TECHMASH

Tag: #Deckbuilder

  • Shady O’Grady’s Overnight Sensation has officially entered Early Access

    Shady O’Grady’s Overnight Sensation has officially entered Early Access

    If you’ve ever dreamed of lead singer energy without the actual vocal strain, this is the title to watch. From the developer behind the cult-favorite Rising Star 2, this new entry shifts gears into a high-energy roguelike deckbuilder that’s as much about strategy as it is about rock ‘n’ roll.

    The Road to Stardom (One Card at a Time)

    Unlike traditional band sims, Overnight Sensation uses a deck-building mechanic to simulate the chaos of a rising rock band. You aren’t just managing schedules; you’re playing every instrument, laying down vocals, and handling the technical grease that keeps a tour moving across the U.S.

    Key Gameplay Features:

    • The Gig Map: Navigate a roguelike map of the United States, choosing your path from dive bars to massive festivals.
    • Battle of the Bands: Face off against local rivals and area “bosses” to earn fame, better gear, and the occasional groupie.
    • Deck Management: Your “instruments” (guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals) are your cards. Level them up to hit higher score multipliers, but watch out—dodgy leads and broken strings act as debuffs that can ruin a set.
    • Songwriting: After defeating rival bands, you can add new songs to your setlist. You even get to name them yourself, though your success depends on how well those “song cards” synergise with your existing deck.

    Why Early Access?

    Developer Todd M. Gillissie is leaning heavily into community feedback for this release. Having spent two years refining Rising Star 2 based on player input, the goal for Overnight Sensation is to spend the next 9 to 12 months in Early Access.

    One of the most ambitious goals on the roadmap? Replacing the current AI-generated placeholder music with 164 human-recorded tracks. The dev team plans to add more voice-overs, collectables, and random events (like van breakdowns or dodgy promoters) as the community helps fine-tune the balance.

    “I realized that the community feedback helped drive many of the great ideas that ultimately ended up in the game… I’d like to take the same approach with Shady O’Grady’s™ Overnight Sensation.” — Gilligames

    Ready to Tour?

    The game is available now on Steam. If you aren’t ready to commit to the full tour just yet, a demo is still available for download so you can test your rhythm before you hit the road.

    Whether you’re in it for the tactical deck-building or just want to see if you can survive the “syphilis and riders” of the touring life, Overnight Sensation looks like a riff worth playing.

    Are you planning to build your band from scratch, or do you have a specific genre in mind for your first run?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3965860

    #Gilligames #ShadyOGradysOvernightSensation #rockband #roguelike #deckbuilder #music #strategy #bandsimulation #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • Stochastic Walk Drops Free Demo for Roguelike Puzzler ‘Match Morphosis’

    Stochastic Walk Drops Free Demo for Roguelike Puzzler ‘Match Morphosis’

    The indie scene has a new heavyweight contender in the strategy-puzzle hybrid genre. Stochastic Walk, a solo indie studio led by developer Ernes Budiman, has officially released a free public demo for Match Morphosis on Steam.

    If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you injected the soul-crushing tactical depth of Slay the Spire into the accessible framework of Candy Crush, this is your answer.

    Strategy Over Speed

    Unlike traditional Match-3 games that rely on twitch reflexes and frantic timers, Match Morphosis is a turn-based affair. It trades the “stress of the clock” for the “stress of the brain.” Every move counts, and the game encourages you to study the board, calculate synergies, and plan several steps ahead.

    The loop is classic roguelike:

    1. Match tiles to deal damage or trigger effects.
    2. Defeat enemies to earn artifacts and perks.
    3. Build synergies that turn simple matches into screen-clearing cascades.
    4. Die, learn, and repeat.

    The “Custom C” Difference

    What’s perhaps most impressive is the tech under the hood. Developed entirely by Budiman using a custom game engine written in C, Match Morphosis is a testament to lean, efficient coding.

    Because it doesn’t rely on bloated third-party engines, the game boasts incredibly low system requirements—it needs just 256 MB of RAM to run. If you have a PC built in the last two decades, you can likely run this game flawlessly.

    Key Features at a Glance

    • Deep Customization: Over 50 tile types, 75+ artifacts, and 30+ perks to discover.
    • True Roguelike Variety: Procedurally generated runs ensure no two attempts are identical.
    • Minimalist Learning, Maximalist Mastery: The game features minimal tutorials, respecting the player’s intelligence by letting them discover complex mechanics through play.
    • Strategic Deckbuilding: Think of your “deck” as the pool of tiles and artifacts you’ve collected, dictating how you interact with the board.

    Try It Today

    The demo is available now on Steam, giving players a generous taste of the full strategic loop ahead of its planned Q4 2026 full release.

