With fewer than eight weeks until launch, Dying Light: The Beast emerges as a significant pivot for Techland. Initially conceived as a DLC expansion for Dying Light 2: Stay Human, the project has transformed into a full standalone release. Franchise Director Tymon Smektala revealed in a Wccftech interview that a 2023 story leak and fan demand to revive the original protagonist catalyzed this shift. Smektala also emphasized Techland’s goal to streamline production, noting this title took roughly half the development time of prior series entries.

Release Date, Platforms, Pricing, Editions

Mark your calendars for Friday, August 22, 2025: Dying Light: The Beast arrives on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X. A legacy console release for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One follows later next year. While Switch 2 compatibility remains unconfirmed, Smektala expressed interest in future platform support.

Two editions are available for pre-order:

• Standard Edition ($59.99)
• Deluxe Edition ($69.99), featuring:
  • Exclusive digital soundtrack
  • Art pack for desktop/mobile
  • Explorer’s map of Castor Woods
  • Survival gear bundle and outfit
  • Tactical SMG and Roadhog weapon skins

All pre-orders unlock bonus content:

• Legacy Survivor Armor Set
• Harran Blade (with upgrade blueprint)
• Modified Compound Crossbow
• Memorial Handgun (Jade tribute)
• Early access to Castor Woods Patrol mode

Owners of Dying Light 2: Stay Human Ultimate Edition receive this title free via legacy entitlement.

Genre, Setting, and Story Premise

This survival horror action title returns to first-person chaos in Castor Woods—a once-idyllic rural zone turned post-apocalyptic nightmare. Protagonist Kyle Crane (voiced by Roger Craig Smith) reemerges after 13 years of viral experimentation under Marius “The Baron” Fischer. The narrative draws inspiration from revenge thrillers like Oldboy, with Crane’s quest for retribution bridging timelines between Dying Light 2 and earlier series events.

Gameplay

Techland resurrects the series’ brutal survival roots with overhauled safe zones requiring dynamic fortification. Crane’s mutagenic enhancements enable visceral combat: dismembering foes with bare hands, wielding firearms from the outset, and navigating rural terrain via parkour and off-road vehicles. The day/night cycle maintains tension, while 4-player co-op with shared progression encourages group survival strategies.

Tech and Specs

Powered by Techland’s upgraded C-Engine, the game showcases advanced weather systems and material rendering. While current-gen consoles lead the launch, legacy platform support suggests modest PC requirements. Full specifications will be disclosed closer to release.