While not one of the most well-known upcoming titles, developer Cyanide has been generating positive interest in Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Earthblood since it was first presented to the public at E3 2019. The latest trailer for the single player action role-playing game has appeared at Gamescom 2020, and is a cinematic one, showing the lead character Cahal fighting a mech, while revealing brief clips of the back-story.
In the trailer for Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Earthblood, eco-terrorist Cahal is investigating a building linked to in-game oil company Endron, Cahal is spotted by the security systems and the mech is released. The glimpses of the past suggest that Endron shot at Cahal and his werewolf pack previously after leading a demonstration against the company. The trailer also hints at the rage system that will define much of the gameplay.
Cahal has shape-shifting powers, which can take on human form, werewolf form, and that of a regular wolf. Players will need to keep careful track of Cahal's rage while progressing through the game. If the rage overflows, Cahal will enter a frenzy state where the character is more powerful, but also less able to process information. The rage meter will rise when Cahal learns about destruction, greed, and pollution caused by humans. Players can also add and develop skills through a skills tree system, as well as access nature based power ups.
Werewolf: The Apocalypse is based on the table-top game of the same name by White Wolf Publishing, who are working with Cyanide to ensure that the video game stays true to the series. The story is based in the American Northwest, and set in the World of Darkness, a darker and more gothic version of the contemporary world, with vampires, werewolves and other supernatural creatures.
Although some fans of the series have criticized the graphics and movement in the trailers, the overall reception appears to be positive, with many grateful that a series such as Werewolf: The Apocalypse is getting a video game treatment at all. The strong ecological themes may put a few people off, but it could hardly be a more relevant topic for a game focused on characters trying to change the world for the better. Plus the game is reportedly designed to encourage players to consider and make personal decisions, rather than be handed "correct" answers.
If Cyanide can create a title that engages players with thought-provoking questions as well as providing high quality combat and exploration, it stands a good chance of attracting an audience beyond fans of the table-top series.
Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Earthblood is scheduled to launch on February 4 2021, on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.