A First Person Soulslike: A Daring Adventure
The soulslike genre has been on a bit of a tear in the past few years. From new IPs to the usual stand ins Fromsoft’s sway over the gaming industry has never been so evident in 2026. Whether or not these titles are able to live in the shadow of the titans is usually up to how much they understand what makes these games good. Soulslikes are not just games that are hard or games where the difficulty is the centerpiece, while everything else takes a back seat. No, what makes FromSoft so good at what they do is the stories they tell and how the gameplay enhances these stories.
If it’s not obvious by now, I am a huge fan of any soulslike. Everything from Dark Souls to Lies of P and everything in between has been a constant thorn in my side for as long as I can remember. But the best part is I love it. The challenge these games present and the tales they cling to are what make them stand out amongst the dozens of other action games released every year. But in a genre that is so clouded by naysayers and wannabes, how do you stand out?
If the trailer below, which was shown at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026, has anything to say about it, Valor Mortis is looking to do just that. Combining the hectic challenge of a soulslike game with the first-person freedom of the Ghostrunner series looks to be a recipe for success, and I am here for it.
You served Napoleon. You died for Napoleon. You have risen for Napoleon.
You are William, a soldier of the Grande Armée brought back from a battlefield grave. But the Europe you awaken to is not the one you sacrificed for. A mysterious plague now sweeps the continent, and you have been reborn with its corrupting power pulsing through your veins.
Set in a twisted vision of the Napoleonic Wars, you are William, a former soldier who rises from death and must confront the true cost of destiny, loyalty, and empire. When the emperor commands, will you shrink from the opportunity, or give everything for your country? Wield supernatural powers, battle horrifying monsters, and unravel a conspiracy that threatens all of humanity forged in the shadow of Napoleon’s ambition.
Valor Mortis marches onto XBOX Series X/S and PC on September 24th, 2026.
Will you be picking up Valor Mortis in September? What did you think of the release date trailer? Let us know in the comments below, and join Gamer Social Club Discord to chat about your favourite games, play in community game nights, tkae part in giveaways, and more!
