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

Stray Kite Studios, a Dallas-based developer boasting industry veterans from titles like BioShock, Borderlands, and Age of Empires, has announced its first original game: Wartorn. This real-time strategy roguelite, slated for Steam and Epic Games Store early access release in Spring 2025, promises a unique blend of tactical combat, destructible environments, and challenging moral dilemmas.

Wartorn follows the journey of two elven sisters striving to reunite with their family in a fractured, chaotic fantasy world. Their quest will be fraught with peril, demanding strategic combat prowess and difficult choices with lasting consequences.

Dynamic Destruction and Moral Choices Define Wartorn's Gameplay

The game's physics-based environmental destruction system ensures no two playthroughs are alike. Battles unfold organically, influenced by the player's tactical decisions and the ever-changing landscape. Beyond combat, players face tough moral choices, such as deciding who to save or which character to prioritize, significantly impacting the narrative and replayability.

The magic system adds another layer of strategic depth. Players can dynamically combine elemental forces (fire, water, lightning) to create unique spell combinations with situational advantages, such as electrifying enemies in water or igniting tar-covered foes.

Painterly Aesthetics and Accessible Gameplay

Wartorn's painterly art style enhances the dramatic narrative, while its accessible gameplay features, including a slow-motion mode for precise command input, cater to a broad player base. The game's progression system incorporates carry-over upgrades between runs, making each attempt a learning experience that builds towards eventual victory.

Co-founder and Creative Director Paul Hellquist states, "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." This focus on narrative depth and challenging choices promises a compelling and memorable roguelite experience. Wartorn is set to launch in early access on Steam and the Epic Games Store in Spring 2025.