Deep in the mist-shrouded forests and frozen mines of the Urals, ancient tales stir once more. Veteran development studio Targem Games — creators of Crossout and Star Conflict — has officially unveiled Demidoff Corp, an atmospheric 2D metroidvania that blends punishing souls-like combat with the rich, seldom-seen folklore of Russia’s Ural Mountains.
A Land of Smoke, Magic, and Mystery
The story unfolds in a fictional historical era where the great Ural foundries belch smoke day and night — but something far darker is spreading alongside the industrial smog: a mysterious magical plague. You play as a retired, furry royal agent, called back from a quiet life to unravel the secret at the heart of the feared Demidov estate.
Venture into a sprawling, interconnected world inspired by the timeless folk tales of Pavel Bazhov — author of The Malachite Box — and the real-life dynasty of industrialist Nikita Demidov:
- Descend into ice-choked mine tunnels and forgotten shafts
- Traverse ancient, enchanted forests where trees seem to watch your step
- Cross subterranean lakes holding things better left undisturbed
- Infiltrate the Demidov stronghold — where the plague began, and where the truth waits
Souls-Blades and Spells — Mechanic Meets Myth
Demidoff Corp brings the sharp, unforgiving rhythm of souls-like design to hand-crafted 2D exploration:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Combat | Precision-driven encounters, stamina management, and punishing boss fights that demand patience and pattern recognition |
| Exploration | Vast, non-linear metroidvania map — unlock new abilities to reveal hidden paths, secret chambers, and shortcuts |
| Inspiration | Drawn directly from authentic Ural folk tales, creatures, and traditions |
| Art | Hand-crafted atmospheric 2D visuals steeped in wintry, industrial, and mythic tones |
| Release | Planned for first half of 2027 |
| Platform | Steam page live now — wishlist to track development |
From Makers of Crossout to Myth-Makers
Targem Games steps away from vehicular combat and online action to craft something deeply personal: a game rooted in their own cultural heritage. Every creature, every name, every shadow is born from the stories passed down through generations across the Ural region — making Demidoff Corp as much a cultural journey as a gaming one.
“We wanted to share the tales we grew up with,” the team shared in the announcement. “Stories of mistresses of the copper mountain, stone flowers, and creatures hidden in the deep taiga — now they walk the screen.”
Wishlist Now — Step Into the Tale
The Steam page is live right now. Add Demidoff Corp to your wishlist and be among the first to explore a world where folklore and industry collide — and where a single retired agent might stand between a sleeping evil and a waking nightmare.
Find out more here
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