United Label, the division of CI Games that focuses on indie video games, has announced the release date for "Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter" during Microsoft’s official Gamescom broadcast. The game is set to launch in February 2025 on multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch.

The upcoming release, developed by Odd Bug Studio, is a sequel that builds upon the medieval rodent adventure of the original "Tails of Iron." In "Whiskers of Winter," players will take on the role of Arlo, the son of the Warden of the North, as he embarks on an epic journey across harsh northern lands to defeat an ancient evil threatening the region. The game’s narrative is set after the events of the first installment, which featured a southern war between rats and frogs. The sequel introduces new elements, including monster-hunting mechanics that challenge players to battle enormous beasts in the North. Additionally, it enhances the franchise’s critically acclaimed combat system with new gameplay features, providing a deeper and more strategic experience.

The series will also see the return of Doug Cockle, a multi-award-winning voice actor known for his roles in "The Witcher 3," "Baldur’s Gate 3," and "Alan Wake 2." Cockle will once again narrate the game, bringing his distinctive and gruff voice to the character of Arlo as he seeks revenge.

A demo of "Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter" is currently available to play at Gamescom at the Indie Arena Booth in Hall 10.2. This preview allows attendees to experience some of the game’s challenging battles ahead of its official release next year.

The game promises an expanded campaign, following Arlo’s quest against the Dark Wing Bats in a semi-open RPG world that includes six varied biomes and new animal factions. Players can expect to encounter challenging combat that builds on the series’ established mechanics. The sequel introduces enhanced weapons gameplay, featuring elemental effects like fire, ice, electricity, and poison, allowing players to customize Arlo’s arsenal for unique combat strategies. The game also adds new monster-hunting gameplay, enabling players to track and defeat 15 giant beasts to gather rare materials for upgrades.

Additionally, "Whiskers of Winter" offers an improved base-building feature where players can rebuild and enhance the settlement of Winter’s Edge. Upgrading the base unlocks access to more powerful items, better meals, and a wider range of traps, enhancing the game’s strategic depth. The introduction of a new day and night system will also influence gameplay, with different enemies appearing depending on the time of day, adding another layer of challenge and immersion.

With its combination of an expanded campaign, challenging combat, and new gameplay mechanics, "Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter" aims to deliver an engaging experience for both returning fans and newcomers. The game is scheduled for release in February 2025, offering a fresh adventure in the beloved franchise.