Should action games let us skip the action?
A 2026 action RPG plans to add an easier difficulty level allowing players to skip combat entirely, focusing on story progression.
The Blood of Dawnwalker, an upcoming action RPG, will introduce a new Story mode designed for players who prefer to avoid combat. This mode, described as even easier than the existing Story mode, aims to let players experience the narrative without gameplay challenges. Developer Rebel Wolves confirmed the addition in an interview, framing it as a response to player demand for more accessible difficulty options. The patch introducing this feature is scheduled for early October.
The proposed Story mode would allow players to bypass combat encounters entirely, a rare feature in action-oriented games. Most titles either adjust difficulty or provide accessibility options like invincibility modes, but few offer a true combat skip. Recent examples include South of Midnight, which includes a combat skip toggle, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which offers an invincibility mode as an accessibility option. These alternatives highlight a growing trend toward accommodating different player preferences.
Critics note that The Blood of Dawnwalker’s default difficulty, labeled Fair, is already relatively easy compared to modern blockbuster RPGs. The developer’s decision to introduce an even simpler mode suggests a recognition of diverse player skill levels. The new Story mode could appeal to casual players or those seeking a narrative-focused experience without the pressure of combat mechanics.
The announcement follows broader discussions about accessibility in gaming, with developers increasingly prioritizing options that broaden appeal. While combat skip features remain uncommon, their inclusion in narrative-heavy games like The Blood of Dawnwalker may set a precedent. The upcoming patch and potential New Game Plus mode will provide further insight into the game’s design philosophy and player flexibility.