Dark Scrolls Release Date 2026: Gameplay, Co-op, and Everything We Know
Written by Qamar Shahzad, a gaming journalist with 15+ years of industry experience. Published June 2026.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Game Name | Dark Scrolls |
| Developer | doinksoft |
| Publisher | Devolver Digital |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Indie, Roguelite, Platformer |
| Game Type | Side-Scrolling Action Platformer / Dungeon Crawler |
| Release Date | June 22, 2026 |
| Platforms | PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch |
| Players | Single-player, Local Co-op, Online Co-op |
| Playable Heroes | 9 Confirmed |
| Roguelite Progression | Confirmed |
| Procedural Dungeons | Confirmed |
| Price | Not Officially Confirmed |
Introduction
There is something special about a game that knows exactly what it wants to be. No bloated features, no unnecessary systems, just tight gameplay and a clear vision. Dark Scrolls from Doinksoft and Devolver Digital looks like one of those games.
If you have been following the indie scene, you already know Doinksoft. These are the folks behind Gato Roboto and Demon Throttle. They make games that feel like they crawled out of a 16-bit console and evolved into something sharper, more modern, and more addictive. Now they are back with a fantasy-themed action platformer that blends roguelite progression, side-scrolling combat, procedural dungeon runs, and cooperative multiplayer.
The game was originally scheduled for May 28, 2026. But as sometimes happens in development, the team needed a little more time. The new date is June 22, 2026. And honestly? After playing the preview build and seeing what they have built, that extra time looks like it was well spent.
Over the years covering indie releases, I have learned that Devolver Digital rarely misses. They have an eye for games that punch above their weight class. Dark Scrolls fits that pattern perfectly. Let us break down everything you need to know.
Why This Game Is Trending
Dark Scrolls generated immediate attention when Doinksoft and Devolver Digital dropped the announcement trailer in March 2026. The reaction was quick and positive. Here is why players are paying attention.
First, Doinksoft has built a reputation for quality. Gato Roboto was a compact Metroidvania that surprised everyone with its clever design. Demon Throttle showed they could handle action with personality. Players trust this developer to deliver something that feels polished and fun.
Second, Devolver Digital is the publisher. In the indie space, that name carries weight. They have published Hotline Miami, Cult of the Lamb, Inscryption, and Enter the Gungeon. When Devolver backs a game, the community pays attention. Their track record suggests they see something special in Dark Scrolls.
Third, the genre combination is appealing. Roguelite platformers with co-op support have a dedicated audience. Games like Rogue Legacy 2 and Spelunky 2 have proven that players love runs that feel different every time. Dark Scrolls adds a fantasy theme and a shmup-inspired combat system to the formula. That sounds fresh.
The delay from May 28 to June 22 also generated discussion. Some players were disappointed, but many appreciated the transparency. A short delay to polish a game is usually a good sign. It suggests the developers care about quality rather than rushing to meet a deadline.
Game Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Title | Dark Scrolls |
| Developer | doinksoft |
| Publisher | Devolver Digital |
| Series | Standalone IP |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Indie, Roguelite, Platformer |
| Game Type | Side-Scrolling Action Platformer, Roguelite, Dungeon Crawler, Co-op Adventure |
| Engine | Not Officially Confirmed |
| Official Page | Dark Scrolls Steam Page |
Doinksoft developed Dark Scrolls, and Devolver Digital handles publishing. This is a new IP, so players are not carrying expectations from previous entries. That gives the developers freedom to experiment with fresh ideas. Based on what we have seen, they are using that freedom well.
The game features nine playable heroes, each with unique abilities. That alone suggests variety in gameplay. Add local and online co-op, procedural dungeon runs, and roguelite progression, and you have a recipe for high replayability.
What We Know So Far
Confirmed Information
Everything is officially confirmed for Dark Scrolls heading into the June 22, 2026 launch:
- June 22, 2026 release date confirmed for PC and Nintendo Switch
- Developed by doinksoft, published by Devolver Digital
- Side-scrolling action platformer with roguelite progression
- Nine playable heroes with unique abilities
- Local and online co-op confirmed
- Procedurally generated dungeons
- Shmup-inspired combat with hack-and-slash elements
- Pixel-art fantasy visuals
- Boss encounters, traps, secrets, and side objectives
- Roguelite progression with unlockable skills
- Published by Devolver Digital
Rumors and Unconfirmed Details
The information landscape for Dark Scrolls is relatively clean. However, some questions remain unanswered:
- Future console ports: PlayStation and Xbox versions have not been announced. Given Devolver’s track record, ports are possible if the game performs well, but nothing is confirmed.
