A new teaser for the fantasy action RPG Alkahest has reignited conversations about what constitutes real gameplay footage. Developed by Push On, the game made an impression last year with a dramatic trailer that combined in-game assets with heavily staged animations. This approach stirred skepticism, particularly when the studio acknowledged the trailer’s cinematic enhancements were intentional, crafted to elevate its visual appeal.
Now, with a fresh teaser showcasing supposed gameplay, the community finds itself once again analyzing every frame—questioning its authenticity and pondering whether this RPG is truly delivering what it promises.
A Closer Look at the Latest Teaser Sequence
The new clip, lasting just over forty seconds, delivers a burst of high-energy action. The protagonist charges toward a cliffside fortress, uses a shield to deflect incoming arrows, and launches himself skyward via a collapsing cart. While airborne, he grabs a flying barrel and hurls it at an enemy mid-flight, immediately transitioning into a fluid melee encounter with a pair of goblins.
The seamless transitions and striking animations appear polished—perhaps too polished, which has triggered debates online. One viewer suggested that while it may be rendered using the game engine, the sequence seemed preprogrammed, stating that it didn’t look like it was performed live with a controller. However, another comment countered this by highlighting minor animation slips and transitions that usually appear in genuine gameplay.
Gameplay or Rendered Scene? The Debate Intensifies
Repeated viewings reveal a trailer that toes the line between cinematic and interactive. The barrel catch in midair and slow-motion swordplay seem almost choreographed. Yet, the way the player character moves through enemies, slices with a blade, and launches multiple kicks feels reactive and unscripted. The shield absorbing arrows and deforming upon impact adds to the immersion and realism.
Although opinions remain divided, certain signs—such as subtle animation transitions and combat pacing—suggest that the trailer might genuinely depict gameplay or a tightly scripted vertical slice of it.
Tactical Abilities and Dynamic Combat
Beyond animation debates, the trailer hints at intriguing gameplay systems. The protagonist appears to work in tandem with an unseen ally—likely an archer who can rain arrows on enemies from a distance upon command. This kind of cooperative AI could add strategic layers to encounters.
The physicality of combat is another highlight. The way shields react to attacks, goblins stagger from kicks, and characters move through space implies a game deeply invested in moment-to-moment interaction. Viewers hope that these elements remain intact in the final version, especially the kick mechanic, which could add a satisfying physicality reminiscent of Dark Messiah: Might and Magic.
Alkahest’s Development and Publishing Future
Concerns that Alkahest may follow the path of previous over-promised games seem less justified now. With HypeTrain Digital stepping in as the game’s publisher—a company known for titles like Voidtrain, Breathedge, and the upcoming Pathologic 3—development appears to be on firmer ground.
Beyond combat, the game will include an alchemy system, according to its Steam page. This feature will allow players to craft magical potions and possibly items that influence the environment, such as slick substances that could send enemies tumbling. It’s a nod to classic gameplay mechanics while pushing toward modern versatility.
Waiting for the Final Verdict
Although a release date has yet to be announced, anticipation for Alkahest continues to grow. Whether the teaser is a slice of real gameplay or a polished glimpse of what’s to come, the footage showcases ambition. If Push On can deliver on this vision, fans of visceral, physics-based combat may finally get the spiritual successor they’ve been waiting for.