    If you’re looking for a game that respects your time, challenges your brain, and runs on a toaster, Match Morphosis is a must-download.

    Check out the demo here:Match Morphosis on Steam

    Are you a fan of “cozy” puzzles, or do you prefer the high-stakes permadeath of a roguelike?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4131100

    #StochasticWalk #freepublicdemo #MatchMorphosis #Roguelike #Deckbuilder #Steam #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • From the Creator of Terra Nil: Crux Games Unveils City-Builder Deckbuilder ‘Combolands’

    From the Creator of Terra Nil: Crux Games Unveils City-Builder Deckbuilder ‘Combolands’

    The indie scene is about to get a lot more “synergistic.” Crux Games, the South African duo featuring Sam Alfred (the designer behind the BAFTA-nominated hit Terra Nil), has officially announced their latest project: Combolands.

    Part city-builder, part roguelike deckbuilder, Combolands is a spiritual and literal evolution of the viral Itch.io hit Tiny Towns, which racked up over 100,000 views. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you mashed SimCity with the high-stakes addiction of Balatro, this is it.

    Your Cards are Buildings, Your Map is the Deck

    In Combolands, you aren’t just managing resources; you’re playing a hand. The game flips the traditional deckbuilder on its head—instead of a deck of spells or attacks, you’re growing a town across a series of handcrafted islands.

    Key Gameplay Mechanics:

    • Cascading Combos: Carefully place buildings to trigger massive chain reactions and unlock game-breaking synergies.
    • Guild System: Choose from a variety of guilds, each offering unique strengths, drawbacks, and exclusive buildings.
    • The Capital: Between runs, return to your capital city to spend earnings on permanent unlocks, including new buildings, relics, and council members.
    • Endless Archipelago: Once you’ve conquered the handcrafted islands, the game opens up into a procedurally generated “Maelstrom” mode for infinite replayability.

    A Pedigree of Relaxation and Strategy

    Sam Alfred and Skye Scott of Crux Games have a knack for making complex systems feel satisfying and tactile. While Terra Nil was about restoring nature, Combolands seems focused on the pure, dopamine-hitting satisfaction of a perfectly placed tile.

    The team is also getting a helping hand from Landfall (the folks behind Content Warning and Totally Accurate Battle Simulator), suggesting the game will have that extra layer of indie polish and charm.

    Try the Demo Today

    The announcement didn’t come empty-handed. Crux Games has released a brand new demo on Steam as of April 13, 2026. The demo features:

    • Three playable guilds (out of seven planned for the full release).
    • One handcrafted island to conquer.
    • 40 unique “heirlooms” to discover.

    “Combolands is a deckbuilder where instead of a deck, you’re growing a town. Settle islands, trigger cascading combos, and build a city for the ages.” — Crux Games

    Combolands is currently slated for a PC release, with no firm date yet, but the Steam page is live for wishlisting. If you’re a fan of strategic depth or just looking for your next “one more turn” obsession, this is definitely one to watch.

    Are you ready to break the game with the perfect city layout? Check out the trailer and download the demo on Steam now!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4075620

    #CruxGames #Combolands #SkyeScott #SamAlfred #pcgames #steam #deckbuilder #TinyTowns #games #gaming #gamers

  • Pay 2 Win: The World is Mine — Turning Game Dev Chaos into a Strategy Masterpiece this May

    Pay 2 Win: The World is Mine — Turning Game Dev Chaos into a Strategy Masterpiece this May

    If you’ve ever looked at a modern triple-A game and thought, “I could definitely exploit these players better than that,” your time has come. Patriots Division has officially announced that their absurd gamedev incremental deckbuilder, Pay 2 Win: The World is Mine, is leaving Early Access and launching into 1.0 on May 4, 2026.

    Forget about “balanced gameplay” and “fair progression.” This is a game about chasing the most intoxicating thing in the digital world: numbers that never stop going up.

    The Concept: From Failing Studio to Global Monopoly

    In Pay 2 Win, you step into the polished shoes of a CEO at a failing game studio. Your goal? Rescue the company from the brink of bankruptcy by any means necessary. You’ll be guided by your two anime-style assistants, Annie and May, who will help you navigate the treacherous waters of the industry—though they each have their own ideas about how a “successful” studio should be run.

    Breaking the Game (By Design)

    The core of Pay 2 Win is a “Facility System.” Your studio is a 2D grid where you place various facilities—over 100 unique types in total. By linking compatible facilities, you create output chains that multiply your revenue.

    The real fun starts when you dive into the roguelike deckbuilding elements:

    • Go Infinite: Combine spells, legendary items, and rare upgrades to find “broken” synergies that skyrocket your repute.
    • Play Your Way: Switch seamlessly between passive idle progression (for the busy executive) and active strategy (managing cooldowns and juggling buffs for maximum efficiency).
    • Randomised Rewards: Every playthrough offers a different set of randomised facilities, ensuring no two paths to global domination are the same.

