Fans of anime fighting games will have another competitive title to keep an eye on in 2027. Netcode Warriors is officially coming to PlayStation 5, expanding its previously announced PC availability. Alongside this confirmation, Son Studios has introduced two additional fighters through dedicated gameplay trailers.
However, the independent project stands out for more than its anime-inspired presentation. Its developers aim to combine the freedom of arena combat with the strategic depth associated with traditional fighting games.
Netcode Warriors brings competitive arena combat to PS5
First introduced in February 2024, Netcode Warriors is being developed and published independently by Son Studios. Its arrival on the PlayStation Store marks another step forward for the project.
According to its listing on Sony’s digital storefront, the PS5 version is scheduled for release in 2027. Meanwhile, the Steam page continues to display a coming soon message without specifying a launch window.
The PlayStation 5 edition will also include the following features:
- Support for one or two local players.
- Support for up to eight online players.
- PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer.
- Optional in-game purchases.
Consoles remain an interesting environment for competitive fighting games. In fact, Katsuhiro Harada’s thoughts on console development recently highlighted some of their technical challenges.
Two new fighters expand the character roster
Son Studios has spent the weekend sharing more information about its upcoming fighting game. After releasing a general overview on November 14, 2026, the developers presented two additional characters on November 15.
The latest additions to the roster are Emilie ~ Datakarys and Anuarite ~ Bajilink. Both fighters received individual gameplay trailers, offering a closer look at the project’s combat system.
In particular, Son Studios describes Bajilink as a rushdown fighter in its official Bajilink gameplay trailer.
This fighting archetype revolves around maintaining offensive pressure and limiting an opponent’s opportunities to respond. Consequently, Bajilink could appeal to players who prefer aggressive strategies over a more defensive approach.
Netcode Warriors combines 3D movement with traditional fighting mechanics
Rather than abandoning conventional fighting game mechanics, Son Studios wants to incorporate them into a fully three-dimensional environment. Battles take place through one-on-one encounters where positioning plays an important role.
Players must consider spacing, execution, strategic decisions and their opponent’s intentions. Moreover, the combat system features combos, mixups and defensive options, while each character offers different abilities and fighting styles.
This combination could make learning individual matchups particularly interesting. Moving freely around an arena adds another consideration when deciding whether to attack, retreat or maintain pressure.
Meanwhile, established anime fighters continue to evolve, as demonstrated by the upcoming Dragon Ball FighterZ balance update.
Online and offline modes offer different ways to compete
Competitive multiplayer represents an important part of the experience. Son Studios is implementing rollback netcode with the intention of supporting competitive online matches.
Nevertheless, players will not need to participate in ranked battles to explore its combat mechanics. The project also includes several alternatives for practicing techniques, challenging friends or playing alone.
The confirmed game modes and multiplayer options include:
- Ranked matches: Online battles focused on competitive play.
- Casual matches: Encounters against players from around the world.
- Custom lobbies: Online rooms featuring a spectator mode.
- Training mode: A dedicated space to practice fighting mechanics.
- Arcade ladder: A traditional series of fighting challenges.
- Local split screen: An alternative for playing together locally.
- Local tournament mode: Competitive gatherings without relying on online matchmaking.
- Survival mode: An additional challenge centered on staying in the fight.
- Combo challenges: Exercises focused on attack combinations and execution.
Beyond its competitive features, Netcode Warriors also introduces a narrative premise. Its characters discover an unfamiliar world with the potential to transform their lives. However, they are not alone and must fight to survive and fulfill their dreams.
Ultimately, Netcode Warriors could offer an interesting alternative for fans seeking greater mechanical depth from anime arena fighters. For now, PlayStation players have a 2027 release window, while PC users await further details.
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