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Exploring witchfire: a new angle on soulslike gaming

Witchfire | Early Access Sparks Debate on Soulslike Claims

By

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 3, 2026, 10:38 PM

Edited By

David Brown

3 minutes of duration

Character battling dark creatures in a mystical setting with fire and magic effects.
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A lively discussion has ignited over the classification of Witchfire, currently in early access, as players weigh in on its soulslike elements. Some argue it leans more towards a roguelike FPS than a traditional souls-style game. Comments flooded in right after it released, revealing varied opinions on the game's genre, atmosphere, and mechanics.

The Soulslike Debate

Players are examining whether Witchfire can really be labeled as a soulslike, and the responses indicate a mixed bag of sentiments. Several noted features, like dodging and losing resources on death, hint at some inspiration, but many assert that these elements are overshadowed by its roguelike nature.

"Definitely has a similar dark fantasy atmosphere to Dark Souls, but itโ€™s not really much of a souls-like," commented one player, highlighting the game's unique approach.

Another player adds, "Itโ€™s more of a PvE extraction shooter with roguelike elements. It is extremely good though. I highly recommend it."

Curiously, while the game incorporates certain mechanics reminiscent of Dark Souls, it also distinctly channels influences from other titles, notably Doom and the Borderlands series.

Core Themes Emerging from Player Feedback

Dark Fantasy Atmosphere

  • Players appreciate the dark fantasy setting, which mirrors classic soulslike games.

  • "Solid 9/10 game but not much of a souls-like," remarked a fan, signaling overall satisfaction with the vibe.

Game Mechanics and Style

  • The gameplay centers around crafting and completing missions, moving away from exploration-based progression.

  • Several noted the "incredible gunplay" and unique weapons, which set it apart from traditional soulslike gameplay.

Early Access Feedback

  • Many have logged considerable hours, stating enjoyment despite the early access status.

  • One user remarked, "It is in early access, but thereโ€™s more than enough content in the game to be worth $30 even before 1.0."

Recent Developments

Sources confirm that Witchfire is set to hit its full release in fall 2026. Fans are eager to see how it will evolve as the developers continue refining gameplay features.

Key Takeaways

  • โœฆ Players largely see it as a roguelike FPS, not a pure soulslike.

  • โ€ป "Nowadays all it takes for a game to be preached as a souls-like is a dodge button" - common sentiment among players add skepticism.

  • โšก The game emphasizes a blend of progression systems, challenging combat, and strategic play, making it appealing to a broad audience, albeit with a different flavor than expected.

The conversations surrounding Witchfire continue to evolve as players explore its depths, shaping a unique identity in the gaming community.

What Lies Ahead for Witchfire

As Witchfire approaches its full release in fall 2026, players can expect more clarity around its identity. Thereโ€™s a strong chance that the developers will refine the game mechanics to further emphasize its unique blend of roguelike FPS elements. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that enhancements in gameplay will attract a broader audience, especially among fans of FPS and action RPG genres. Continuous feedback from early access will likely play a vital role in shaping future updates, and incorporating community-driven suggestions could enhance player retention and satisfaction.

A Bit of History: The Rise of Apex Legends

Reflecting on the situation with Witchfire, one might draw a parallel to the launch of Apex Legends. Initially viewed as just another battle royale, it reinvented itself by blending elements from various genres, leading to its significant success. Much like how Apex Legends surprised the gaming community with its innovative approach, Witchfire might redefine perceptions of soulslike gaming. This highlights that sometimes, the unexpected twists are what shape a gameโ€™s legacy, much like springing up a wildflower in an otherwise barren field.