of RPG mechanics, such as crafting and XP-based progression, adds depth and replayability.
Haenir Studio has prioritised transparency throughout development. Regular updates, a thriving Discord community, and behind-the-scenes showcases have kept fans engaged. From sword customisation to enemy design, every aspect of the game has been shared with the community.
Fans can look forward to future updates, with Haenir Studio committed to delivering a polished product. The planned release date remains unconfirmed, but the game is expected to launch by 2026 on PC, with potential expansions to other platforms.
Although the planned release date has not been officially announced, anticipation continues to grow. The IGN coverage and positive feedback from the gaming world on YouTube highlight the excitement surrounding this survival game. Fans are encouraged to add the game to their wishlist and join the discussion on social media.
Blight: Survival’s open-world exploration, co-op gameplay, and unique mechanics make it a standout title to watch. The immersive medieval setting, combined with its action-adventure elements, promises a gaming experience like no other.
Blight: Survival is shaping up to be a masterpiece. Haenir Studio and Behaviour Interactive have created a game that blends action-horror with the strategic depth of an extraction-lite. Set in an alternate 14th century, it offers an unforgettable journey through a war-ravaged purgatory.
From its stunning visuals to its innovative gameplay mechanics, Blight: Survival delivers on all fronts. With customisation, co-op play, and an immersive world, it promises to redefine the survival game genre. Add it to your wishlist, join the community, and prepare to face the Blight when it finally releases.