- Additional heroes post-launch: Nine heroes are confirmed at launch. Whether more arrive as DLC or free updates remains unknown.
- DLC content: No DLC has been announced. The game looks like a complete package at launch.
- Crossplay: Not confirmed. With multiplayer being a focus, crossplay would be a welcome addition, but we have no official word.
- Price: The game price has not been publicly confirmed. Check the Steam page for updates.
Rumor Reliability: Low. Most community discussion revolves around hopes rather than leaks.
Confirmed vs. Rumored Table
| Confirmed | Rumored |
|---|---|
| June 22, 2026, release date | Future console ports (PS5, Xbox) |
| PC and Nintendo Switch launch | Additional heroes post-launch |
| Nine playable heroes | DLC content |
| Local and online co-op | Crossplay support |
| Roguelite progression | Physical edition |
| Procedural dungeon runs | Seasonal content |
| Published by Devolver Digital | – |
| Developed by doinksoft | – |
Release Date and Timeline
Dark Scrolls has followed a clear path to its June 22, 2026 launch.
Key timeline:
- March 2026: Initial reveal with announcement trailer
- March 2026: Original release date of May 28, 2026, announced
- May 2026: Delay announced, moving release to June 22, 2026
- June 2026: Launch preparations underway with positive community reception
- June 22, 2026: Full game launches on PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch
The delay from May 28 to June 22 is worth discussing. A three-week delay is relatively short compared to industry standards. It suggests the developers found specific issues they wanted to address rather than needing a major overhaul. In my experience covering game launches, short delays like this often result in better day-one experiences. The team likely used the extra time to polish performance, refine co-op functionality, or address feedback from early testing.
No pre-order date has been announced. The game will launch as a paid premium release without early access or beta phases.
Platform Availability
Dark Scrolls launches on PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch.
| Platform | Status |
|---|---|
| PC (Steam) | Confirmed |
| Nintendo Switch | Confirmed |
| Epic Games Store | Not Confirmed |
| PlayStation | Not Announced |
| Xbox | Not Announced |
| Mobile | Not Confirmed |
| Cloud Gaming | Not Confirmed |
| Crossplay | Not Confirmed |
| Cross-Progression | Not Confirmed |
The Nintendo Switch announcement is significant. Roguelite platformers like Dead Cells and Rogue Legacy 2 have performed well on Switch. The portable format suits quick runs and repeated playthroughs. Players who enjoy gaming on the go will appreciate this option.
Steam is the PC destination. The Steam page is already live with screenshots and trailers. The controller support tag suggests the game will work well with gamepads, which is important for a side-scrolling action platformer.
Gameplay Deep Dive
Dark Scrolls places you in a fantasy world filled with danger, treasures, and monsters. You choose from nine playable heroes, each with distinct abilities, and venture through procedurally generated dungeons. The goal is to survive, defeat bosses, and progress through increasingly challenging runs.
What makes this game interesting is how it combines multiple genres. The side-scrolling platforming feels familiar, but the combat draws from shmup (shoot-em-up) inspiration. You are not just jumping and slashing. You are dodging projectiles, timing attacks, and managing positioning in ways that feel more dynamic than a standard action platformer.
Combat System
Combat in Dark Scrolls blends hack-and-slash action with projectile-based attacks. Heroes have different fighting styles. Quinn, the archer, uses ranged attacks. Confit, the chef hero, throws meat-based projectiles. There is even a saxophone-playing rat hero. Yes, you read that correctly. A rat. Playing a saxophone. In combat.
The variety in hero design suggests combat will feel different depending on who you choose. Some heroes may favor close-range brawling. Others may excel at kiting enemies from a distance. The shmup influence means you will also need to dodge bullet patterns and environmental hazards. This is not a game where you can stand still and attack mindlessly.
