Wolcen Studio Announces Project Pantheon: A New F2P Extraction Action RPG

Wolcen Studio, creators of the action RPG Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem, has unveiled Project Pantheon, a free-to-play game that merges hack-and-slash action with the high-stakes mechanics of extraction gameplay. Described as an ExtrAction RPG, Project Pantheon offers fast-paced combat and strategic decision-making, where players explore dangerous maps, secure valuable loot, and face the risk of losing their gear if they fail to extract in time. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic dark fantasy world rooted in mythologies from around the globe.

Andrei Chirculete, Game Director at Wolcen Studio, describes the game as a fusion of genres: “Project Pantheon is what happens when the fast, visceral combat of ARPGs collides with the high-stakes intensity of extraction games. It’s an exciting new take on both genres, and we’re eager to see how players react.” The game begins in The Realm of Fate, a reimagined Nordic afterlife where players serve Death itself, restoring order to a world ravaged by divine conflict and a mysterious “black tide.”

Key Features of Project Pantheon

• Genre-Blending Gameplay: Project Pantheon combines the combat depth of action RPGs like Diablo with the tension and risk-reward structure of extraction games like Escape from Tarkov. Players must decide when to extract safely or risk staying longer for greater rewards.
• Dynamic PvPvE Combat: Players will encounter both NPC enemies and rival players, creating a competitive and unpredictable environment where every mission is a gamble.
• Player-Driven Progression: Between missions, players retreat to their customizable fortress to upgrade gear, experiment with loadouts, and strategize. An open-market economy allows trading between players to foster cooperation and competition.
• Rich Mythological World: Drawing from global mythologies, the game features diverse settings and narratives. The starting location, The Realm of Fate, reimagines Norse myths with fantastical twists.

Closed Alpha Test Details

The first Closed Alpha Test for Project Pantheon begins this month, giving players in Europe and North America an early look at the game:

• Europe: January 25-26, 2025
• North America: February 1-2, 2025

This technical phase focuses on backend stability, server performance, and player feedback. Additional Closed Alpha tests for other regions will follow. Players can join the Wolcen Studio Discord and social channels for updates.

Wolcen Studio aims to incorporate player feedback to refine and shape Project Pantheon during its early development phase. With its unique blend of gameplay styles, the studio hopes to carve a fresh niche in the ARPG space.

Time will tell if Project Pantheon can make a name for itself in the highly competitive extraction genre which is currently dominated by games like Escape from Tarkov and Dark & Darker.

Further Reading: Official Website