RIFTSTORM, a new co-op PvE action game from Confiction Labs, will launch in Early Access on August 11, 2026, bringing a fresh approach to the extraction shooter genre with a stronger focus on teamwork, progression, and accessible risk-based gameplay.
Set within the Mythic Protocol universe, the game places players in the role of elite operatives known as Weavers, who enter dangerous rift-exposed environments to battle supernatural threats, collect valuable resources, and decide when to escape before missions become too dangerous.
RIFTSTORM Brings a Co-Op Focus to the Extraction Genre
Developed over five years, RIFTSTORM is designed around cooperative PvE combat rather than traditional player-versus-player extraction mechanics. Players will form squads, customize their equipment, fight Mythic threats, and attempt to successfully extract with the resources they discover during missions.
The Early Access release will include five playable Weavers:
- Rook
- Starling
- Hertz
- Botsy
- Caracal
Players will begin their journey with an arsenal of approximately 30 weapons, dozens of in-mission Lythogram power-ups, the first version of the Periapt progression system, and the opening missions of the PADDOCK Contingency storyline.
A Different Approach to Extraction Gameplay
Extraction-Lite Design Reduces High-Risk Penalties
Confiction Labs describes RIFTSTORM’s gameplay approach as an “extraction-lite” experience. Unlike many extraction games where losing a mission can result in the complete loss of equipment and progress, RIFTSTORM allows players to leave missions with the weapons and resources they successfully collect.
Failed missions still have consequences, but the game introduces a Weapon Scarring system instead of removing a player’s entire inventory. This system is intended to maintain tension while avoiding overly punishing outcomes.
Igor Tanzil, Chief Creative Officer at Confiction Labs, explained the studio’s vision for balancing risk and accessibility.
“We wanted the part of extraction games that creates tension: deploying into a dangerous space, deciding how far to push, finding something you want, and trying to get out before the situation hits the fan,” said Igor Tanzil, Chief Creative Officer at Confiction Labs. “The important part for us was making gameplay tension serve a co-op PvE power fantasy, not turning mistakes into something that could ruin a player’s day.”
Early Access Follows Successful Community Testing
Before entering Early Access, RIFTSTORM participated in three major community playtests. During Steam Next Fest in June 2025, the game’s demo ranked among the Top 50 most-played titles during the event.
The Early Access period will focus on improving the game’s interconnected combat systems while expanding major areas of content, including:
- Additional Weavers
- New weapons
- More enemy types
- Expanded missions
- Long-term progression features
Confiction Labs has already revealed plans for future updates, including new playable Weavers and the upcoming Armory Update.
RIFTSTORM Launches on Steam in August 2026
RIFTSTORM will officially enter Early Access on Steam on August 11, 2026. The release will mark the beginning of a broader development phase focused on community feedback and continued expansion of the game world.
About RIFTSTORM and Confiction Labs
RIFTSTORM is a co-op PvE action title set in the Mythic Protocol universe. Players take control of Weavers, specialized operatives trained to fight supernatural Mythic threats. Through weapon customization, Lythogram upgrades, and strategic extraction decisions, players must adapt to unpredictable missions.
Confiction Labs is an entertainment studio developing RIFTSTORM and the wider Mythic Protocol universe. The company is focused on building RIFTSTORM as a cooperative PvE experience while expanding its fictional universe through community events, storytelling, and future entertainment projects.
Conclusion
With its cooperative approach, flexible extraction mechanics, and emphasis on squad-based action, RIFTSTORM aims to offer a different experience within the growing extraction shooter market. The Early Access launch on Steam will give players the opportunity to experience the game’s foundation while helping shape its future development.
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