BioShock and Borderlands Alums Unleash New Anarchy

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 a Spring 2025 Early Access release on Steam and the Epic Games Store, promises destructible environments, challenging moral dilemmas, and a striking painterly art style.

Wartorn follows the journey of two elven sisters striving to reunite with their family in a fractured fantasy world rife with conflict. Players will navigate perilous battles, grapple with difficult choices, and explore the meaning of purpose amidst chaos. The game's emphasis on player agency extends beyond combat, with impactful decisions influencing the narrative and shaping each playthrough.

Dynamic Destruction and Moral Choices Define Wartorn's Gameplay

Wartorn's unique blend of real-time strategy and roguelite mechanics creates a dynamic and unpredictable experience. Physics-driven environmental destruction ensures no two encounters are alike, adding a layer of emergent gameplay. Strategic combat utilizes a flexible magic system, allowing players to creatively combine elemental forces (fire, water, lightning) for diverse tactical options. For example, players can electrocute enemies submerged in water or ignite tar-covered foes.

Between battles, players confront difficult moral choices, such as deciding who to prioritize for survival or sustenance. These decisions are integral to the narrative, further enhancing the replayability and unique story experiences.

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."

Accessibility and Progression in Wartorn

Wartorn incorporates a progression system where upgrades persist between runs, making subsequent attempts progressively easier. The game's painterly aesthetic enhances the dramatic atmosphere of its setting. To ensure accessibility, players can slow down the action and issue precise commands, providing control amidst the chaos.

The game is set to launch in Early Access on Steam and the Epic Games Store in Spring 2025.