Dreamhaven and Secret Door just put out underrated turn-based tactical game Sunderfolk last year — and we’re already getting a new game announcement! Shadowstone is a 1-4 player tactical roguelite, set in the same fantasy anthropomorphic world of Sunderfolk. It’s launching first on Steam Early Access later this year ($14.99).
As someone who played a lot of Sunderfolk, Shadowstone looks like a close cousin spinoff, with the same art style, world, and hex-based combat.
Instead of leveling up over the course of a lengthy campaign, however, players will choose their hero to begin a new run of randomized rooms and monsters.
Four heroes are available, including two from Sunderfolk, the berserker, pyromancer, ranger, and witch. Their goal is to escape the clutches of the Lich in the shadowstone-infested ruins. Each hero has unique skills and abilities, and gain more card abilities, upgrades, and equipment as they progress through each challenge.
Honestly, looks like a great way to experience Sunderfolk-like tactical gameplay without committing to an entire campaign. Although I’m not crazy about the ultra-dim lighting shown in the trailer and screenshots.
Shadowstone can be played solo, or with up to four people in online multiplayer.
“Shadowstone is a natural next step for our team after Sunderfolk,” said Chris Sigaty, studio head of Secret Door. “Inspired by some of our favorite roguelikes, the world and characters of the Sunderlands are back, but in a more dangerous, more challenging, and even more engaging strategic experience.”
Shadowstone will release later this year on Steam Early Access.
The original Sunderfolk is also getting some love, with a major 2.0 update adding a new hero, new game mode, and online multiplayer for PC. Sunderfolk 2.0 is arriving on March 10 on all platforms.
