Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse - Release Date Announced!
The highly anticipated Metroidvania roguelite, Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse, has officially locked in a release date. During the latest PlayStation State of Play presentation, publisher Pocketpair announced that the enchanting 2D action game will launch on March 5, 2026, for both PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4.
Developed by Frontside 180 and published by the team behind the breakout hit Palworld, Never Grave promises a unique blend of exploration, combat, and base-building, all centered around a magical, cursed hat. The announcement confirms the title's arrival on consoles, giving PlayStation gamers a firm date to circle on their calendars for this stylish and action-packed adventure.
What is Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse?
Never Grave is a 2D action-platformer with deep Metroidvania and roguelite elements. Players take on the role of a witch, accompanied by a cursed hat that grants her extraordinary abilities. The core gameplay loop involves delving into treacherous, procedurally generated dungeons, battling fearsome enemies, and using the hat's powers to possess and control foes.
Beyond simple combat, the game introduces a compelling base-building mechanic. As you explore and gather resources, you can rebuild and expand a village. This hub area serves as a place to craft new items, upgrade equipment, and prepare for your next descent into the ever-changing dungeons. The combination of intense, skill-based combat and strategic village management sets Never Grave apart in a crowded genre.
The game is designed to be played solo or with friends, featuring up to 4-player online co-op. This multiplayer component allows teams to tackle the dungeons together, combining their magical abilities and strategic thinking to overcome the toughest challenges and bosses the cursed world has to offer.
A New Chapter for Publisher Pocketpair
While developer Frontside 180 is at the helm of creation, the publishing power of Pocketpair brings significant attention to Never Grave. Following the monumental success of Palworld, Pocketpair has demonstrated a keen eye for engaging and innovative game concepts. By publishing Never Grave, the company is expanding its portfolio and using its newfound platform to champion other promising indie titles.
The partnership suggests a commitment to quality and player-focused experiences. Never Grave's intricate mechanics and compelling art style align with the kind of high-engagement games that have become Pocketpair's signature, signaling a promising future for both the publisher and the development studio.
Core Gameplay Mechanics Explored
Never Grave is built on a foundation of several interconnected systems that create a rich and replayable experience. Understanding these mechanics is key to appreciating the depth the game aims to deliver.
- The Cursed Hat: This is the game's signature feature. The hat allows the player to possess defeated enemies, gaining control of their unique skills and abilities. This system encourages experimentation, as players must strategically choose which foes to possess to navigate specific environmental puzzles or gain an edge in combat.
- Metroidvania Exploration: Players will explore vast, interconnected levels filled with secrets, obstacles, and powerful bosses. As you acquire new abilities, you'll be able to access previously unreachable areas, rewarding thorough exploration.
- Roguelite Elements: The dungeons are procedurally generated, ensuring that no two runs are ever exactly the same. This adds a high degree of replayability, challenging players to adapt their strategies with each new attempt.
- Village Rebuilding: A key part of the progression loop involves using materials found in dungeons to restore a ravaged village. This acts as your central hub, where you can unlock new facilities, interact with NPCs, and craft potions and gear that provide permanent upgrades for subsequent runs.
- Four-Player Co-op: You can team up with up to three other players to explore the world of Never Grave. Multiplayer enhances the strategic possibilities, allowing for coordinated attacks and team-based problem-solving to conquer the game's most formidable challenges.
The Road to 2026
With a confirmed release date of March 5, 2026, the two-year wait for Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse on PlayStation will be one filled with anticipation. The announcement provides a clear timeline for fans who have been following the game's development. While the title also has a presence on Steam for PC players, this console-focused announcement from the State of Play broadcast solidifies its multi-platform ambitions.
As the launch approaches, we expect to see more detailed gameplay showcases, developer insights, and information on pre-order bonuses. For now, the reveal has successfully placed Never Grave on the radar as one of the most promising indie titles set to arrive in early 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions about Never Grave
What is the release date for Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse?
Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse is set to release on March 5, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. A PC release via Steam is also planned, though a specific date for that version has not yet been announced.
What kind of game is Never Grave?
It is a 2D action-platformer that combines Metroidvania-style exploration with roguelite elements, base-building, and a unique enemy-possession mechanic.
Who is the publisher of Never Grave?
The game is published by Pocketpair, the company best known for developing and publishing the massive hit, Palworld.
Is Never Grave a multiplayer game?
Yes, Never Grave will feature online co-op for up to four players, allowing friends to explore dungeons and fight bosses together. It can also be played as a single-player experience.