Fans of indie RPGs have been eagerly awaiting news about Deltarune: Chapter 3, the next installment in Toby Fox’s beloved follow-up to Undertale. With Chapters 1 and 2 setting the stage for a darker, more complex world than its predecessor, Chapter 3 has become one of the most anticipated upcoming releases in the indie game scene. But what exactly can we expect from Deltarune: Chapter 3?
Let’s dive into what we know, what’s been hinted at, and what fans are speculating.
A Recap of Chapters 1 and 2
Before speculating on Deltarune: Chapter 3, it’s worth briefly reviewing what happened in the first two chapters.
In Chapter 1, players were introduced to Kris, a seemingly ordinary teenager, and their classmate Susie. After falling into a mysterious “Dark World” hidden beneath their school, they teamed up with a new character, Ralsei, to restore balance to this alternate dimension. The gameplay borrowed heavily from Undertale, combining turn-based combat with bullet-dodging mechanics and offering the option to spare enemies rather than defeat them.
Chapter 2 took things a step further by introducing a new Dark World and expanding the cast of characters with new faces like Noelle and Queen. The chapter explored deeper themes of control, freedom, and choice, all while maintaining the humor and charm Toby Fox is known for.
When Is Deltarune: Chapter 3 Coming?
As of now, there is no official release date for Deltarune: Chapter 3. However, Toby Fox has confirmed that he is developing Chapters 3, 4, and 5 simultaneously to streamline the process. This may lead to a longer wait, but it could also mean that once Chapter 3 drops, the next chapters might follow more quickly.
Toby Fox has also mentioned in development updates that the team is growing and development is progressing steadily. While fans may need to be patient, it’s clear that the team is committed to delivering a high-quality continuation of the story.
New Gameplay Features
Deltarune: Chapter 3 is expected to include several new gameplay mechanics that build upon the systems introduced in the first two chapters. While specifics are scarce, Toby Fox hinted at a new battle system mechanic and a focus on making each chapter feel unique.
Given Chapter 2’s “Spare or Fight” tension and the introduction of the “Snowgrave Route,” which was significantly darker and more complex, it’s likely that Chapter 3 will offer even more morally ambiguous choices. The potential for new routes or alternate endings could add even more replayability to the game.
We might also see:
- New party members or temporary allies unique to Chapter 3.
- Enhanced combat interactions, such as tag-team attacks or new enemy behavior patterns.
- Environmental puzzles or mini-games that reflect the theme of the new Dark World.
What Will the New Dark World Be?
One of the most exciting aspects of Deltarune: Chapter 3 is the introduction of a third Dark World. Each chapter so far has introduced a new area filled with its own characters, enemies, and themes. Fans speculate that Chapter 3’s Dark World will be based on the computer lab, considering Chapter 2 ended in the library.
If this theory holds true, the aesthetic could be more digital or sci-fi-inspired, perhaps filled with glitchy enemies, electronic music, and tech-based puzzles. Toby Fox’s musical talents will no doubt shine again in this chapter, with a soundtrack that matches the theme of the new environment.
Returning Characters and New Faces
Characters like Kris, Susie, and Ralsei are expected to return as the core party. Noelle and Berdly may also make appearances, depending on how much the events of Chapter 2 carry over. The mysterious character Spamton, introduced in Chapter 2 as a hidden boss, may have lingering influence or even return in some form.
There’s also the question of how much influence characters from Chapter 2’s “Snowgrave Route” will have. Will that darker path affect events in Deltarune: Chapter 3? Will Noelle remember what happened if you chose that route?
As for new characters, fans are hoping for additional quirky and complex personalities to be introduced. With each Dark World offering fresh NPCs, there’s a high likelihood of new villains, bosses, and allies with distinctive dialogue and backstories.
Lore, Secrets, and Fan Theories
Deltarune thrives on hidden lore, cryptic dialogue, and secrets that encourage players to dig deeper. Chapter 3 is expected to continue this trend, possibly tying in more threads to Undertale, though Toby Fox has stated that Deltarune is its own universe.
Still, many fans can’t help but speculate on Kris’s mysterious behavior, especially the scenes where Kris removes their soul—implying that the player may not be fully in control. Chapter 3 might provide more context on this disturbing twist, deepening the central themes of identity and autonomy.
Final Thoughts
While we still await a firm release date, there’s no shortage of excitement for Deltarune: Chapter 3. With new characters, fresh mechanics, and deeper storylines likely in store, it promises to expand the world of Deltarune in bold and surprising ways.
Whether you’re drawn to the witty dialogue, bullet-dodging gameplay, or the rich lore, Chapter 3 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated indie releases on the horizon. Keep an eye on official updates, and in the meantime, revisit Chapters 1 and 2—you never know what new secrets you might uncover before the journey continues.