Spend enough time in the depths of apocalyptic dark fantasy worlds, and the lines differentiating them start to blur. However, when CI Games and Hexworks revealed the Crescent Host, an enemy from the upcoming Lords of the Fallen 2, some had accused the companies of plagiarizing FromSoftware’s designs.
It’s easy to see why – squint hard enough and the figure, a devotee of moon goddess Menasilde that underwent a drastic change under “death’s shadow,” resembles the Wylder from Elden Ring Nightreign. However, CI Games CEO Marek Tyminski has since hit back against the accusations by revealing that its armor design was finalized in July 2024, several months before Nightreign’s reveal.
“I’m pleased to prove that yesterday’s accusations of plagiarism are 100% false,” said Tyminski on Twitter, who added that it was implemented in-engine by October 2024. Once again, that’s before the existence of FromSoftware’s co-op rogue-lite title became known to the world. Chalk it up to coincidence, especially since both companies dabble so much in fantasy.
“Visual overlap can occur in medieval fantasy design. We respect FromSoftware, but we do not copy other studios,” he said. “The armour designs in Lords of the Fallen were widely praised, and we’re confident Lords 2 will be no different. We stand fully behind our artists, their originality, and the integrity of their work.”
Launching in 2026, Lords of the Fallen 2 will be available for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC (which is published by Epic Games). The first gameplay debuted at The Game Awards 2025, showcasing epic bosses such as the Heartroot Warden and Koydreth. Brutal dismemberment was one of the highlights, and creative strategist Ryan Hill later confirmed that players could lop off all of an enemy’s limbs. Head here for more details.
It’s great to see the studio addressing these concerns directly. Dark fantasy worlds can often share similarities, so it’s interesting to hear their perspective on the matter. Looking forward to seeing how they continue to develop their unique vision!
You’re right; the genre does have overlapping themes and aesthetics. It’s interesting how studios can take inspiration from one another while still carving out their unique identities. I’m curious to see how Lords of the Fallen 2 manages to distinguish itself amidst these comparisons!
Absolutely, the blending of themes can lead to innovative interpretations. It’s fascinating how each studio brings its unique twist to familiar elements, which can enrich the gaming experience even further.
Absolutely, the blending of themes can lead to innovative interpretations. It’s fascinating how each game can draw inspiration from the same genre while still offering unique experiences. Lords of the Fallen 2, for instance, seems to be focusing on its own lore and mechanics, which could really set it apart from others in the dark fantasy realm.