Critical Role is expanding its video game ventures with the announcement of "ROCKBEASTS," a new story-driven, rock-and-roll management RPG set in an alternate 1990s America. The popular creator-owned media company is co-publishing the title with indie game studio LICHTHUND, with a planned launch for 2027 on Steam.
Players in "ROCKBEASTS" will step into the role of a band manager, guiding an up-and-coming grunge band from garage performances to stadium stardom. The gameplay will involve booking gigs, managing finances, maintaining equipment, and scheduling rehearsals. A significant challenge will be navigating the music industry's complex landscape, including predatory record labels and jaded executives.
The game features both RPG and choice-based systems, emphasizing that player decisions will have tangible consequences. In addition to its management elements, "ROCKBEASTS" will include rhythm-based performance gameplay, where the band's on-stage execution directly impacts their success.
This collaboration marks Critical Role's continued investment in the video game space. The company previously had a significant involvement in AdHoc Studios' comedy superhero game, "DISPATCH," which achieved substantial sales. The voice cast from Critical Role will lend their talents to "ROCKBEASTS," bringing the game's characters to life. Notably, Grammy Award winner Iggy Pop, often called the "Godfather of Punk," is also attached to the project, though his specific role has not yet been detailed.
Ben Van Der Fluit, SVP, Business and Content Development for Critical Role, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its character-driven narrative, humor, and emotional depth as elements that will resonate with the Critical Role audience. "We’re excited to bring ROCKBEASTS to players as we continue to expand our presence in the video game business," Van Der Fluit stated.
Bartek Pieczonka, Creative Director at LICHTHUND, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the creative synergy between the two companies. "We've always seen ROCKBEASTS as an idea that deserves the full stadium treatment. Critical Role is helping us deliver it," Pieczonka said. "The creative chemistry is already loud and clear, and it'll bring the game to the players it will resonate with the most."
With "ROCKBEASTS," Critical Role aims to build upon its success in video game partnerships, leveraging its dedicated fanbase and its experience in narrative-driven entertainment. The game is expected to appeal to both fans of Critical Role and those who enjoy management simulation and rhythm gameplay.