turn-based combat, timeline manipulation, and a blood-soaked art style. Ready To Launch On May
Beginning with an early access launch date on PC, May 21st (2026), Ex Sanguis will be released as a tactical strategy game developed by Lightbulb Crew and published by Firesquid. The studio behind Othercide, is developing this game as a dark fantasy tactics RPG utilizing tactical combat, roguelite progression, and the unique red/black/white visuals.
In Ex Sanguis, you are commanding the Stillae; elite warriors who are attempting to save a world from being consumed by Stasis.
The combat system utilizes grid positioning combined with the developer’s term called “Timeline Effects”, allowing players to move units forward or backward in the turn order.
This is then utilized with battlefield interactions, including explosive objects, line of sight blocking, forced movement, flank bonuses, and damage over time effects; all contributing to a greater emphasis on sequencing and board control.
While utilizing a roguelite format around these battles, players will utilize the same basic format for mission design and procedural level design. Players are able to choose their route across a map, decide how much risk to take on each playthrough, and adapt to random skill drops while building synergies between units.
Missions feed into gradual progression, procedural levels lead to boss fights, failed runs contribute to long-term advancement.
Lightbulb Crew has announced they will be keeping Ex Sanguis in early access for at least six months. As of now, the studio states that the initial version is already fully playable and includes core gameplay systems along with several hours worth of content.
Additionally, the current roadmap for the development of Ex Sanguis focuses on additional content, balance work, new features, general polish and possibly extra game modes.
There is also a play test available on Steam, where players can request access and be notified when more spots open up. May 21, 2026 is the date when players can finally command the Stillae.
