We’ve been following the story of Bloodgrounds, a retro-style tactical title from developer Exordium Games and publisher Daedalic Entertainment. The roguelite gladiator simulation Bloodgrounds, developed by Exordium Games and published by Daedalic Entertainment, will leave Early Access and launch in version 1.0 on Steam on March 12th, 2026. Following major updates like Masters of the Arena and Trials of the Gladiator, version 1.0 expands the experience with new enemies and bosses, item crafting, additional systems, and extensive balancing improvements.
Bloodgrounds blends brutal, tactical grid combat with deep squad management, RPG progression, and roguelite elements. Players step into the sandals of a once-enslaved gladiator turned wealthy patron, commanding teams of physical, ranged, and magical fighters across blood-soaked arenas. With a striking visual style combining dark fantasy and gritty pixel-art gore, Bloodgrounds is set to captivate fans of XCOM, Darkest Dungeon, Heroes of Might and Magic, Into the Breach, Last Spell, and Battle Brothers, players who crave deep tactical gameplay and meaningful long-term progression.
Key Features
Highly Tactical Turn-Based Combat Master grid-based arena battles, unleash powerful abilities, and use traps, consumables, and divine powers to sway the fight.
Hardcore Roguelite Stakes Lose a fighter, lose them forever — along with their gear and progress. Surviving gladiators are rewarded with valuable loot and experience points, creating a satisfying and motivating progression loop.
Deep Squad Management Recruit, train, and upgrade gladiators; build unique class combinations; and balance trauma, status effects, and glory-seeking risks.
Audience and Arena Dynamics Win over the bloodthirsty crowd for battle rewards, or manipulate the underworld to sabotage rivals before the fight even starts.
A Dark Fantasy World Explore Marevento’s political intrigue, navigate a noble’s revenge quest, and rise through deadly tournaments toward the Emperor himself.
