The Skautfold series has long been a cult favorite among fans of dark, atmospheric indies, but its latest entry—Skautfold: Moonless Knight—has finally made its grand debut on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Developed by Steve Gal (Pugware) and published by Red Art Games, this title marks a shift from the series’ earlier combat styles into a full-blown, exploration-heavy Metroidvania.
If you’re a fan of Bloodborne’s atmosphere, Sekiro’s precision, and Castlevania’s world design, this is a title you need on your radar.
The Story: Diplomacy Meets Eldritch Horror
Set in an alternate history version of 1900, Moonless Knight takes players to the “Dawn Empire of Japan.” You play as Gray, the Second Knight of the Angelic Empire of Britannia. What starts as a simple diplomatic mission quickly spirals into a nightmare as Lunatic cultists launch a religious coup against the Japanese Emperor.
Trapped within the sprawling Oda Imperial Palace, you must navigate shifting political factions and survive the eldritch horrors that have begun to seep into the world. While it is the fourth game in the series (following Shrouded in Sanity, Usurper, and Into the Fray), it stands perfectly well on its own, though returning fans will appreciate the deep lore and recurring characters.
Gameplay: A Tightly-Woven Metroidvania
Unlike many modern Metroidvanias that rely on massive, often empty maps, Moonless Knight features a deeply interconnected world. The Oda Imperial Palace is a masterclass in level design, filled with shortcuts, loops, and hidden secrets that reward players for their curiosity.
One of the game’s standout features is its semi-open progression. You aren’t forced down a linear path; you can choose which bosses to tackle first, finding relics and familiars that suit your specific playstyle. Whether you’re hunting for “ninja-like pugs” hidden in plain sight or trying to save dying soldiers with your limited resources, there is always something to discover.
Combat: High Risk, High Reward
The combat system in Moonless Knight has been completely overhauled for this entry. It centers around a punishingly fair Guard System:
- Precision Matters: Perfect blocks and well-timed dodges are the difference between life and death.
- The Guard Meter: Careless play doesn’t just lower your health; it damages your maximum guard capacity, making you more vulnerable the longer a fight goes on.
- Vitae Injections: The healing system allows you to recover health or even “overcharge” it, granting temporary damage buffs and the ability to tank hits that would otherwise be fatal.
Visuals and Xbox Performance
Visually, the game is a treat for fans of high-quality pixel art. It successfully blends Victorian Gothic aesthetics with traditional Japanese architecture, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and alien.
On Xbox Series X|S, the game is “Optimized,” supporting 4K Ultra HD and providing buttery-smooth performance. It also supports Smart Delivery, meaning that if you buy it once, you’ll get the best version for whichever console you’re playing on.
Final Verdict
At a base price of $14.99, Skautfold: Moonless Knight offers incredible value. It’s a challenging, atmospheric, and deeply rewarding experience that proves you don’t need a AAA budget to create a hauntingly beautiful world.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.