Gaming1 MIN

Rockbeasts has a Steam demo now, ahead of its January 2027 launch

The music-management RPG’s first two episodes are playable. Matthew Mercer and Sam Riegel join the cast, with a third demo episode planned for Steam Next Fest.

Animal band on stage beside Rockbeasts concert controls
Image: Lichthund / Critical Role · material oficial

Rockbeasts is targeting January 2027, and its first two episodes are already playable through a free Steam demo. Developer Lichthund says a third episode will join the demo on October 19 for Steam Next Fest.

Its Steam announcement identifies Matthew Mercer as manager Michael and Sam Riegel as guitarist Carlton Kowalsky.

The game puts players in charge of a grunge band in an alternate 1990s America populated by animals. The job involves booking shows, managing relationships and navigating the music business, rather than simply performing songs.

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Managing the people behind the music

Resources, performances and conversations shape the band’s path. Players arrange gigs while dealing with industry characters and band members whose priorities can pull in different directions.

Conversation with a pink-haired character in Rockbeasts
Image: Lichthund / Critical Role · material oficial
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Critical Role joins the creative and publishing team

Lichthund’s PlayStation Blog announcement describes Critical Role’s involvement in both creative work and publishing.

The demo lists English voice acting and includes Spanish interface and subtitle support. Its two available episodes offer a way to try the dialogue and management systems before buying. For other story-focused trials, our LudoNarraCon guide covers a separate demo event.

No exact January release day has been announced. PlayStation Blog confirms PS5, while the current Steam demo is for PC. October 19 expands the demo, rather than launching the full game.

Illuminated Rose Night Club facade in Rockbeasts
Image: Lichthund / Critical Role · material oficial
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