Lords of the Fallen 2 locks in 2026: Hexworks doubles down on faster, bloodier Soulslike combat

Gamescom 2025 debut sets the tone: two realms, shared progression, and a meaner moveset

Lords of the Fallen 2 is official and slated for 2026, with CI Games and Hexworks unveiling the sequel during the Gamescom cycle alongside a new trailer that leans hard into speed and aggression. The follow‑up shifts the timeline roughly a century after the 2023 reboot and keeps the twin‑realms hook intact, promising a larger Umbral layer, faster recovery windows, and boss design that punishes hesitation. A public reveal trailer is live on YouTube, and early previews stress optional PvP, online co‑op with shared campaign progression, and broader buildcraft across melee, sorcery, and hybrid kits.

Watch the reveal trailer

What’s new and what carries over

Combat pacing: Animations and cancels look snappier, with a push toward pressure play and cleaner stagger rules.
Two‑realm traversal: The Umbral lamp returns; realm swapping expands with more bespoke routes, traps, and realm‑exclusive threats.
Co‑op structure: Online campaign co‑op keeps progression for both players; optional PvP adds opt‑in friction without undercutting PvE.
Systems carryover: Expect a broader stat spread, weapon infusion paths, and a deeper spellbook to support hybrid routes.
Platforms: Launch planned for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with storefront messaging centering on Epic for PC at reveal.

Why veterans should care

The first game found its footing post‑launch after a substantial 2.0 overhaul that cleaned up netcode, balance, and co‑op flow. Hexworks says that learning cycle feeds directly into the sequel’s baseline. Faster recoveries and more assertive enemies point to a higher skill ceiling, while the Umbral layer—already the standout mechanic—gets more deliberate encounter design. If the team lands consistency in hit reactions and boss scripting, this could be the scrappy Soulslike that finally plays to its world’s strengths rather than fighting the engine.