    Why It’s Not Your Average Clicker

    While the title might poke fun at the industry’s most controversial business model, the depth of the gameplay is no joke. The game features:

    • Full Voice Acting: A narrative-driven campaign where your decisions actually alter the course of the story.
    • Handcrafted Visuals: Vibrant pixel art and UI that shifts and evolves based on your in-game success.
    • Futuristic Soundtrack: High-energy tracks designed to keep you in that “just one more upgrade” flow state.

    “Pay 2 Win is all about asking, ‘What if the numbers never stopped?’ It’s an absurd journey through the highs and lows of the gaming industry.” — Patriots Division

    Mark Your Calendars

    Whether you’re looking to build a wholesome indie empire or a ruthless monetisation machine, Pay 2 Win: The World is Mine offers the tools to do it.

    The game launches on PC via Steam on May 4, 2026. You can check out the demo right now on Itch.io or wishlist it on Steam to be ready for the grand opening.

    Stay tuned to TechMash for our full review closer to launch!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3390280

    #PatriotsDivision #Pay2Win #TheWorldisMine #deckbuilder #gamestudio #games #gaming #gamers #Roguelike

  • Eat the Rich (In a Card Game): Why All Will Rise is the Courtroom Drama We Need

    Eat the Rich (In a Card Game): Why All Will Rise is the Courtroom Drama We Need

    If you’ve ever looked at a news headline about a CEO’s tax “efficiency” and felt your blood pressure spike, indie developer Studio Gavel has the perfect digital outlet for your frustrations.

    Enter All Will Rise, a sleek, high-stakes courtroom deck-builder that trades fireballs and dragons for subpoenas and character assassination. It’s recently hit early access, and it’s already making waves for its sharp writing and even sharper mechanical bite.

    The Premise: Justice Isn’t Free (But Your Deck Is)

    In All Will Rise, you play as a scrappy, overworked public prosecutor tasked with bringing the world’s most untouchable “titans of industry” to justice. We aren’t talking about small-time shoplifters here; your targets are tech moguls, pharmaceutical kings, and oil barons who treat the law like a suggestion.

    The game is structured as a roguelike campaign. Each “run” involves building a case against a specific billionaire, navigating pre-trial discovery to find “Evidence” cards, and finally stepping into the courtroom for the ultimate showdown.

    How it Plays: Beyond the Objection

    If you’ve played Sledge the Spire or Balatro, the flow will feel familiar, but the “combat” is uniquely legalistic. Instead of health points, you’re managing Jury Favour.

    Evidence Cards: Your heavy hitters. These deal direct damage to the defendant’s “Credibility.”

    Rhetoric Cards: These provide “Defence” (blocking the billionaire’s high-priced lawyers from swaying the jury) or “Buffs” that make your future evidence more impactful.

    The “Objection!” Mechanic: A powerful interrupt system. If you time your Objection card correctly against a witness’s lie, you can trigger a “Perjury Chain,” doubling your damage for the turn.

    Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the “Character Witness” cards. They might look weak early on, but stacking “Emotional Appeal” is the only way to bypass the “Ironclad NDA” armour that late-game bosses use.

    The Aesthetic: Sharp Suits and Dark Humour
    The art style is a gorgeous, minimalist take on noir—think heavy shadows, sharp lines, and a colour palette that feels like a rainy evening in London.

    But the real star is the writing. The dialogue from the billionaire antagonists is deliciously punchable. They’ll sneer at your “budget suit” while playing cards like “Lobbyist Intervention” or “Media Spin,” which shuffle “FUD” (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) cards into your deck to clog up your hand.

    Why It’s Worth Your Time

    All Will Rise succeeds because it gamifies a power fantasy that feels relevant. There’s a visceral satisfaction in playing a perfectly timed “Forensic Accounting” card to strip away a billionaire’s “Offshore Tax Haven” shield. It’s strategic, stylish, and carries a biting social commentary that most deck-builders shy away from.

    Final Verdict: If you’re a fan of Phoenix Wright but want the tactical depth of a modern roguelike, All Will Rise is a mandatory addition to your Steam library. It’s time to prove that no one is above the law—or a well-constructed deck.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/F6Qi9

    #SpeculativeAgency #AllWillRise #courtroom #deckbuilder #kickstarter #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Meet Pluto: The Dark Fantasy Deckbuilder Where You Fight with Your Fingers

    Meet Pluto: The Dark Fantasy Deckbuilder Where You Fight with Your Fingers

    The roguelike deckbuilder genre is crowded, but every so often, a title emerges that refuses to play by the rules. Enter Pluto, a gritty, hand-drawn tactical gem from Siege Wizard Interactive and publisher indie.io.

