Introduction

Lords of the Fallen 2, developed by CI Games, is the sequel to the 2023 release Lords of the Fallen, which itself was a reboot of the original 2014 game. The launch of the reboot, which faced various bugs and balance issues, received a series of post-launch fixes in the months that followed, with updates improving the game through December 2025. Recently, CI Games has drawn attention with the reveal of artwork for female armor sets, which has sparked some controversy.

Development and reveal

Lords of the Fallen 2 was unveiled during GamesCom in 2025 and is scheduled for release in the second half of 2026. CI Games has put significant effort into developing this follow-up, with a focus on improving gameplay and addressing the issues seen in the reboot. Marek Tyminski, CEO of CI Games, has not only played a leading role in development, but has also stood out for his comments on political correctness and his criticism of former employees on social media, casting a controversial light on the company.

Female armor sets

CI Games recently published artwork showing the female armor sets in Lords of the Fallen 2. This has prompted mixed reactions within the gaming community. The designs were promoted in collaboration with a YouTube channel that argues this aesthetic is appealing. Some players, however, have criticized the designs, saying they are impractical and lean too heavily into fan service. The official Lords of the Fallen account has posted images of these armor sets, emphasizing the importance of designing with the fanbase in mind. Marketing strategies like this raise questions about how far developers should go in involving the player community in aesthetic choices.

Future of the franchise

With Lords of the Fallen 2 still in development, there is room for further refinement and community feedback. The game is expected to feature more than 100 armor sets, along with extensive customization options. It is still unclear whether CI Games will adjust its strategy around the controversy surrounding the female armor sets before launch, but the coming months will be crucial. With a planned 2026 release, CI Games will need to carefully balance delivering polished gameplay with responding to reactions to its design choices.

The future of the franchise looks promising, although the challenges CI Games currently faces, including controversy and the need for a coherent creative vision, may affect the game's success in the competitive soulslike market. The game could become especially important in defining the direction of the series and cementing its place in the gaming community.