RPGs Coming This Week, 3/23/25

Redemption of Liuyin – March 23rd (Windows)

Unless you’re super clued into the Chinese scene, Redemption of Liuyin is probably as new to you as it is to me. Well, it turns out this Souls-like actually has quite the history. According to the Steam description, it’s the third in the Ryukyu Hidden series and the “Ryukyu Hidden Nine Ultimate Reincarnation Chapter”. A previous release called Nine Treasures of Liuyin is available in English, and you can see there’s a throughline of fast-paced, difficult-to-master combat in these games.

Redemption of Liuyin promises punishing action centered around relentless attacking, with the goal of a “sweat-drenched combat experience” for players. That kind of thing isn’t for everyone, but if you’re able and willing, this might be a game to check out. Also of note is a branching story, and you can reduce the difficulty if you’re thorough with finding secrets. Classic Souls-like stuff, really.

by Gio Castillo

Dark Deity 2 – March 24th (Windows)

Dark Deity 2 gets a PC release this week. This sequel to 2021’s sleeper hit Dark Deity is poised to take players back into the turbulent world of Verroa, a quarter-century later. In the first game, players were introduced to a rich tapestry of characters and tactical combat heavily inspired by Game Boy Advance-era Fire Emblem games. Developer Sword & Axe doesn’t shy away from their influence, describing Dark Deity 2 as a “love letter to the classics of the SRPG genre, reimagined.”

This game features a duo of main protagonists in siblings Gwyn and Riordian. Players will unravel political landscapes while rallying a diverse band of 20 playable heroes. Each decision made will forge alliances, shape the army, and ultimately influence the tide of the impending conflict. At the heart of Dark Deity 2 lies familiar turn-based tactical combat akin to those familiar with Fire Emblem. Characters can branch into 45 distinct classes, allowing players to experiment with party composition. A unique feature is the bond system between characters; friendships can be as fragile as forged alliances, and players will be challenged to maintain them. Fans of strategy RPGs should give Dark Deity 2 a chance on March 24th. Anyone on the fence can also try the free demo on Steam now.

by Jimmy Turner

AI LIMIT – March 27th (PS5, Windows)

While AI LIMIT is not necessarily a topical story about the pitfalls of artificial intelligence, it definitely screams gritty, post-apocalyptic sci-fi. Developed by Chengdu-based studio Sense Games, this Souls-like takes place in a world centuries after the collapse of human civilization, as evidenced by ruins of modern buildings all over the place.

I would say its closest relatives are Code Vein aesthetically and Bloodborne in terms of combat. Like the former, AI LIMIT has this cel-shaded look that stands out, as it isn’t yet commonplace for the genre. In battles, the Bloodborne influence is most obvious with the Sync Rate system, a take on the rally mechanic that similarly rewards players for being aggressive while avoiding damage. If you’re looking for a Souls-like that kind of breaks the mold compared to similar games, I think AI LIMIT is worth consideration.

by Gio Castillo

The First Berserker: Khazan – March 27th (PS5, XSX, Windows)

I sense The First Berserker: Khazan will be regarded as the most brutal of this bunch of Souls-likes. Why? Well, a demo has been out since January, and a common refrain I’ve seen is that it’s hard as balls. For some of us, that can only be a good thing, but it can be a bit of a barrier for others. There is an easy mode, so that should be the on-ramp for interested players with a lesser tolerance for difficulty.

The First Berserker: Khazan is connected to Dungeon Fighter Online, a long-running beat-em-up action RPG with a significant global presence, though it’s huge in East Asia. I’m willing to wager this new game will be a big deal, and my terminal FOMO might tilt me towards buying this sooner rather than later.

by Gio Castillo

Rosewater – March 27th (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Rosewater, a classically inspired point-and-click adventure set in an alternate Western frontier, releases on PC this week. The game follows Harley Leger, a former boxer turned freelance writer, as she embarks on an unexpected adventure. Taking place in Vespuccia — an alternate history world in which the United States never declared independence from Great Britain — Rosewater shares the same universe as developer Francisco Gonzalez’s previous title, Lamplight City. Harley’s first assignment for the local newspaper becomes a thrilling treasure hunt to track down a missing man’s fortune. The richly crafted world is brimming with bandits, rebels, and the overarching mystery of the frontier.

The game is filled with dialogue-rich interactions that deepen relationships and influence the outcomes of Harley’s journey. The gameplay builds upon the classic point-and-click format ,while offering streamlined inventory management and multiple solutions to challenges, ensuring a fluid experience without the frustration of trial and error. With the backing of an impressive voice cast and over 60 characters to meet, Rosewater aims to deliver a captivating combination of exploration, storytelling, and dynamic character relationships, making it an intriguing title for fans of the genre.

by Jimmy Turner

Gordian Quest – March 27th (iOS, Android)

The deckbuilder RPG Gordian Quest is hitting iOS and Android this week, and I’m just surprised it hadn’t done so sooner. It’s been out for PC, PlayStation 5 and 4, and Nintendo Switch for a while now.

by Gio Castillo

I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream – March 27th (PS5, XSX, PS4, XB1, Switch)

If you’re thinking, “Help! I have no I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream, and I must scream,” you’ll be pleased to know this remastered adventure game based on the classic sci-fi novel by Harlan Ellison is coming this week to consoles, thanks to the preservation-minded folks at Nightdive Studios. It’s been on PC, macOS, Linux, and smartphones for a hot minute, but you won’t find me or anyone complaining about wider availability.

by Gio Castillo