Developer Paper Cult is opening the gates for full game playtests starting in March 2026. For a cooperative hack-and-slash roguelike, this phase is critical. Procedural generation and wave-based combat live or die by their balance, and getting hands-on time with the community will likely refine the meta before the 1.0 launch. If you've been waiting to test the synergy between different battalion builds, this is your best shot at influencing the final product.
The game is also taking center stage at two major industry events. Tears of Metal is currently being featured at the Quebec Games Celebration and is locked in for a spotlight at IGN Fan Fest 2026 next week. These showcases are expected to dive deeper into the mystery of the Dragon Meteor and show off the visceral combat mechanics that define this medieval brawler.
With playtests on the horizon and a refined Spring launch target, the focus has clearly shifted from "soon" to "polished." For players, this means more time to see the game in action through upcoming media slots before finally getting to lead their own battalions into the fray later this year.
Soren