    Launched on March 9, 2026, Pluto isn’t interested in saving the world. It’s a game about a “not-so-heroic” wizard who has been imprisoned for unspecified “wizard crimes.” Your only motivation? An invitation to your niece’s birthday party. To get there, you’ll have to blast your way through haunted forests, cursed ruins, and forgotten crypts.

    Spellcasting Like You’ve Never Seen

    What sets Pluto apart from heavyweights like Slay the Spire is its tactile, experimental combat system. This isn’t just about “playing the high-damage card.”

    The Finger System: You don’t just hold a hand of cards; you have elemental sigils assigned to your wizard’s fingers.

    Overlapping Gestures: To cast spells, you construct patterns. Elemental recipes can overlap, chain, and synergise in real-time, meaning every turn is a mini-puzzle.

    Emergent Strategy: The game encourages “happy accidents.” You might set out to cast a simple fireball and end up triggering a massive elemental reaction you didn’t see coming—or, occasionally, blowing yourself up.

    Atmosphere: Gory, Never Grim

    The visual identity of Pluto is striking, thanks to the work of acclaimed 2D artist Ditch Witch. It sports a stark, hand-drawn look that feels like a cross between Fear & Hunger and the surrealist vibes of Hylics.

    While the world is filled with grotesque, oozing monsters and “charred puddles” of enemies, the game maintains a sense of dark humour. The stakes are refreshingly mundane: you’re just an uncle in a rush, dodging jailors and trying to find a gift for a child while everything tries to kill you.

    Is It Worth the Hype?

    Early player feedback has been “Very Positive,” with many praising the “borderline genius” spellcasting system. It’s a game designed for those “A-ha!” moments where a complex chain of sigils finally clicks and clears the screen.

    If you’re tired of the same old “mana-and-damage” math and want a deckbuilder that feels like you’re actually weaving dangerous, unstable magic, Pluto is a must-play for 2026.

    TechMash Verdict: Pluto is a refreshing, visceral take on the deckbuilder genre. It’s weird, it’s messy, and it’s one of the most creative indie titles we’ve seen this year.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/8RPuf

    #Pluto #roguelike #deckbuilder #SiegeWizardInteractive #indieio #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • The Lab is Reopening: AlcheMice Private Playtest Hits Steam on March 12th

    The Lab is Reopening: AlcheMice Private Playtest Hits Steam on March 12th

    Get your whiskers ready and your bubbling flasks at the-ready. The wait for one of the most intriguing indie titles of the year is nearly over. AlcheMice, the chaotic multiplayer game that blends frantic platforming with deep alchemical crafting, has officially announced its next Private Playtest launching March 12th on Steam.

    If you’ve been looking for something that captures the “friendship-testing” energy of Overcooked but adds a layer of magical experimentation and rodent-based mayhem, this is the one to watch.

    What is AlcheMice?

    For the uninitiated, AlcheMice puts you in the tiny paws of an alchemist’s lab assistant—who also happens to be a mouse. You and your team are tasked with fulfilling complex potion recipes while navigating a laboratory filled with oversized hazards.

    The core loop is simple but addictive:

    Gather: Scavenge for rare ingredients hidden across the map.

    Brew: Combine elements in giant cauldrons to create powerful effects.

    Survive: Avoid environmental traps (and sometimes your own teammates’ failed experiments).

    What’s New in the March 12th Playtest?

    The developers have been quiet for a few months, hunkered down in their own real-life lab, and this update promises to be the most stable and feature-rich version of the game yet.

    Steam Integration: This playtest leverages Steam’s “Playtest” feature, making it easier than ever to jump in and invite friends.

    New Biomes: Expect to see fresh areas of the mansion beyond the basic kitchen, including the treacherous Botanical Garden.

    Refined Physics: Because let’s be honest, half the fun is seeing a mouse fly across the room because a potion exploded.

    How to Get In

    Since this is a Private Playtest, access isn’t guaranteed for everyone immediately. Here is your checklist to ensure you’re in the running:

    Steam Page: Head over to the AlcheMice Steam store page.

    Request Access: Click the “Request Access” button under the “Join the AlcheMice Playtest” banner.

    Check Your Email: On March 12th, keep a close eye on your inbox (and your spam folder) for the “You’ve been invited” notification from Steam.

    Pro Tip: The developers have hinted that active members of their Discord community often get a “fast-track” on keys, so it might be worth popping in to say hello to the dev team before the 12th.

    Final Thoughts

    AlcheMice represents exactly what we love at TechMash: innovative gameplay loops from indie studios that aren’t afraid to get a little weird. Whether you’re a competitive speedrunner or just looking for a new “chaos-simulator” to play with friends on a Friday night, mark your calendars for March 12th.