Movement and Platforming
Side-scrolling platforming is central to the experience. You run, jump, dodge, and navigate through levels filled with traps, secrets, and branching paths. Precision platforming appears to be a requirement. The trailers show characters leaping over spikes, avoiding crushing mechanisms, and timing jumps through hazardous sections.
Movement feels responsive based on the footage. The pixel-art animation gives each hero a distinct sense of weight and momentum. If you enjoy platformers that demand skill and timing, this will appeal to you.
Roguelite Progression
Roguelite progression means each run is different. Dungeons are procedurally generated, so layouts, enemy placements, and loot change every time you enter. You unlock skills and upgrades over time, making future runs slightly easier or more varied.
This system rewards repeated play. Each death sends you back to the start, but you keep some progress through unlockable abilities. The challenge lies in adapting to new layouts while building your character across runs. Fans of Dead Cells or Rogue Legacy 2 will recognize this loop.
Co-op Features
Local and online co-op are confirmed. You can team up with friends and tackle dungeons together. This changes the dynamic significantly. Coordinating attacks, sharing resources, and reviving downed allies adds a layer of strategy that single-player runs lack.
From what we have seen, co-op looks chaotic in the best way. Multiple heroes on screen, each with unique abilities, create opportunities for creative combos. One player might draw aggro while another attacks from range. Or both might charge in together and overwhelm enemies with sheer numbers.
Procedural Dungeons
Every run takes you through procedurally generated dungeons. This means no two runs are exactly the same. Room layouts, enemy types, trap placements, and loot drops vary each time. The unpredictability keeps runs fresh and encourages experimentation.
Boss encounters appear to be the highlight of each dungeon. The trailers show massive foes with distinct attack patterns. Defeating them requires learning their moves and finding windows to strike. Boss fights in roguelites often become the defining challenge, and Dark Scrolls seems to understand this.
Exploration
Exploration involves more than just moving forward. Dungeons contain branching paths, hidden rooms, secrets, and side objectives. Taking the time to explore may reward you with better loot, additional health, or shortcuts. The game encourages curiosity without punishing players who prefer a direct path.
Trap navigation adds another layer. Spikes, crushing ceilings, and environmental hazards require careful positioning. Rushing through carelessly can end a run quickly. Patience and observation are rewarded.
Story and Setting
Details about the story remain limited. We know Dark Scrolls is a fantasy adventure where players choose quirky heroes and venture through dangerous dungeons. The world appears to be classic fantasy with a whimsical twist.
The presence of a saxophone-playing rat hero suggests the tone is not overly serious. This is not a grimdark fantasy. It feels more like a playful take on dungeon crawling, similar to how Enter the Gungeon approached gun combat with humor.
The exact narrative structure is unclear. There may be a central conflict or overarching goal tying the runs together. Or the story might be minimal, allowing gameplay to take center stage. Either approach can work, depending on execution.
Comparison With Similar Games
| Feature | Dark Scrolls | Rogue Legacy 2 | Dead Cells | Spelunky 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genre | Roguelite Platformer | Roguelite Platformer | Roguelite Metroidvania | Roguelite Platformer |
| Perspective | Side-Scrolling | Side-Scrolling | Side-Scrolling | Side-Scrolling |
| Co-op | Local + Online | No | No | Local |
| Playable Characters | 9 Unique Heroes | Class-based | Single Character | Single Character |
| Procedural Generation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pixel Art | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fantasy Setting | Yes | Yes | Dark Fantasy | Fantasy/Adventure |
| Shmup Influence | Yes | No | No | No |
| Publisher | Devolver Digital | — | Motion Twin | — |
Versus Rogue Legacy 2
Rogue Legacy 2 is the gold standard for roguelite platformers. Dark Scrolls shares the progression loop and side-scrolling action but differentiates itself with co-op and shmup-inspired combat. The hero system in Dark Scrolls offers more variety than class-based upgrades. Players who enjoyed Rogue Legacy 2 may find Dark Scrolls familiar yet fresh.
Versus Dead Cells
Dead Cells emphasizes fast-paced combat and Metroidvania-style exploration. Dark Scrolls leans harder into platforming and co-op. The fantasy pixel art is similar, but Dark Scrolls feels lighter in tone. The shmup influence is unique, offering a combat style that Dead Cells does not explore.
