Critical Role Joins Rockbeasts, Launching January 2027

Developer Lichthund has officially announced a major partnership with Critical Role for its upcoming title, Rockbeasts. The collaboration spans both creative development and publishing support, aiming to elevate the game beyond its original scope. According to the studio, this alliance provides the necessary backing to fully realize their vision for the project, which has been designed around a highly specific theme rather than conventional genre formulas.

Described as a rock and roll management role-playing game, Rockbeasts places players in the role of a band manager rather than a performing musician. The gameplay revolves around taking an unpolished band from humble garage rehearsals to major concert stages. Players will be tasked with handling resource management, navigating volatile band personalities, resolving unexpected crises, and maintaining order amidst the chaotic lifestyle of aspiring rock stars.

Lichthund's Creative Director and Co-CEO, Bartosz Pieczonka, shared that the game's unconventional nature made it a challenging project to pitch and categorize. Because the game is driven by emotion and personal musical experiences rather than algorithmic trends, securing the right support was crucial. The partnership with Critical Role is expected to help the game reach its target audience and achieve its full potential without the developers having to compromise on their original ideas.

In addition to the publishing and creative alliance, prominent Critical Role members Matthew Mercer and Sam Riegel have officially joined the voice cast of Rockbeasts. Pieczonka expressed immense enthusiasm for their involvement, noting that bringing their signature energy, commitment, and sense of chaos to the characters is a dream come true for the development team. Their performance is expected to perfectly match the unhinged nature of the band members players must manage.

The studio acknowledged that while there is still significant work ahead to polish the game and resolve remaining development tasks, the team feels fully prepared for the final stretch. Lichthund expressed deep gratitude to early supporters who believed in the unconventional concept, while welcoming new players who are just discovering the project as it nears its final stages of production.

Rockbeasts is officially scheduled to launch on the PlayStation 5 in January 2027. Ahead of the release, interested players can now add the game to their wishlists on the platform. More updates regarding the title and its cast are expected to be shared as the launch window approaches.