Warlock: Dungeons and Dragons Confirms Gameplay Reveal Date and Teases Iconic Spells

First Gameplay Revealed at Gamescom

The first gameplay footage from the upcoming action-adventure game Warlock: Dungeons & Dragons premiered during Gamescom's Opening Night Live, according to multiple reports. Developed by Montreal's Invoke Studios and published by Wizards of the Coast, the game is described as an original third-person, single-player action-adventure experience set in a dark fantasy open world inspired by Dungeons & Dragons lore. The project is slated for a 2027 release.

VICE noted that the gameplay reveal showcased the game's magic system in action, including how protagonist Kaatri uses recognizable and powerful spells from the tabletop game to overcome enemies and solve puzzles. The outlet described a core promise: "magic allows players to read, reshape and ultimately master the world around them." According to VICE, Kaatri can turn the environment, enemy positioning, and even the weather into tactical opportunities, chaining spells together and capitalizing on her skill as a seasoned weapons master.

Cast and Characters

Variety reported that Tricia Helfer voices Kaatri, a veteran warrior who makes a pact to wield otherworldly magic against dark powers. Maggie Robertson, known for her role in Baldur's Gate 3, plays Tasha, the witch queen who acts as Kaatri's patron and source of power. VICE added that Tasha teaches Kaatri to sense Raw Magic—power hidden throughout Darkon—that lets her expand and transform her magical ability.

Both actors auditioned for their roles, Variety reported. In quotes to the outlet, Robertson said the game's focus on one character's story sets it apart: "We're diving into one character's backstory, emotions, and motivations instead of off-the'll pull players in many directions. It's about one relationship with a lot of emotional depth." Helfer added that while the game is focused on Kaatri and her quest, a "wonderful team" joins her along the way, and players will encounter iconic D&D spells, characters, and locations.

Gameplay and Spell Details

MobileSyrup reported that Warlock is not a choice-driven RPG like Baldur's Gate 3, but focuses on magic-heavy third-person combat and exploration. The outlet's report on the demo showed Kaatri using telekinesis to throw a body and set objects on fire, then conjuring water from a pond to extinguish flames, as well as using magic for platforming and electrifying metal poles to chain attacks between enemies. Invoke Studios developers Dominic Guay and Jeff Hattem told MobileSyrup that spells are designed to be used in various ways—most spells two or three times for different situations—and that the game is approachable for anyone, regardless of D&D experience.

MobileSyrup also reported that the open world is won't be a massive map but instead focuses on density and detail, aiming for more dynamic behavior from the environment.

The game is designed to be accessible to both newcomers and longtime fans, as noted by Invoke and the voiced cast, with Helfer mentioning the balance between accessibility and preserving the fun parts of D&D.

Release and Platforms

The game is set to launch in 2027 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, according to MobileSyrup. VICE confirmed the 2027 window and noted that no specific release date was given during the reveal. Tricia Helfer had previously mentioned a gameplay reveal at Gamescom on August 25, coinciding with the event.

Iconic Spells and Social Media Teases

Prior to the big reveal, the official Warlock social media feed posted short Instagram videos teasing several iconic D&D spells, as VICE reported. The spells include Eldritch Blast, described by the outlet as a accurate long-range beam of force; Fey Switch, which swaps Kaatri's position with a nearby enemy; Witch Bolt, which deals lightning damage and stuns; and Gust of Wind, which pushes back enemies or objects. VICE noted that the exact implementation of magic mechanics—and how Cantrips differ from advanced spells—had not yet been clarified.

Perspectives

Invoke Studios and Wizards of the Coast - The developers emphasize a systemic magic system across both combat and exploration, with an open world designed to reward creative problem-solving. They stress that the game is a story about one character and the relationship between Kaatri and Tasha, with an effort to make D&D approachable to players who may never have experienced tabletop RPGs.

Voice Cast and Actors - The stars note that the game focuses on one protagonist's journey instead of a wide range of player choice, providing an emotional storyline. They highlight that the title retains iconic D&D elements while presenting a more guided, narrative-driven experience.