Versus Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 is a brutal roguelite platformer with local co-op. Dark Scrolls offers online co-op, which Spelunky 2 lacks. The hero variety in Dark Scrolls also provides more gameplay diversity. However, Spelunky 2 has deeper environmental interactions and a more complex world. Both games reward mastery, but they approach it differently.
Community Reactions
Community response to Dark Scrolls has been positive since the announcement trailer dropped. The Doinksoft and Devolver Digital combination generated immediate trust. Players know these names deliver quality.
Reddit discussions highlight excitement about co-op. Local and online multiplayer is a major selling point. Many players are looking for games to play with friends, and Dark Scrolls fits that niche. The hero reveals have also generated buzz. Each new hero announcement sparks speculation about abilities and playstyles.
YouTube coverage has grown steadily. Trailers and gameplay showcases are performing well. Creators are focusing on the co-op gameplay, hero variety, and roguelite mechanics. The saxophone-playing rat hero has become a meme, which only helps visibility.
Twitter and X discussions are similarly positive. Players are sharing their favorite hero designs and speculating about which ones they will main. The delay from May 28 to June 22 was met with understanding. Most players appreciated the transparency and supported the developers taking extra time.
Discord engagement appears active. The community is discussing hero abilities, co-op strategies, and potential post-launch content. The overall sentiment is optimistic.
One thing I have noticed covering indie game communities over the years is that Devolver Digital games tend to foster positive, constructive communities. The publisher’s reputation attracts players who appreciate quality over hype. Dark Scrolls seems to be following that pattern.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Nine unique playable heroes with distinct abilities
- Local and online co-op for multiplayer fun
- Roguelite progression keeps runs fresh
- Procedurally generated dungeons for replayability
- Shmup-inspired combat adds variety
- Published by Devolver Digital, a trusted indie publisher
- Developed by doinksoft, known for quality action games
- Pixel-art visuals with 16-bit fantasy inspiration
- Available on PC and Nintendo Switch
- No microtransactions or live service elements announced
Cons
- No open world or exploration outside dungeons
- Limited story details available pre-launch
- Future console ports not confirmed
- Crossplay not confirmed
- Price not publicly confirmed before launch
- Potential for repetitive dungeon layouts over long play sessions
- Solo balance compared to co-op remains uncertain
Who Should Play This Game
Strong Fit For:
- Players who enjoy roguelite platformers like Rogue Legacy 2 and Dead Cells
- Gamers looking for a fun co-op game to play with friends locally or online
- Fans of Devolver Digital games who trust the publisher’s quality
- Players who appreciate pixel-art aesthetics and retro-inspired design
- Action platformer enthusiasts who enjoy tight combat and movement
- Anyone who wants a game with high replayability and challenge
Might Want to Skip or Wait If:
- You prefer open-world exploration over procedurally generated dungeons
- You need a deep narrative or story-driven experience
- You are looking for competitive multiplayer or PvP
- You want a game with extensive character customization
- You prefer realistic graphics over pixel art
- You are waiting for price confirmation before purchasing
System Requirements
Official system requirements for Dark Scrolls have not been published yet. However, based on the pixel-art visuals and doinksoft’s previous games, we can make reasonable estimates.
| Minimum (Estimate) | Recommended (Estimate) | |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core i3 | Intel Core i5 |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| GPU | Intel HD Graphics 4000 | NVIDIA GTX 660 or equivalent |
| Storage | 2-4 GB | 2-4 GB |
| Controller | Supported | Supported |
These estimates are based on similar pixel-art roguelite platformers. Dark Scrolls should run well on low-to-mid-range hardware. The Nintendo Switch version suggests the game is optimized for modest hardware, so PC performance should be smooth.
As always, wait for official system requirements before purchasing. The Steam page will likely update with final specs closer to launch.
Expert Predictions
Based on what we have seen, Dark Scrolls is positioned for a strong indie launch. Devolver Digital games rarely fail to find their audience, and Doinksoft has proven they understand action games.
The co-op feature is a major advantage. Many roguelite platformers are single-player only. Offering both local and online co-op sets Dark Scrolls apart from competitors. Players looking for shared experiences will gravitate toward it.
The nine heroes provide variety. Each hero offers a different playstyle, which encourages experimentation and replayability. If the heroes feel genuinely distinct, the game will have long-term appeal.