    Are you ready to turn lead into gold, or will you just end up turning your friends into frogs?

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/OEEVC

    #RedMountainGames #AlcheMice #roguelike #deckbuilder #GameDevelopersConference #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • Rebuilding the Shards: Our First Look at the Worlds Upon The Wind Playtest

    Rebuilding the Shards: Our First Look at the Worlds Upon The Wind Playtest

    In a gaming landscape often dominated by high-octane shooters and stressful survival sims, sometimes you just want to sit back, breathe, and build something beautiful. That is exactly the energy solo developer Max Shawabkeh is bringing to the table with Worlds Upon The Wind.

    Fresh off its inclusion in the Best Indie Games Spring Showcase, a limited-time open playtest has just landed on Steam (as of March 4th, 2026). We took it for a spin to see if this “peaceful roguelite” lives up to its meditative promises.

    The Premise: Apocalypse, but Make it Art

    Worlds Upon The Wind imagines a world that hasn’t just ended—it’s physically shattered. You play as a guide helping survivors resettle on drifting “world shards.” Each shard is a unique floating island composed of different biomes, from cherry blossom groves to desolate ruins.

    The most striking thing you’ll notice immediately is the art style. The game looks like a classical Japanese woodblock print come to life. It’s hand-painted, vibrant, and incredibly tranquil. If you’re a fan of Okami or the ukiyo-e aesthetic, you might find yourself staring at the background more than your hand of cards.

    Gameplay: Deckbuilding with a Conscience

    At its heart, this is a roguelite deckbuilder, but don’t expect to be “attacking” enemies for 50 damage. Instead of combat, the gameplay focuses on:

    World Restoration: You play cards to shape forests, manage resources, and develop settlements.

    Narrative Dilemmas: Every shard features narrative vignettes. You’ll face moral choices that don’t have “right” answers, but rather shape the traditions and history of your civilisation across generations.

    Spiritual Connections: You can befriend animal spirits and pacify restless ghosts, unlocking unique abilities that define your “build” for that run.

    The Playtest Experience

    The current Steam playtest gives a generous vertical slice of the game. It feels “thinky” but never punishing. Because the game is non-violent, the “roguelite” tension comes from managing your resources efficiently and planning for the long-term survival of your community rather than worrying about a health bar.

    “I wanted to create a strategy game for those who prefer to take their time and weigh their choices,” says Shawabkeh. “It’s about harmony and humanism, not just conquest.”

    The meta-progression looks promising too, with skill trees and unlockable companions that ensure each “shattered” run feels like progress toward a unified world.

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re looking for a “Morning Coffee” kind of game—something deep enough to engage your brain but peaceful enough to start your day—Worlds Upon The Wind is definitely one to wishlist.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://s.team/a/3640430

    #MaxShawabkeh #WorldsUponTheWind #roguelite #deckbuilder #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    The world has been swallowed by a deadly, ever-shifting fog, and the only way to survive is to keep moving. Hooded Horse and Mad Cookies Studio are thrilled to announce that their post-apocalyptic roguelike deckbuilder, Fogpiercer, is officially picking up speed as it races toward the Steam Next Fest (February 23 – March 4, 2026).

    Forget what you know about traditional card games. In Fogpiercer, your train isn’t just a vehicle—it’s your deck. As you navigate a branching wasteland, every carriage you add and every upgrade you secure determines the tactical tools at your disposal.

    What’s New in the Next Fest Demo?

    Whether you’re a veteran of the tracks or a first-time stowaway, the updated demo landing for Steam Next Fest features a massive cargo haul of new content:

    • Meet Your Drivers: Choose between two distinct leaders, Monica and Pan. Each comes with a unique set of cards and special abilities that drastically change your tactical approach.
    • The Harpoon Carriage: This brand-new addition allows for fresh synergies, letting you snag and manipulate the battlefield in ways that turn the environment into your greatest ally.
    • Tactical “Shunting”: Experience the “true joy of artillery.” It’s not just about direct damage; it’s about using the blast force to shove enemies into canyon walls, environmental hazards, or even into each other.
    • Global Accessibility: The demo now supports 16 languages, ensuring survivors from all over the world can join the journey.

    Your Train, Your Strategy

    Success in the fog requires more than just a heavy engine. You’ll need to meticulously manage your Action Points each turn to outmanoeuvre the hordes of “unreasonably angry” bandits.

    “In the harsh world of Fogpiercer, the train is the deck. Each carriage holds a unique set of cards, and new cards are added through upgrades and purchasing extra carriages.”

    Do you build a defensive fortress with shield-heavy carriages, or a high-octane glass cannon bristling with miniguns? With over 170 cards and a deep roguelite meta-progression layer, no two runs will ever feel the same.

