Rebel wolves eyes second ip – blizzard-style refreshment fuels dawnwalker sequel plans

Rebel Wolves, the studio behind the atmospheric RPG The Blood of Dawnwalker, isn’t planning a singular, decade-long commitment to its initial project. CEO and co-founder Konrad Tomaszkiewicz has revealed ambitions for a second intellectual property, mirroring Blizzard’s strategic approach of diversifying its portfolio.

Beyond the prologue: a shift in strategy

While The Blood of Dawnwalker’s promotional efforts consistently emphasized the game as the beginning of a broader saga – with creative director Mateusz Tomaszkiewicz hinting at “breadcrumbs and hints” for future installments – Tomaszkiewicz’s recent comments suggest a more nuanced vision. During a visit to Rebel Wolves’ Warsaw headquarters, he outlined a plan to release a sequel to Dawnwalker and a completely new IP, followed by a return to the original saga.

“I think that it’s really smart to work how Blizzard worked before,” Tomaszkiewicz stated, referencing the studio’s success with franchises like Warcraft and StarCraft. “They had Warcraft, but they also created StarCraft. It’s smart because people need refreshment.” He stressed the importance of introducing a “second IP” to keep players engaged and prevent creative stagnation – a critical consideration for any long-term studio.

Tomaszkiewicz elaborated, “I think that, some time from now, we will do one game from [the Dawnwalker] IP and a second game from a different IP, and then back to [Dawnwalker].” The studio’s focus remains firmly anchored in delivering a compelling experience, prioritizing the well-being of its team – a sentiment echoed by Tomaszkiewicz’s desire to foster a sustainable and creatively stimulating environment. He acknowledged his 17-year tenure at CD Projekt Red, highlighting the challenges of “the same but different” projects, and emphasized the team’s role as the studio’s most vital asset. It’s a refreshing perspective, particularly in an industry often driven by short-term metrics.

The Blood of Dawnwalker is slated for release later this year, September 3rd. But the bigger picture here isn’t just another RPG; it’s a signal of Rebel Wolves’ ambition and a calculated move towards sustained growth – a strategy that could redefine its place within the genre. The prospect of a bold new IP, coupled with the promise of continued exploration within the Dawnwalker universe, offers a compelling narrative for the studio’s future.