The legendary Painkiller is making a comeback. 3D Realms and Anshar Studios have announced a reimagined version of the classic first-person shooter at the Future Games Show Spring Showcase. The game is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC in Fall 2026.
If you have never played Painkiller before, think of it as a fast, action-packed shooter where you blast through waves of demons using crazy weapons. The original game was released back in 2024 and became popular because of its intense combat, creepy gothic settings, and non-stop action.
Unlike the original, this version lets you join forces with up to three other players to battle relentless waves of demons. Movement is faster and more dynamic—you can jump, dash, and even use a grappling hook to navigate vast, eerie landscapes. There will also be a single player option. Choose from four unique characters—Ink, Void, Sol, and Roch—each with their own abilities. Strategize with teammates by using special tarot cards to enhance your powers and take on terrifying enemies, including the Nephilim, the monstrous offspring of Azazel.
One of the biggest changes is the co-op mode. The original Painkiller was all about solo survival in a terrifying world, so adding multiplayer is a big shift. Some players might love teaming up, while others could miss the feeling of facing the horror alone.
Another challenge will be keeping up with modern FPS games. Games like Doom Eternal have set high standards for fast-paced shooters, so Painkiller will need to bring something fresh to the table. If it can keep its brutal action and crazy weapons while adding new twists, it could be a big win for fans of old-school shooters.
