Crystal Dynamics has officially unveiled “Legacy of Kain: Ascendance,” marking the franchise’s highly anticipated return after a two-decade hiatus. This new entry, a prequel to “Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver,” is a fast-paced 2D action platformer that emphasizes vertical exploration, dynamic combat, and a deep, skill-driven gameplay experience. Fans will be thrilled to hear that the original voice cast, including Simon Templeman as Kain, Michael Bell as Raziel, Anne Gunn as Ariel, and Richard Doyle as Moebius, are reprising their iconic roles, enriching the narrative that unfolds in Nosgoth’s dark fantasy realm. Developed by Bit Bot Media in collaboration with FreakZone Games, “Ascendance” will bring its retro pixel-art visuals and anime-inspired cinematics to players on March 31, 2026, across multiple platforms. Alongside this new title, a remastered version of the 2003 action-adventure classic, “Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered,” is also set for release on March 3, 2026, featuring updated graphics and controls.
Crystal Dynamics Revives 'Legacy of Kain' Franchise with New Prequel and Remastered Classic
On February 12, 2026, Crystal Dynamics revealed two major projects for the beloved “Legacy of Kain” series. The first, “Legacy of Kain: Ascendance,” is a brand-new 2D action platformer that serves as a prequel to “Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver.” This game is meticulously crafted to offer vertical movement, fluid combat, and skill-based gameplay, intertwining story and narrative seamlessly through gameplay, cutscenes, and world design. The dark fantasy world of Nosgoth is brought to life with beautifully rendered retro pixel art and anime-influenced cinematics, presenting a fresh story within collapsing kingdoms, haunted ruins, and fractured timelines.
A significant highlight for long-time fans is the return of the original voice cast. Simon Templeman will once again lend his voice to Kain, Michael Bell to Raziel, Anne Gunn to Ariel, and Richard Doyle to Moebius, ensuring an authentic and nostalgic experience. Published by Crystal Dynamics and developed by Bit Bot Media in association with FreakZone Games, “Ascendance” is scheduled for release on March 31, 2026. It will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.
In addition to the new prequel, Crystal Dynamics also announced “Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered,” a modernized version of the 2003 action-adventure title. This remaster will feature enhanced graphics, updated controls, and extensive bonus content, allowing both new and returning players to experience the timeless dark fantasy. Developed by Crystal Dynamics and PlayEveryWare, “Defiance Remastered” will launch earlier, on March 3, 2026, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC platforms. Both titles are currently available for pre-order, promising to reignite the passion for the “Legacy of Kain” universe.
The announcement of both a new installment and a remaster for the "Legacy of Kain" series represents a powerful commitment to a cherished franchise. It demonstrates how developers can honor a game's legacy by preserving its original essence through returning voice actors and classic art styles, while simultaneously innovating with new gameplay mechanics and modernized visuals. This dual release strategy not only caters to long-time enthusiasts but also invites a new generation of players to explore the rich lore and dark fantasy world of Nosgoth, bridging the gap between nostalgic charm and contemporary gaming expectations. It's a reminder that beloved stories can always find new life, given the right vision and dedication.