    Join the Journey

    The Steam Next Fest event runs until March 4, 2026, but the tracks don’t end there—the updated demo will remain live after the event concludes, giving you plenty of time to master the rails before the full release later this year.

    Ready to pierce the fog? Wishlist Fogpiercer on Steam now and download the demo to see if you have what it takes to reach the end of the line.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/VNYHy

    #HoodedHorse #MadCookiesStudio #Fogpiercer #steam #pcgames #SteamNextFest #postapocalyptic #roguelike #deckbuilder #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • The Devil is in the Details: Occult Horror Deckbuilder ‘The Killing Stone’ Hits Steam Early Access

    The Devil is in the Details: Occult Horror Deckbuilder ‘The Killing Stone’ Hits Steam Early Access

    The wait is over for fans of atmospheric horror and deep strategy. The Killing Stone, the latest project from Question—the visionary indie studio behind The Magic Circle and The Blackout Club—is officially available in Steam Early Access as of today, February 18, 2026.

    If you’ve been looking for a card-battler that trades the bright colours of Balatro for the chilling, candle-lit dread of a 17th-century seance, your ritual is complete.

    A Faustian Bargain in the Arctic

    Set in a remote mansion in the frozen Arctic Circle, The Killing Stone casts you as the Maven, a practitioner of the dark arts. Your task? To save the cursed Svangård family from a series of demonic contracts.

    Unlike many deckbuilders that focus solely on the “run,” The Killing Stone is deeply narrative-forward. Between card matches, you’ll explore the mansion in first-person, uncovering the mystery of Mariken Svangård’s death and interacting with family members—and their eerie animal familiars.

    Key Features at Launch

    The Early Access version isn’t just a vertical slice; it’s a substantial offering that includes:

    • Three Story Arcs: Play through the chapters of three different family members, each with their own unique decks and “sins” to cleanse.
    • The Fanghella Board: A tactile, living game board where you play cards to summon 3D magical figurines and cast spells.
    • The Reserve System: A unique mechanic that lets you stack units and buffs above the battle line for later deployment, adding a layer of strategic foresight.
    • Dual-Language Narrative: In a brilliant atmospheric touch, you can experience the story in either Modern English or authentic 17th-century Period English, complete with voice acting from industry legends like Emma Gregory (Baldur’s Gate 3) and Liam O’Brien (Critical Role).

    Why Early Access?

    Originally slated for a full 1.0 release, the developers at Question decided to pivot to Early Access to let the community shape the game’s narrative and balance.

    “Playtesters wanted more story, more voice-acted content, and more freedom to solve the mystery themselves,” the studio shared. “Early Access allows us to refine the experience alongside the players who are most invested in this world.”

    While the current version offers roughly 6-8 hours of gameplay, the final release (expected in about six months) will include a massive endgame arc titled “The Reckoning.”

    Beat the Devil at His Own Game

    If you’re ready to sign the contract, The Killing Stone is currently available on Steam with a 25% launch discount. Be warned, though: every choice in the ritual matters, and every boon comes with a bane.

    Are you ready to face the Fanghella?

    Find out more here – https://www.thekillingstone.com/

    #QuestionGames #Occult #Horror #Deckbuilder #TheKillingStone #SteamEarlyAccess #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #demogame #videogames

  • Brace Yourselves: The Cosmic Horror of Starless Abyss Hits Nintendo Switch!

    Brace Yourselves: The Cosmic Horror of Starless Abyss Hits Nintendo Switch!

    The void is calling, and this time, you can take it with you on the bus. No More Robots and Konafa Games have officially confirmed that their hit cosmic horror deckbuilder, Starless Abyss, is launching on the Nintendo Switch on February 18, 2026.

    After a “Very Positive” reception on Steam last year, the intergalactic fight for humanity’s survival is making the jump to handheld. If you’re a fan of tactical depth, Lovecraftian dread, and “just one more run” roguelike loops, this is one to keep on your radar.

    The Story: Science Meets the Occult

    In the world of Starless Abyss, Earth has already fallen. What’s left of humanity has been forced into a desperate alliance, merging high-tech science with forbidden occult rituals to stand a chance against the Eldritch—an alien race of unspeakable horrors.

    You play as one of the Proximae, genetically and mystically enhanced warriors awakened from stasis. Your mission? Navigate the “Starless Abyss,” jump across realities, and find a single timeline where humanity doesn’t end in total annihilation.

