After nearly ten years in development, Lost Souls Aside will finally release on May 30, 2025. First revealed in 2016 and originally developed by a single individual, Yang Bing, the game has evolved into a full-scale AAA action RPG under the banner of UltiZero Games. Initially created with Unreal Engine 4 and later backed by Sony’s China Hero Project, the project grew from an ambitious indie experiment into one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Gameplay: Fast-Paced Combat and Dimensional Variety

Lost Souls Aside draws heavy inspiration from Devil May Cry and Final Fantasy XV, featuring a fluid combat system with dodge mechanics, parries, quick weapon switching, and real-time combo execution. The game features a style meter and lets players switch between multiple weapons with distinct playstyles mid-combo to maximize creativity in battle.

A key feature is the companion Arena, a floating dragon that acts as both a weapon system and a traversal tool. Arena transforms into wings, hoverboards, and platforms, allowing scripted mobility moments that bring cinematic flair to exploration. Although early trailers hinted at open-world exploration, the game now leans more toward linear level design—a choice that supports the focused, action-driven gameplay.

Set across multiple dimensions, Lost Souls Aside includes modern cities, snowy mountain ranges, ancient ruins, and fantasy settings. Each level reflects the game’s dimensional-hopping structure, with visual diversity providing constant shifts in tone and atmosphere.

Story: Saving Souls and Worlds

The story follows Kaiser, the protagonist, on a mission to rescue his sister’s soul. The narrative stretches across worlds and dimensions, with enemies known as Void Drax threatening not only Kaiser’s world but the souls of many others. The main antagonist appears to be a massive dragon linked to these invaders. While Arena aids Kaiser throughout the game, there are hints that Arena’s origin may tie into this dragon as well—raising questions about friend and foe dynamics.

The game also introduces RPG elements, including experience levels, ability systems, finishers, usable items, and equipment accessories. A level indicator above enemies confirms the presence of progression systems, though the core focus remains on action.

Behind the Scenes: From Indie Project to Sony-Backed AAA

In an interview with 36KR, creator Yang Bing shared his development journey. Starting solo in 2015, he created the initial assets that would go viral upon the 2016 trailer debut. That momentum brought new collaborators and eventually Sony’s attention. Despite setbacks and periods of low morale, UltiZero Games continued refining the game, with most full production beginning only in 2021.

Much of the early development focused on improving technical skills, building the team, and optimizing existing systems. Originally targeted for PS4, all assets were later upgraded for PS5. Although a shift to Unreal Engine 5 was considered, the team chose to remain on the latest version of UE4 for stability. Visual effects, animation quality, and enemy behavior have all undergone significant upgrades, with ongoing polishing continuing right up to launch.

Sony’s China Hero Project has played a key role in this transformation, funding the title and enabling it to reach AAA production standards. The game will launch on both PlayStation and PC, with physical releases confirmed for the US and UK.

Editions, Bonuses, and What to Expect

Pre-order bonuses for Lost Souls Aside include in-game currency (500 Divinities Gold), ten high potions, and a Kaiser skin based on the 2016 trailer design. The digital deluxe edition adds even more: a gold skin for Arena, sword cosmetics, XP and health booster items, and additional equippable accessories.

Cosmetics seem to be a broader feature, not limited to pre-orders, and it’s likely players will unlock more throughout gameplay.