The release of REPLACED has been delayed a few weeks

GAMING NEWS Fyra Frost - 3 hours ago

The release of REPLACED has been pushed back once again, extending the wait for one of the indie video game scene's most visually striking projects. The developers opted to delay the launch following player feedback gathered from the recently published Steam demo. The studio revealed via X that the extra development time will be used to further refine gameplay systems and address technical concerns ahead of the full release.

The wait till be worth it

Developed by Sad Cat Studios and published by Thunderful Games, REPLACED first captured attention during its reveal at E3 2021. The title stands out for its cinematic 2.5D presentation, combining detailed pixel art with modern lighting techniques to create a dense, neon-soaked dystopia. Its art direction, heavily inspired by retro-futuristic interpretations of the 1980s, has been a central pillar of its marketing and early buzz.

Set in an alternate version of Phoenix-City, the narrative follows R.E.A.C.H., an artificial intelligence forcibly embedded into a human body. The story explores themes of identity, autonomy, and corporate dominance in a society shaped by technological overreach. Players navigate a decaying metropolis controlled by powerful corporations, gradually uncovering conspiracies that blur the line between machine and humanity.

From a gameplay perspective, REPLACED blends exploration-driven platforming with fluid, free-flow combat. Encounters emphasize timing and precision, allowing players to chain melee strikes, counterattacks, and ranged options while maneuvering through industrial complexes, urban rooftops, and underground sectors. Environmental storytelling and character interactions further deepen the world-building, positioning the game as both an action experience and a narrative-driven journey.

The recent demo release on Steam offered players a hands-on look at these mechanics. While the reception praised the visual design and atmosphere, some feedback pointed to areas where combat responsiveness and balance could be improved. According to the development team, the delay will allow them to implement adjustments that ensure the final product aligns with their intended creative standard.

Despite the setback, REPLACED remains scheduled for release on PC and Xbox platforms, including availability at launch through Xbox Game Pass. With expectations still high, the additional time may ultimately determine whether the game fulfills the promise it has carried since its debut. Visit our comparator to pre-order REPLACED at the cheapest price if you want to be ready to jump inot this adventure when its available to play on 14 April 2026.