Warsaw-based independent developer VARSAV Game Studios has announced that BARKOUR, its fast-paced action platformer featuring a highly skilled canine secret agent, is scheduled to launch in Q4 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The announcement comes alongside a brand new trailer and marks an important milestone for the studio, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year after four years of developing the project.
BARKOUR puts players in the paws of Agent THUNDER, a spy dog equipped with an arsenal of gadgets, a full set of parkour skills, and the kind of canine instinct that sometimes gets in the way of the mission. The game mixes action, stealth, and platforming, giving players the freedom to choose how they approach each situation, whether that’s sneaking past enemies, using one of more than 30 gadgets to create a distraction, or simply diving headfirst into a fight. VARSAV describes it as a handcrafted single-player adventure lasting approximately 15-18 hours, set in varied worlds and missions with secrets, alternate routes, and a cast of 26 distinctive characters.
Previous trailers for BARKOUR leaned heavily on gameplay mechanics, showcasing the parkour system, stealth options, and combat possibilities. The new story trailer takes a different approach, offering the most detailed look yet at the world and narrative that drives THUNDER’s globe-trotting adventure. The tone seems to balance humor and visual comedy with more emotional beats, with THUNDER’s thoughts translated into human language via a special gadget, while his personality shines through in his animations, expressions and reactions to the world around him. The studio has confirmed that the game has more than 30 emotes and that THUNDER remains, at its core, a dog.
Alongside the confirmation of the release window, VARSAV announced that a major updated demo will launch during Gamescom 2026. The studio would like to emphasize that this is not a minor patch for the existing version, but a significantly improved version with updated gameplay, presentation, content and finishing. Those attending Gamescom in person will be able to find the game at HOME OF INDIES, Hall 10.2, booth E-19. For everyone else, the demo will be available to download during the event, making it the most accessible version of the game yet.
BARKOUR will launch on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, as well as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Players can now add it to their Steam wishlist at store.steampowered.com/app/1920290/Barkour, and it’s also listed on the PlayStation Store. News and content creators interested in review codes can register their interest by contacting the studio directly at (email protected). For the latest updates, VARSAV Game Studios can be followed on X, Bluesky, and Discord.
Frequently Asked Questions
On which platforms will BARKOUR be available?
BARKOUR will launch on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The game is currently available as a wishlist on Steam and the PlayStation Store.
When is BARKOUR released?
BARKOUR is expected to launch in Q4 2026. No specific release date has yet been confirmed by developer VARSAV Game Studios.
How long does BARKOUR last?
VARSAV Game Studios described BARKOUR as a 15-18 hour single-player adventure set in varied worlds and missions.
Is BARKOUR multiplayer?
No, BARKOUR is a hand-crafted single-player experience. No multiplayer mode is mentioned.
Is there a BARKOUR demo available?
A major updated demo is expected to launch at Gamescom 2026. VARSAV described it as a significantly improved version with updated gameplay, presentation, content, and polishing, and it will be available both at the Gamescom show floor and for download during the event.
