Stray Kite Studios, the Dallas-based game development team known for their work on *Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep: A Wonderlands One-Shot Adventure* and numerous *Fortnite* Creative maps, has officially announced its first original title: *Wartorn*. Comprised of industry veterans from renowned franchises such as *BioShock*, *Borderlands*, and *Age of Empires*, the 30-person studio is now stepping into the spotlight with a brand-new IP set to launch in early access on Steam and the Epic Games Store in spring 2025.
A Unique Blend of Strategy and Storytelling
*Wartorn* merges real-time strategy mechanics with roguelite elements, delivering a dynamic and ever-changing gameplay experience. Set in a war-torn fantasy world, the game follows two elven sisters on a perilous journey to reunite with their family. Along the way, players will face intense combat scenarios and difficult moral choices that shape the narrative and influence outcomes across multiple playthroughs.
Dynamic Combat and Environmental Destruction
One of *Wartorn*’s standout features is its physics-driven destructible environments. Unlike traditional scripted destruction systems, this mechanic ensures that no two battles unfold exactly the same way. Players can leverage the chaos of war creatively—collapsing structures, flooding enemy positions, or electrifying terrain covered in water to gain tactical advantages.
Meaningful Choices That Matter
Between skirmishes, players must make tough decisions that impact survival and story progression. Who gets fed? Whose life is worth saving? These morally complex dilemmas reinforce the game’s core theme of finding purpose amid chaos. Every choice adds depth and replayability to the experience, ensuring no two journeys are alike.
Tactical Control Amidst the Chaos
To help players maintain control during intense moments, *Wartorn* includes a time-slowing mechanic that allows for precise unit commands. This feature enhances tactical decision-making without sacrificing the frenetic pace of battle. The magic system also offers flexibility, enabling players to mix elemental forces like fire, lightning, and water for both strategic and situational effects.
A Visually Striking World
Visually, *Wartorn* embraces a painterly art style that brings its war-ravaged world to life with dramatic flair. From scorched forests to crumbling castles, every environment is designed to reflect the turmoil at the heart of the game’s narrative.
Progression That Lasts Beyond Death
As expected in a roguelite, *Wartorn* features persistent progression between runs. Each failed attempt unlocks new tools and abilities, gradually making future attempts more manageable while keeping the challenge fresh and engaging.
“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.” — Paul Hellquist, Co-Founder & Creative Director, Stray Kite Studios
With its unique blend of tactical combat, environmental interactivity, and emotionally resonant storytelling, *Wartorn* promises to be one of the most intriguing indie titles of 2025. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches!
