Koji Igarashi has delayed Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, his spiritual successor to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, from its previously planned release window of March 2017 to the “first half of 2018.”
Here is the full message from Igarashi:
“Things have been progressing with development for Bloodstained, but between our current production set-up and release deadline, I’ve realized that at this rate the game may not end up meeting my quality standards.
“I’ve decided to add a new development team to the main production and improve our approach so that we can keep the game fully on track for how I envision it. We’re in the process of securing these new developers. We will share more information with all of you soon.
“”While the release date is not yet set in stone, we’re aiming for the first half of 2018. I apologize for the wait. However, I’d like to emphasize that I made this decision to absolutely guarantee the game is done right the first time.
“I hope you’ll continue to support us as wonderfully as you have been. The last thing I want to do is keep our backers waiting, but after receiving such incredible support, I feel responsible for delivering the best product I possibly can. Again, I offer my sincerest apologies.”
Watch the message in video form below.