Counterplay’s Armatus: PS5 scythe-and-gun action this winter

Counterplay Games announced Armatus, a fast-paced action shooter for PlayStation 5 that combines scythe-and-gun combat with roguelike-style runs. The studio lists the game for release on PS5 in a winter window.

The PlayStation Store description reads: “Knowledge is a weapon, and death is never the end. Each run, wield your scythe and a gun of your choosing against brutal demons hellbent on your destruction.” The listing adds that players begin runs “heavily armed and powerful” and will gain new powers over time.

The store text emphasizes fast, close-quarters action and chaotic encounters framed as loop-based runs with persistent advancement. The description indicates players will start each run with strong equipment and expand their abilities during play rather than relying on long grind cycles to become effective.

Early commentary compares the game’s pacing and loop structure to titles such as Returnal and Saros, while noting the PlayStation Store text does not highlight dense bullet-hell enemy patterns.

Counterplay developed Godfall, a PlayStation 5 launch title released in 2020. Armatus is the studio’s next major project for the console and will be distributed through the PlayStation Store. No exact release date, retail price or plans for other platforms have been announced; the winter window could place the release late in the year or in early next year depending on regional calendars.

Counterplay has not provided details about game modes, multiplayer options or post-launch support. The studio has not specified when it will release further information ahead of the winter launch.