    Gameplay: Tactical Fleet Management

    This isn’t your standard “play a card, deal damage” deckbuilder. Starless Abyss adds a layer of hex-based tactical positioning that sets it apart:

    • Command Your Fleet: You aren’t just one person; you’re managing a fleet of ships across a grid. Positioning matters for line-of-sight and avoiding devastating area-of-effect attacks.
    • The Heat Mechanic: Using weapon cards generates heat. If your ship overheats, it’s a sitting duck. Balancing your offensive output with your cooling systems is the difference between victory and becoming space dust.
    • 8 Factions & 200+ Cards: From “Tech” to “Occult” categories, the deck-building variety is massive. You can lean into raw firepower or use Ritual Cards that offer massive power at a dangerous cost.
    • D.I.C.E. System: Encounter a random event? Use the D.I.C.E. system to sway fate in your favour. Just pray the rolls land when you need them most.

    Key Features at a Glance

    FeatureDetails
    Release DateFebruary 18, 2026
    PlatformNintendo Switch (eShop)
    GenreRoguelike Deckbuilder / Strategy
    DeveloperKonafa Games
    PublisherNo More Robots
    Characters5 unique Proximae to unlock

    Why It’s Perfect for Switch

    Roguelike deckbuilders are arguably the best genre for the Nintendo Switch. The turn-based nature of Starless Abyss means you can play at your own pace—perfect for short bursts in handheld mode or long sessions docked on the TV while you marvel at the detailed, retro-futuristic pixel art.

    “Starless Abyss even fixed one of the weirdest narrative problems in roguelikes… why you die but get to restart. It’s all about the timelines.” — Early Review

    Will you be picking this up on launch day? Whether you’re a veteran from the PC version or a newcomer ready to face the Outer Gods, the abyss is waiting.

    Find out more here – https://starlessabyssgame.com/

    #NoMoreRobots #KonafaGames #StarlessAbyss #horror #deckbuilder #NintendoSwitch #scifi #pcgames #aliens #ufo #invasion #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • From Dive Bars to Stardom: Why Overnight Sensation is the Roguelike We Needed

    From Dive Bars to Stardom: Why Overnight Sensation is the Roguelike We Needed

    We’ve all seen the trope: a ragtag group of misfits piles into a rusted-out van with nothing but a beat-up guitar amp and a dream of making it big. But usually, that’s a movie montage. Shady O’Grady’s™ Overnight Sensation turns that grind into a high-stakes, deck-building roguelike that is as punishing as a 2:00 AM load-out in the rain.

    If you’ve ever wondered if you have what it takes to manage a band without the actual risk of losing your security deposit, this is your game.

    The Gameplay: Cards, Chords, and Chaos

    At its heart, Overnight Sensation follows the classic roguelike loop, but replaces “dungeon floors” with “tour legs.” You aren’t slashing goblins; you’re slaying crowds.

    • Build Your Setlist: Your deck represents your songs and stage moves. Do you open with a “High-Energy Riff” to build hype, or a “Power Ballad” to win over the sceptics?
    • Manage the Ego: Every band member has a “Stress” and “Ego” meter. Play too many solos with your lead guitarist, and your bassist might just quit mid-set.
    • The Permadeath Factor: If your “Reputation” hits zero, the band breaks up. You lose the van, the gear, and the fan club. It’s back to the garage to start a new “project” with different perks.

    Why It Hits Different

    What Shady O’Grady’s™ gets right is the flavour. The cards aren’t just stats; they are relatable nightmares for anyone who’s ever been in a band.

    Card NameEffectThe “Real World” Vibe
    “Bribe the Sound Guy”Improves audio quality for 3 turnsHanding a crumpled $20 bill to a guy named “Ratty.”
    “Broken String”Skip next turn; gain +5 TensionThe literal panic of fumbling in the dark for a spare.
    “Heckler Takedown”Silence a negative crowd effectThat one witty comeback that earns the room’s respect.

    The “Shady” Aesthetic

    The art style leans heavily into the underground zine culture of the 90s—gritty, hand-drawn, and slightly caffeinated. It perfectly captures that feeling of a sticky venue floor. The soundtrack (naturally) is procedural, changing based on the cards you play, making your “deck” actually sound like a cohesive setlist.

    Pro Tip: Don’t ignore the “Gas Money” mechanic. You can have a deck full of legendary hits, but if your van breaks down outside of Des Moines, the run is over.

    Final Verdict

    Overnight Sensation is a love letter to the DIY music scene. It’s a game where “success” isn’t just winning—it’s surviving the tour with your dignity (and your drummer) intact. It’s addictive, brutal, and captures the rhythm of the road perfectly.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/VGHWq

    #ShadyOGradys #OvernightSensation #BandLife #Roguelike #Gilligames #Deckbuilder #Music #bands #BandSimulation #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Pluto: Where Magic is Volatile and Retirement is Mandatory

    Pluto: Where Magic is Volatile and Retirement is Mandatory

    Ever felt like your 9-to-5 was killing you? For Pluto, a crotchety wizard with a dwindling mana pool and a sentient, sarcastic staff, that’s literally the case. Welcome to Pluto, the roguelike deckbuilder that asks the age-old question: “How many fireballs can I throw before the universe files a formal complaint?”

