Moonlighter Studio Cancels ReVamp Public Playtest Over AI Fears

 

Digital Sun, the developer behind the Moonlighter series, has canceled plans for a large-scale public playtest of its upcoming game ReVamp over concerns that AI-powered tools could allow other developers to copy its gameplay before release.

The studio is instead limiting early testing to a smaller group of players through its Discord community, reducing the risk of unfinished gameplay systems being exposed to potential imitators.

Digital Sun marketing manager Israel Mallén explained that distributing an early build to tens of thousands of players would create a significant risk while the game is still months away from launch.

The decision follows growing concerns about AI-assisted game cloning, with developers reporting cases of similar games appearing on digital storefronts shortly after original concepts were revealed.

Digital Sun believes restricting access to ReVamp's early builds will help protect the game's mechanics and creative ideas while allowing the team to continue collecting feedback.

The change does not mean development has been canceled or that all testing has stopped.

According to the game's official Steam page, ReVamp is scheduled to launch on March 25, 2027.

The game combines tower defense, roguelite mechanics, and action gameplay, placing players in the role of Dracula as they defend a customizable castle against invading human forces.

Players can build defensive structures, command monsters, and personally participate in battles to protect their fortress.

The decision highlights how concerns about rapidly produced AI-generated copies are beginning to influence how independent studios reveal and test upcoming games.

For now, Digital Sun plans to continue development toward ReVamp's March release while taking a more cautious approach to public access.