One look at The Blood of Dawnwalker from Rebel Wolves and its previous work on The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt becomes quite obvious, especially in the latest gameplay overview. The combat sticks out the most, though there is some Kingdom Come: Deliverance-style positioning for blocking attacks. However, it also pulls from a completely different type of role-playing game for a unique mechanic: “Speak With Dead” from Baldur’s Gate 3.
After encountering a Murohn in the abandoned wing of an alms house and slaying it, Coen can use a Hex spell known as Compel Soul. It’s only available in human form alongside other spells, but it serves to resurrect corpses with moths floating about them to ask for information. In this case, you discover that the local caretaker that Coen had to find had sacrificed someone for his own gain.
The approach is more straightforward than Speak With Dead, with Coen simply compelling the soul to reveal more information. Still, not having to ask only five questions is a relief. It’s worth noting that if the player tried investigating the alms house at night instead of during the daytime, Compel Soul would not be available. Which doesn’t sound too bad, but considering how precious time can be, it’s worth keeping in mind.
The Blood of Dawnwalker launches in 2026 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. Rebel Wolves has confirmed that the title is in pre-beta state and has even more to share before launch, so stay tuned.
