Chained Beasts: Beast Unlocks and Variants Explained

The launch overview announces eight unlockable beasts, alongside variants with different stats or abilities and cosmetic options. The developer previously described earning beast experience through play. This confirms a progression system, but not a complete unlock checklist or a reliable strongest-character ranking.

How many beasts are announced?

Eight are listed in the October 7 launch overview. That figure refers to the announced full game. It should not be replaced by the number visible in a Demo menu, a promotional screenshot or an older playtest.

The May update explicitly named Rhino and Ibex as additions to a reworked beast lineup. We cover the evidence and its limits in the Rhino and Ibex overview. Other names, unlock costs and ability values are omitted until verified.

How do variants work?

The developer says variants can have different stats and abilities. That means a variant is not necessarily just a costume. Before choosing one, compare its actual current description with the version you already understand.

Our advice is to change one meaningful part of your setup at a time. That makes it easier to tell whether a different movement feel, ability or item choice helped. Pair the choice with your weapon plan rather than evaluating the character in isolation.

How should you approach unlocks?

The May announcement describes earning XP by playing a beast and unlocking variants. The launch overview does not establish that every beast uses the same unlock condition. Check the in-game requirements for each locked option instead of assuming a universal experience threshold.

For a new player, understanding one available beast is a more actionable goal than chasing an unverified tier list. Use the first-run guide to establish a baseline, then compare the choices your actual game exposes. If you report an unlock correction, include the game version and a screenshot of the requirement.

Sources and verification

Checked October 15, 2026 against the sources below. Tactical recommendations are editorial advice, not a claim of hands-on testing. Screenshots are official promotional imagery and may show earlier builds.

• Official Steam store
• Featherweight Games: Chained Beasts - Launch Price Reveal
• Featherweight Games: The Updated Chained Beasts Demo is LIVE!

See our editorial policy for how we handle evidence and corrections.