'Redfall' release date: Arkane's Xbox console-exclusive vampire shooter is rumored to launch in March

Xbox users have yet to get their hands on a new first-party game as a product of Microsoft's $7.5 billion acquisition of ZeniMax (Bethesda's parent company). That might end in a few months, though, as Arkane Austin's vampire-themed shooter game "Redfall" is reportedly launching in early 2023.

"Redfall" was one of the first games published by Bethesda Softworks announced to only launch on Xbox Series X/S and PC. It was initially planned to launch this year, but the developer announced last May that the game has been delayed to 2023.

"The teams at Arkane Austine ('Redfall) and Bethesda Game Studios ('Starfield') have incredible ambitions for their games, and we want to ensure that you receive the best, most polished versions of them," the publisher said in a Twitter announcement.

Arkane and Bethesda have yet to announce a specific release date for "Redfall." But well-known leaker Okami Games has claimed the game is set to launch "at the end of March" next year, which would make it the first Xbox console-exclusive title from Bethesda.

The same leak claimed that the developer plans on including an early access offer to fans who will pre-order the game or buy its Deluxe Edition. It should be noted, though, that Arkane has yet to announce pre-order editions of "Redfall" likely because of its delayed launch. But if the game is launching in March, the developer could announce pre-order details in the near future.

"Redfall" is an all-new IP from Arkane and Bethesda that will feature an open world and first-person shooter gameplay. The game's plot is set in the fictional island town of Redfall, Massachusetts, where a failed scientific experiment led to the rise of vampires. Players will choose among four of the characters survivors trapped on the island, namely the cryptozoologist Devinder Crousley, Layla Ellison with telekinetic abilities, combat engineer Remi de la Rosa, and the sharpshooter Jacob Boyer with supernatural abilities.

Arkane said "Redfall" players will be able to "seamlessly" play the game's single-player campaign and multiplayer gameplay. The vampire shooter will be available on Xbox and PC Game Pass at launch.