So Many New Features Await in Bloodgrounds
Exordium Games and Daedalic Entertainment have released the second major Early Access update for Bloodgrounds, titled Trials of the Gladiator, expanding the tactical gladiator sim with new systems and deeper class customization. The update introduces fresh gameplay layers while enhancing every gladiator class with an additional ability, opening the door to more varied and lethal builds.
Each gladiator now gains access to a new skill that significantly alters combat strategies. These abilities introduce effects such as frost-based movement attacks, poison and bleed damage, explosive crowd control, rapid spinning assaults, and precise ranged strikes. Together, they allow players to fine-tune their fighters with greater flexibility, encouraging experimentation and specialization across all classes.
A major addition in this update is the Gladiator Expeditions feature. Gladiators who are not currently fighting, training, or recovering can now be sent on expeditions. This gives idle fighters a meaningful role outside the arena. Expeditions add a new strategic layer to roster management and long-term planning, rewarding players who carefully balance risk, timing, and resources.
Crucially, expeditions are also the only way to change a gladiator’s worshipped Deity and Traits. This system allows players to further customize individual fighters, reshaping their strengths and aligning them more closely with specific playstyles or team compositions. The update also introduces new class abilities for all nine gladiator types. This includes powerful area attacks, support skills, battlefield control, and chain-based damage effects.
Trials of the Gladiator marks the second major expansion during Bloodgrounds’ Early Access period. The full 1.0 release of the gladiator simulation is currently planned for early 2026.