    In a genre crowded with stoic knights and grim fantasy, Pluto leans into the absurdity of being an ageing academic with the power to rewrite reality—and the back pain that comes with it.

    The Hook: Magic is a Zero-Sum Game

    In most deckbuilders, you’re building toward becoming a god. In Pluto, you start as a “has-been” and spend each run trying to survive your own chaotic genius. The game swaps out the typical “honour” system for The Entropy Meter.

    • Cast a spell? Your power goes up, but so does the chance your sleeves catch fire.
    • Play a “Memory” card? You regain mana but might forget which floor of the dungeon you’re on, shuffling your intent icons.
    • The Comedy of Errors: Dying isn’t just a “Game Over”—it’s usually a punchline involving a polymorph spell gone wrong and a very confused sheep.

    Gameplay: Strategic Chaos

    The core loop involves navigating the “Astral Retirement Home,” a shifting labyrinth of cosmic horrors and bureaucratic nightmares.

    FeatureHow it WorksWhy it’s Funny
    Deck DecayCards get “wrinkled” and lose power the more you use them.Your best “Meteor Swarm” eventually becomes a “Lukewarm Pebble.”
    The Grumble MechanicA unique resource generated by taking damage.You can spend “Grumble” to insult enemies, lowering their morale.
    Sentient LootYour gear has opinions on your performance.Your hat might mock you for missing a lethal blow.

    Why You’ll Keep Coming Back

    The dark comedy isn’t just flavour text; it’s woven into the strategy. You aren’t just managing health and energy; you’re managing Dignity. Lose too much, and Pluto might just give up and go take a nap, ending the run.

    The art style—think “Gothic Saturday Morning Cartoon”—perfectly captures the vibe of a man who is far too tired to be saving the world, yet far too stubborn to let anyone else do it.

    “I didn’t spend twelve years at the Arcane Institute to be eaten by a slime with an identity crisis.” > — Pluto, moments before being eaten by a slime.

    Pluto manages to hit that sweet spot between “tough-as-nails strategy” and “laugh-out-loud absurdity.” It’s a love letter to anyone who loves Slay the Spire but wishes the protagonist complained about their knees more often.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/0J7Sr

    #Pluto #SiegeWizardInteractive #roguelike #deckbuilder #wizard #dungeons #PC #Steam #indieio #demogame #gameupdate #SteamNextFest #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Monster Train 2: Destiny of the Railforged arrives February 2nd

    Monster Train 2: Destiny of the Railforged arrives February 2nd

    It’s time to stoke the engines and prepare for another descent into the frozen depths. Monster Train 2: Destiny of the Railforged has officially arrived, and it manages to do the impossible: it makes the original’s tight, addictive loop feel like a mere warm-up.

    If you loved the vertical tower-defence-meets-deckbuilding chaos of the first game, here is why you’ll likely lose another 100 hours to the sequel.

    What’s New on the Tracks?

    • The “Railforged” Mechanic: You aren’t just defending a train anymore; you’re actively upgrading it. The new customisation system allows you to swap out room layouts and install “Engine Cores” that fundamentally change how your deck behaves.
    • Dual-Class Synergy 2.0: The clan combinations return, but with deeper “Cross-Pollination” cards that only unlock when you hit specific resonance levels between your primary and allied clans.
    • 3D Visual Overhaul: The jump to a stylised 3D engine makes the spells feel weightier and the gargantuan bosses even more intimidating as they loom over your top floor.
    • The Destiny Map: Instead of a linear path, you now navigate a shifting map where your choices impact the “Heat” level of the run—balancing high-reward treasures against increasingly brutal enemy buffs.

    Why It Hits Different

    The beauty of Monster Train has always been its “brokenness.” While other deckbuilders focus on incremental gains, this series wants you to find a way to do $10,000$ damage in a single turn. Destiny of the Railforged leans into that power fantasy even harder, giving you the tools to create truly monstrous combinations that feel like you’re cheating—until the Seraph-tier bosses show up to check your ego.

    Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the new Clockwork Clan. Their ability to “Rewind” unit deaths can turn a disastrous turn into a flawless victory if you time your resource spending correctly.

    Find out more here – https://www.bigfangames.com/games/monster-train-2

    #MonsterTrain2DestinyoftheRailforged #MonsterTrain2 #DestinyoftheRailforged #monstertrain #DLC

    #BigFan #DevolverDigital #ShinyShoe #deckbuilder #PC #PlayStation #Xbox #games #gaming #gamers #videogames