New Game Unleashes Chaos from BioShock, Borderlands Veterans

Stray Kite Studios Unveils "Wartorn," a Real-Time Strategy Roguelite

Stray Kite Studios, a Dallas-based developer boasting veterans from renowned studios like BioShock, Borderlands, and Age of Empires, has announced its debut original title: Wartorn. This real-time strategy roguelite, slated for Steam and Epic Games Store early access launch in Spring 2025, promises a unique blend of tactical combat, impactful moral choices, and destructible environments rendered in a striking painterly style.

Wartorn follows the journey of two elven sisters striving for family reunification amidst a world steeped in conflict. Their quest will challenge players with demanding battles and morally complex decisions, shaping each playthrough into a distinct narrative experience.

Dynamic Destruction and Strategic Depth

The game's chaotic nature extends beyond its fractured world setting. Wartorn's physics-driven environmental destruction system ensures no two encounters are identical. This dynamic element, coupled with a flexible magic system allowing players to creatively combine fire, water, and lightning spells, fosters strategic depth and replayability. The strategic possibilities are further enhanced by the ability to slow down gameplay, allowing for precise command input amidst the frenetic action.

Co-founder and Creative Director Paul Hellquist emphasizes the game's thematic focus: "We’ve poured our hearts into creating a game that not only entertains but also makes players think deeply about sacrifice, survival, and the bonds that unite us."

Moral Choices and Meaningful Progression

Beyond combat, players will face difficult choices impacting the narrative and their characters' fates. Decisions such as prioritizing character sustenance or rescue attempts contribute to the story-driven roguelite experience, ensuring each playthrough feels unique and impactful. Progress is retained between runs through an upgrade system, making subsequent attempts progressively easier while maintaining the challenging core gameplay loop.

The game's painterly aesthetic enhances the dramatic presentation of its fantasy world. The accessibility features, including the ability to significantly slow down the action, ensure a smooth and engaging experience for all players.

Wartorn is set to launch in early access on Steam and the Epic Games Store in Spring 2025.