The main questions involve long-term content. Procedural generation helps with replayability, but the variety of dungeon layouts and enemy types will determine how long players stay engaged. Post-launch updates could address this, but nothing has been announced.
I expect positive reviews at launch. The development team has a good track record, and the publisher has strong quality control. The delay from May 28 to June 22 suggests the team is polishing the experience rather than rushing.
A console port to PlayStation and Xbox seems likely if the game performs well. Devolver Digital has a history of expanding platform availability for successful titles. But this is speculation, not confirmation.
Trailer and Media Analysis
The announcement trailer released in March 2026 gave players a clear look at what Dark Scrolls offers. It showcased hero selection, boss fights, platforming challenges, and co-op gameplay.
The pixel-art visuals are vibrant and detailed. The fantasy world feels colorful rather than gritty. The 16-bit aesthetic works well for the genre, capturing the feel of classic games while adding modern polish.
Key trailer moments include boss encounters. The bosses look challenging, with distinct attack patterns and phases. Traps and environmental hazards are also prominent, suggesting platforming skill is essential.
Co-op gameplay appears chaotic and fun. Multiple heroes on screen, each with unique abilities, create visual variety. The trailer suggests teamwork is encouraged but not required.
Screenshots on Steam provide additional detail. Character designs are whimsical and memorable. The saxophone-playing rat hero stands out as a highlight. Environments range from dark dungeons to brighter fantasy settings.
Overall, the media conveys a game that knows what it is and does it well. No unnecessary features. Just tight action, co-op fun, and roguelite replayability.
FAQ
When does Dark Scrolls release?
Dark Scrolls releases on June 22, 2026. The game was originally scheduled for May 28, 2026, but the release date was delayed to June 22.
Is Dark Scrolls coming to Nintendo Switch?
Yes. Dark Scrolls launches on Nintendo Switch alongside PC on June 22, 2026.
Will Dark Scrolls be available on Steam?
Yes. Dark Scrolls is launching on PC via Steam. The Steam page is already live with trailers, screenshots, and store details.
Does Dark Scrolls support online co-op?
Yes. Dark Scrolls features both local and online co-op multiplayer. You can team up with friends and tackle dungeons together.
How many playable characters are in Dark Scrolls?
Dark Scrolls features nine playable heroes at launch. Each hero has unique abilities and playstyles. Confirmed heroes include Quinn the archer, Confit the chef hero, and a saxophone-playing rat hero.
Is Dark Scrolls a roguelite?
Yes. Dark Scrolls features roguelite progression with procedural dungeon runs, unlockable skills, and runs that change each time you play.
Does Dark Scrolls have local multiplayer?
Yes. Local co-op is confirmed alongside online co-op. You can play with friends on the same system.
Is Dark Scrolls an open world?
No. Dark Scrolls is a side-scrolling action platformer with procedurally generated dungeons. It does not feature an open world.
What platforms is Dark Scrolls on?
Dark Scrolls launches on PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch. PlayStation, Xbox, and other platforms are not confirmed.
Is Dark Scrolls coming to PlayStation or Xbox?
No announcements have been made regarding PlayStation or Xbox versions. The game currently launches only on PC and Nintendo Switch.
Final Verdict
Dark Scrolls looks like exactly the kind of game that Devolver Digital has built its reputation on. Tight gameplay, clear vision, and a focus on fun over unnecessary complexity. Doinksoft has delivered quality action games before, and this appears to continue that tradition.
The combination of roguelite progression, co-op multiplayer, and nine unique heroes gives the game strong replayability potential. The shmup-inspired combat adds something fresh to the platformer genre. And the pixel-art visuals capture the 16-bit fantasy aesthetic perfectly.
The delay from May 28 to June 22 is a minor concern, but short delays usually mean polish, not problems. The transparency around the delay suggests the developers respect their audience.
For players who enjoy roguelite platformers, co-op games, or anything Devolver Digital publishes, Dark Scrolls is worth watching. The June 22 launch date is approaching, and the early reception suggests this could be one of the indie highlights of 2026.
Check the Steam page for updates. Try the trailer if you have not seen it. And if you are looking for a game to play with friends, this one deserves your attention.