The next turn-based strategy game from Othercide studio Lightbulb Crew, Ex Sanguis, is taking its next step to launch, with a May 21 release set for Steam Early Access.
Announced during the Future Games Show Spring Showcase powered by HyperX, the vibe you get from the Ex Sanguis trailer is instantly recognizable. The horror vibe for one, the tactical depth, but also the dominant color palette of red, white, and back all clashing against each other in a bloody spectacle. Delightful.
The 30-second trailer hits fast with gameplay snippets, ending on a release window, now set for May 21 2026.
So what's Ex Sanguis all about? You're here to lead elite warriors – called Stillae – to save a dying world from the forces of stasis. And how do we do that? Through many turn-based battles, of course.
While engaging in turn-based combat, you'll be able to strategically trigger a chain of events across the battlefield to turn the tide. You've got Timeline Effects that can be used to hasten, delay, or swap time positions to impact the turn order in a way that favors you and disadvantages foes.
As with any XCOM-style game, you can also use your surroundings to your advantage – explode objects, ignite enemies, or block someone off, you name it. You've also got other spatial effects like knock-backs, forced facings, flanking bonuses, and damage-over-time.
Ex Sanguis also adapts a pleasing roguelite loop into the turn-based combat. Defeat the challenging enemies to gain bonus 'Corrupted Blood' you can use to get access to epic bosses earlier, or to spend in the Map Events to gain upgrades to customize your deadly squad. The further away you venture toward the outer rim of the map, the harder the standard Missions become.
As you play, the cycle never repeats. With each return, each playthrough, you carve new strength from failure and victory alike, unlocking forgotten powers and braving ever darker depths, where your greatest enemies await.
It looks like Ex Sanguis has plenty ahead, too. Developer Lightbulb crew plans for a six-month stay in Early Access, "but we’ll take the time needed to deliver a polished and complete experience." As such, "the timeline may adjust based on player feedback and development progress."
As for how the game will grow, here's what the devs have to say: "We plan to expand the game with additional content, improved balance, new features, and overall polish. We're also exploring the possibility of new game modes. Our aim is to build on the core mechanics and continue refining the game's performance and quality."
Not long to wait now. Wishlist the game on Steam, and if you're press or a content creator, you can request a code.
Join The Community
