Critical Role’s Next Game is a 90s Rock Band RPG starring Iggy Pop

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By Gaming News
12 October 2026 no comments

Key Takeaways
  • Rockbeasts launches in January 2027 for PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch.
  • The game features writing by Jakub Szamałek and voice acting from Matthew Mercer, Sam Riegel, and Iggy Pop.
  • A free two-episode demo is currently available on Steam, with a third episode unlocking on October 19.

Lichthund and Critical Role have officially announced Rockbeasts, a narrative-driven rock management RPG set in an alternative 1990s America. The title combines rhythm-based concert mechanics with deep music industry simulation.


When is the Rockbeasts release date?

Rockbeasts will officially launch worldwide in January 2027 for PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch. Developer Lichthund and publisher Critical Role confirmed this precise release window during the recent Triple-i Initiative showcase event while detailing their creative partnership.

Players do not need to wait until 2027 to experience the mechanics. The development team released a playable demo on Steam alongside the announcement, giving players immediate access to the early campaign.


Gameplay Mechanics and Development Pedigree

Rockbeasts places players in the role of a band manager rather than a frontman. The core gameplay loop requires players to balance finances, repair equipment, negotiate with record labels, and manage fragile personalities.

Studio Lichthund designed the systems so that success relies heavily on booking the right venues and maintaining band morale. The title features a strong narrative foundation. Jakub Szamałek, the principal writer for The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077, penned the script.

The campaign features over 100 characters and 90 locations rendered in a hand-drawn art style reminiscent of mature animation. The audio production includes 17 original full-length alternative rock tracks to capture the 90s grunge era. The voice cast features heavyweights from the video game industry and the music world.

According to the official PlayStation Blog, Critical Role members Matthew Mercer, Sam Riegel, and Liam O’Brien voice key characters, joined by rock legend Iggy Pop.

Also, learn more about the new games releasing this week!


How to play the Rockbeasts Steam Demo

PC players can download the Rockbeasts demo on Steam right now. The current build includes the first two episodes of the campaign, which introduce the financial management mechanics and the rhythm-based concert minigames.

Lichthund plans to expand this preview build shortly. The official Steam announcement confirms that a third episode will join the demo on October 19 to coincide with the Steam Next Fest event. The demo currently holds a 97 percent positive user rating on the platform.

Lichthund encourages players to leave feedback to help the studio balance the rhythm and management systems before the full launch arrives next year.

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A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !

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