Crystal Dynamics has announced Legacy of Kain: Ascendance, the first new entry in the Legacy of Kain franchise in 23 years, alongside a remaster of Legacy of Kain: Defiance. Both projects were confirmed as part of a wider push to revive the long-dormant dark-fantasy series for a modern audience.

The Legacy of Kain saga began with Blood Omen in 1996 and was defined by its late-1990s and early-2000s run — most notably Soul Reaver (1999), Soul Reaver 2 (2001), Blood Omen 2 and Defiance (2003). A wave of renewed interest followed the 2024 remasters of Soul Reaver 1 and 2, which helped bring the franchise back into the spotlight and set the stage for further releases.

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Ascendance represents the franchise's first wholly new title since 2003, a milestone likely to excite long-term fans and a new generation of players alike. The companion announcement of a Defiance remaster extends the remaster programme that began with the earlier Soul Reaver releases.

Crystal Dynamics has provided release-date information that places the new and remastered entries in March, signalling a concentrated rollout for the revived franchise. Specific platform and pricing details are expected to be disclosed by the developer as launch approaches.

The announcements mark a significant moment for a franchise that has maintained cult status for decades, blending noir storytelling, complex characters and atmospheric worldbuilding. The return of Legacy of Kain to active development closes a long hiatus and positions the series for renewed cultural relevance.

Further coverage and the original report are available at Eurogamer: Crystal Dynamics announces Ascendance and Defiance remaster.