Since the beginning of its Advent calendar, Epic Games Store is offering free games at a rate of one per day, until the beginning of next year. A mechanic now well known to PC players, who scrutinize each date carefully, in the hope of coming across a notable production.
After several well-received titles but considered intermediate by part of the community, the question clearly arose: would the seventh game finally raise the level? The answer came sooner than expected, since a reliable leak revealed the name of the game before its official announcement.
As Gameblog states, “Today’s new free Epic Games Store game has already leaked. It’s still very good». Information which quickly circulated on social networks and specialized forums, reigniting interest around this daily offer.
A modern metroidvania that embraces its influences
The game in question is not new, but it enjoys a solid reputation among fans of the genre. It is about Bloodstained: Ritual of the Nighta metroidvania with RPG mechanics, often cited as a spiritual heir to Castlevania.
Developed by ArtPlay, the project was supervised by Koji Igarashiemblematic figure of the genre. The result is a 2.5D game that focuses on exploration, skill progression and demanding combat, without falling into punishing difficulty.
The source sums up his position perfectly: “ It takes the codes of Castlevania while modernizing them successfully“. A balance which explains why the title has won over critics and players alike, several years after its initial release.
A limited time offer, as always on the EGS
As with all the games in this Christmas calendar, free play only lasts for a very specific time. The title is offered at no cost for a 24-hour window, before being replaced by the next gift.
The source clearly specifies the timetable:“It will be available from December 23 to 24, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. sharp”. A constraint which requires interested players to quickly connect to their Epic Games Store account to permanently add it to their library.
Once claimed, the game remains accessible without time limit, even after the end of the event. On the other hand, after the indicated time, it becomes chargeable again and gives way to a new title, still unknown at present.
Why this seventh free game marks a turning point
This choice is not insignificant in the Epic Games Store’s strategy. After alternating between independent productions and more visible titles, this selection is aimed directly at a specific audience: fans of demanding games, with sophisticated gameplay, and a substantial lifespan.
This seventh gift is also part of a gradual increase in power of the event. Traditionally, key days – notably Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – are associated with more significant offers. Offering a title of this quality at this stage therefore reinforces expectations for the future.
For players who have never taken the plunge, this is an ideal opportunity to discover a recognized metroidvania without taking the slightest financial risk. For others, it’s simply another addition to an already full library.