The arrival of Never Grave: The Witch and the Curse on the video game horizon has been marked by controversy, especially due to accusations that it is a copy of Hollow Knight. This new title, developed by a subsidiary of Pocketpair, has been criticized in a context where Palworld also faces plagiarism suspicions. However, many players have discovered that, despite its aesthetic similarities, the gameplay experience is completely different, as evidenced by the recently presented demo.
They can’t shake off the allegations
The game is scheduled to be released on March 5, 2026, for both PC and consoles. Never Grave combines elements of roguelike and metroidvania through an original creature possession system that plays a crucial role in combat and puzzle-solving. Additionally, the title includes persistent progression that will allow players to customize their “builds,” as well as a cooperative mode that supports up to four players. The inclusion of a village that users will need to build, using materials obtained during their ‘runs,’ is also noteworthy.
The development of the game has been extensive, starting in January 2024 and experiencing several delays before finally announcing its full release. Initially, an early access was being considered, but the decision to focus their efforts on a version 1.0 seems to have met the expectations of the players, who have been waiting since its first showcase.
Despite the initial criticism, many defend the uniqueness of Never Grave, which, although it is evident that it draws inspiration from other indie titles, brings a mix of ideas that give it its own identity. With its release on the horizon, this work seems ready to surprise both its player base and those who were skeptical about its originality.
