Fans of roguelike and Metroidvania-style games have been eagerly awaiting news on Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse. After months of speculation, the release date has finally been confirmed: March 5, 2026. This marks a major milestone for Pocketpair Publishing, known for its breakout success with Palworld, as it expands into new creative territory with this dark, magical side-scroller.
Gameplay Overview
- Genre: 2D roguelike action with Metroidvania elements.
- Core Mechanic: Players wield a cursed witch’s hat that allows them to possess enemies and use their abilities.
- Combat Style: Magic-driven battles with skill trees, equipment upgrades, and terrain-based strategies.
- Exploration: Auto-generated dungeons including ruins, botanical gardens, and mystical landscapes, ensuring each run feels unique.
- Co-op Mode: Up to four players can join online, combining abilities to tackle bosses and puzzles together.
Release Details
- Date: March 5, 2026
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam
- Price: $16.99 / £13.99 / €13.99 / ¥1,980
- Special Edition: A bundle including the official soundtrack will be available for $20 / £15.49 / €16.99 / ¥2,384.
- Pre-Orders: Already open on PlayStation Store, with discounts for PlayStation Plus subscribers.
Developer’s Vision
Yasuomi Sakai, producer and director at Frontside 180 Studio, emphasized that the game is about challenge and growth. The design philosophy centers on the roguelike loop of failing, learning, and progressing, with each attempt offering new discoveries and incremental mastery.
FAQs
Q1. What is the release date for Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse?
The game is scheduled to release on March 5, 2026, across multiple platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Q2. What type of game is Never Grave?
It is a 2D roguelike action game with Metroidvania elements. Players explore procedurally generated dungeons, battle enemies, and unlock new abilities.
Q3. What is the main gameplay mechanic?
Players use a cursed witch’s hat to possess enemies and harness their powers, adding a strategic layer to combat and exploration.
Q4. Does the game support multiplayer?
Yes. Never Grave features online co-op for up to four players, allowing friends to team up and tackle dungeons together.
Q5. Who is developing and publishing the game?
The game is developed by Frontside 180 Studio and published by Pocketpair, the same company behind the popular title Palworld.
Conclusion
With its blend of roguelike unpredictability, Metroidvania exploration, and cooperative play, Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing indie releases of 2026. The confirmed release date of March 5, 2026 gives fans a clear target to mark on their calendars, and the newly revealed gameplay trailer has only heightened anticipation.
Gematsu – Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse Release Date Announced