The new game from the Wolcen developers combines dark hack-and-slash action with exciting extraction gameplay and lets you fight for valuable loot in a mythological fantasy world.
With Project Pantheon, the Wolcen developers have announced their new game, which aims to bring a breath of fresh air to the action RPG genre.
The project combines classic hack-and-slay action à la Diablo with extraction mechanics made famous by Escape from Tarkov – all in a dark fantasy world inspired by mythological stories from around the world.
The developers describe the whole thing as an ExtrAction-RPG
– and we’ll tell you what you can expect from it.
This is what you can expect in the new Wolcen Studios game
In Project Pantheon, you take on the role of a being who is tasked by Death herself to restore balance to a shattered reality. The game world is based on dark reinterpretations of classic myths.
The gameplay is based on a mixture of PvPvE mechanics: You not only fight against AI-controlled opponents, but also have to hold your own against other players.
Success means valuable loot, which you can bring to safety after a successful extraction. If you fail, however, you risk losing your hard-earned equipment.
The first closed alpha of Project Pantheon;took place on January 25 and 26, 2025 in Europe. The main focus was on testing the technical aspects of the server infrastructure.
Nevertheless, a first playable insight awaits you. This is what the Alpha has to offer:
- First map to explore: An early version of the first map with basic gameplay elements and enemies. Among other things, you can take on the Nightmare of Fenrir, which lurks somewhere in the shadows.
- PvPvE combat: In addition to hostile creatures, you will also encounter other players.
- Pre-made character: A pre-made character is available for the Alpha. Character creation will follow in later versions.
- Controls: You can choose between modern WASD/twin stick controls and classic point-and-click controls. According to the developers, the modern approach is currently better optimized.
- Item system: Weapons determine your abilities and form the classes, so to speak. Additional equipment such as boots or artifacts provide defensive bonuses or powerful ultimates. A crafting system for modifying your equipment is planned.
- Base: Even while your home base is under construction, you can already use the storage, shop in the store, and start your adventure through a portal.
In a safe haven, you can improve your base, customize your equipment, and perfect your builds.
An open marketplace will also enable a player-driven economy where items can be traded. This aspect could be particularly interesting for fans of trading and crafting.
Project Pantheon will be released as a Free2Play live service game, but a release timeframe has not yet been announced.
