Critical Role teams with Lichthund to co-publish Rockbeasts

Critical Role has partnered with Polish developer LICHTHUND to co-publish ROCKBEASTS, an upcoming 1990s band management RPG slated for release in 2027. The agreement expands the creator-owned media company’s publishing footprint after its commercial involvement in Adhoc Studio’s DISPATCH, while adding voice talent from the core Critical Role cast to the game’s roster alongside punk vocalist Iggy Pop.

Set across an alternate-history 1990s America, the game puts players in control of a struggling grunge outfit trying to transition from basement rehearsals to arena tours. Mechanics balance resource allocation, tour logistics, ego management, and dialogue branches against rhythm-based gig performances where crowd reception directly affects band morale and industry reputation.

ROCKBEASTS Core Production Details

Gameplay and Setting

Players manage band finances, equipment upkeep, rehearsal calendars, and contracts offered by predatory record labels and venue promoters. Decisions force trade-offs between creative integrity and commercial viability, determining which band members remain committed or walk away under industry strain.

Jakub Szamałek, the narrative director behind The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Cyberpunk 2077, directs the script. The visuals use hand-drawn adult animation styling, paired with an original 17-track grunge score that secured “Excellence in Audio” honours at the DevGAMM Awards, alongside nominations at gamescom.

LICHTHUND and Critical Role confirmed that further details regarding the voice cast and gameplay systems will be revealed during the upcoming Triple-i Initiative showcase.

Wishlists are open on the ROCKBEASTS Steam Page, with production updates available at ROCKBEASTS.com.