New information for the 2D fighting game, MELTY BLOOD: TWI-LUMINA, has arrived!
Details on new battle systems added since the previous entry and the new Grand Scenario Mode are now out.
Aniplex also announced that the game will appear at Tokyo Game Show 2026.
New Information Revealed for "MELTY BLOOD: TWI-LUMINA"!
Aniplex revealed new details for "MELTY BLOOD: TWI-LUMINA" (hereafter TWI-LUMINA) during the "TYPE-MOON TIMES Business Trip Edition in FGO Fes. 2026" broadcast.
New Control Mode, "Act," Added for One-Button Special Moves!
YouTubeTWI-LUMINA introduces a new control type called Act.
Unlike traditional control methods, Act allows players to trigger a dash with a single forward input or execute special moves with a single button without complex command inputs.
Much like the Modern controls in Street Fighter 6, this accessible system has become standard in recent fighting games, making the title far more beginner-friendly.
While such systems often come with drawbacks, such as reduced attack power during use, the broadcast explicitly stated that there are no such penalties.
Furthermore, developers updated the Rapid Beat system, which allows combos to continue simply by repeatedly pressing buttons.
Depending on the button pressed, players trigger a powerful final move that increases combo variety.
Combined with the aforementioned Act control type, this system makes the game even easier to enjoy for newcomers.
YouTubeThe game also includes the traditional control method under the name Duel, so players who spent countless hours on the previous entry can rest easy.
New System, "Gauntlet," Added!
YouTube
As a new mechanic, developers added the Gauntlet, which activates by consuming the star-like Lumina gauge located below the health bar.
During the broadcast, presenters introduced it as an extremely strong rushing move!, but gameplay footage shows a system that can nullify opponent attacks while blowing them away.
Players will likely use it as a reversal option in the corner or as a countermeasure against opponent projectiles.
YouTubeHowever, spamming it causes the Lumina gauge's appearance to flash like lightning, rendering the Gauntlet unusable for a set duration.
Players will need to carefully time its activation.
Some Playable Characters Revealed!
During the broadcast, presenters revealed a selection of playable characters, including the new character, Len, who joins TWI-LUMINA.
Shiki Tohno
YouTubeMELTY BLOOD takes place within the worldview of the visual novel game, Tsukihime.
The appearance of Shiki Tohno, the protagonist of Tsukihime, is practically inevitable.
In TWI-LUMINA, he wears casual clothes rather than the school uniform from previous titles.
YouTubeIn past titles, Shiki excelled in close-quarters combat, but in TWI-LUMINA, he has acquired a projectile attack.
Players can charge this projectile to make it unblockable, further refining his offensive options.
YouTubeAdditionally, while TWI-LUMINA enhances the visual presentation of every character's special moves, Shiki receives brand-new cut-ins that make these upgrades immediately noticeable.
Arcueid Brunestud
YouTubeArcueid, the main heroine of Tsukihime, also makes her return.
While the stream confirmed no major move changes for her, she is sure to run wild once again with her rushdown style just like in the previous entry.
YouTube
Additionally, TWI-LUMINA displays profile portraits for each character as part of the pre-match presentation, clearly highlighting Arcueid's distinct attitude toward Shiki.
Mash Kyrielight
YouTubeMash, crossing over from Fate/Grand Order, makes her return as well.
Her fighting style fitting a Shielder-class Servant—parrying attacks with her shield while closing the distance—remains intact.
YouTube
During gameplay footage in the stream, Mash showcased several new animation changes, including a counter move to catch opponent attacks and a dynamic shield swing.
The stream explicitly stated that "she has various new moves added," giving her substantial updates compared to other returning characters.
Len
YouTubeLen, a returning character from past entries, makes her long-awaited entry in TWI-LUMINA.
While full details will arrive later, presenters featured a live match showcasing Len during the broadcast.
YouTube
During the match, she demonstrated several moves utilizing light and cats, evoking nostalgia for veteran players.
YouTubeA closer look at the character selection screen reveals the description: "Tricky character who excels in aerial combat."
Len featured powerful aerial options in past titles, and TWI-LUMINA carries those traits forward.
New Mode, "Grand Scenario Mode," Written by Kinoko Nasu Added!
YouTubeTWI-LUMINA will feature a new mode called Grand Scenario Mode, written exclusively by Kinoko Nasu, the writer behind Tsukihime.
While specific details remain sparse, Ryousuke Kanemoto (@ryosuke_kane), the voice actor for Shiki Tohno, explicitly stated that the voice recording session was tough, promising a massive amount of story content.
Even if you love Tsukihime but aren't great at fighting games, why not take this opportunity to give MELTY BLOOD a try?
World's First Playable Demo Exhibition Confirmed at Tokyo Game Show 2026!
YouTubeAniplex announced that it will host a TWI-LUMINA playable demo at its booth during "Tokyo Game Show 2026," held at Makuhari Messe from September 17 (Thu) to September 21 (Mon, Holiday), 2026.
Further details are currently unknown, but this offers a chance to play TWI-LUMINA as early as possible.
Make sure to clear your schedule ahead of time.
TWI-LUMINA is scheduled for release in early 2027.
Be sure to check the MELTY BLOOD: TWI-LUMINA Official Website and Official X for future updates.
