Hi, I’m Jessica from com8com1, the developer of the retro-inspired survivors-like Bloodshed, which is coming to Xbox this week. Today, I would like to let you in on the story of how the game went from being an art prototype, that turned 3D assets into 2D sprites, to a fully-fledged game that launched on PC earlier this year, and is now coming to consoles, too.

How Bloodshed Came to Be

Our goal was to perfect – and even surpass – the iconic look of 90s shooters like Blood or Hexen using cutting-edge technology. We have always been inspired by classic retro shooters and the technical and stylistic boundaries they worked within. So, the original plan was to build an experimental prototype that converts 3D models into 2D sprites at runtime.

After working on this concept for a while, the idea emerged to integrate it into a survivors-like gameplay concept. We quickly encountered performance issues with up to 100 enemies on screen at once, so we switched to a different workflow using pre-rendered 2D sprites instead. Although  the method changed, the technique remained style-defining for the entire project.

Combining Modern Technology and Retro Graphics

Because of its roots as an art tool, graphic design is not only an aesthetic choice but also an essential part of how players experience Bloodshed. In our interpretation and love letter to the classics, we tried to blend the best of the modern technologies we have available now, with the limitations and feeling of a retro game. This is why we are working with a custom-made 256-color palette for all in-game assets and classic sprite-based enemies, whose technical sophistication and artistic depth create an atmosphere that would have been impossible to create in the 90s.

We ended up developing a unique and highly elaborate workflow: each of the more than 40 enemy types was modeled as a highly detailed high-poly 3D figure, carefully animated and lit. These models were then rendered frame by frame into more than 5,700 individual sprites, bringing enemy movements to life through a painstaking, stop-motion-like process. Combining these classic graphics approaches with contemporary rendering and shader technology creates an unmistakable look that is both retro and modern.

The Next Step for our Game

Our community has been a cornerstone throughout Early Access, inspiring many of the improvements now launching with the console versions from day one. The Workbench System, which adds more variety and replayability, was created directly from player feedback, as were new enemy types and additional game modes. We’ve also implemented a wide range of accessibility and quality-of-life features, including adjustable screenshake and flash intensity, weapon holstering and quick switching, an expanded XP pickup range, and the ability to turn 180 degrees at the press of a button.

Out Now

We hope you’ll enjoy our roguelite survivors-like FPS even more now, knowing how much of our hearts went into the creation of the look and feel of the game. We’re excited to offer console players the most complete version of Bloodshed yet—at its absolute best.

Bloodshed is available right now on Xbox.

Bloodshed

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☆☆☆☆☆
7

★★★★★

$12.99

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Bloodshed is an exhilarating fusion of Roguelite elements merged with retro-styled visuals and first-person “Survivors-like” frenetic combat action: Face endless waves of undead foes, collect experience points, and upgrade your skills and weapons in a battle to survive the night. Even after death, you keep your hard-earned money which can be exchanged for persistent improvements and unlockable content, allowing you to progress further while adding depth to the overall gameplay.

Face the malevolent threat of the Cult, whose members are pursuing a sinister plan to resurrect an ancient deity to bring about the apocalypse. Battle countless cultists, undead, demons, and other creatures of the night and send them (back) to their graves!

Each enemy presents a unique challenge and requires its own strategy – and you’d better get ready quickly, because they come in masses!

Bloodshed boasts a diverse roster of playable characters, each with distinct abilities and playstyles, providing a personalized gameplay experience. With a vast selection of weapons and skills at your disposal, you can experiment with various builds to discover the ideal strategy for your survival.

With a bit of luck and the right strategy you will stand your ground against the hordes of darkness!

Death doesn’t stop you from progressing. Persistent upgrades, unlockable content, and continuous improvement await in Bloodshed, with the ability to exchange hard-earned cash for permanent upgrades. You can also complete optional objectives for unlocking new skills and game features, ensuring each run pushes you further into the depths of the Cult’s dark world.

Features:
Engaging FPS Gameplay: Experience fast-paced, intense auto-shooter battles across a variety of biomes
Diverse Character Selection: Play as distinct heroes, each with unique strengths, weaknesses, and special abilities.
Extensive Arsenal: Discover and upgrade numerous weapons and skills to craft the ultimate build
Permanent Upgrades System: Progress continuously, unlocking permanent character upgrades to boost replayability
Dynamic Enemy Hordes: Fight against adaptable enemies with unique abilities and attack patterns. Face off against elite foes who offer even more loot!
Retro Look, Rockin’ Feel: Enjoy pixelated Boomer Shooter graphics and highly dynamic, fluid movement mechanics.
Immersive Soundtrack: Dive into the atmospheric world of Bloodshed with an adaptive soundtrack that intensifies the action.
Visceral Combat: Relish the visually striking gore effects and satisfying combat that elevate every battle.
Swappable Shooting Modes: Use auto-shooting for a more Survivors-like experience, or “switch to manual” to aim and shoot your way!