Lately, a wave of RPGs has been launching with playable demos, giving players plenty of options to explore. Since it’s the weekend, I thought it’d be helpful to highlight a few noteworthy titles in case any slipped under your radar.
A few days ago, we kicked off a new feature dedicated to the Demo Club, a recurring event on our server in collaboration with the #TurnBasedThursday team. Each month, we select specific titles for the community to play, share feedback, and contribute to their development with constructive insights.
Today, though, I just want to highlight some of the newest demos that have recently dropped. I’ve already had the chance to try a few, while others are on my list to check out soon.
Flint: Treasure of the Oblivion
- Developer: Savage Level
- Release Date: 17 Dec, 2024
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Let’s start with an isometric RPG that, after multiple delays, finally launched on PC and consoles at the end of 2024. I’m talking about Flint: Treasure of the Oblivion, a pirate-themed adventure. While reviews haven’t been particularly glowing, it still stands out in a genre beloved by RPG fans—and let’s be honest, a good pirate setting always has its charm. Just a few days ago, a demo was released, offering a taste of the game world and its dice-driven combat system, where luck and strategy go hand in hand.
Dunebound Tactics
- Developer: Terahard ltd.
- Release Date: TBA
- Platforms: PC
Shifting from Caribbean shores to vast desert landscapes is easy thanks to another promising roguelite RPG: Dunebound Tactics. Here, players will navigate endless barren dunes aboard their ship, exploring wrecks, abandoned structures, and facing off against both ruthless bandits and a not-so-friendly federation.
What sets this game apart is its unique progression system—every failed expedition leaves a lasting impact on future runs. Survivors from past failures can be recruited into your crew, and lost gear may resurface, giving each playthrough an evolving sense of continuity and adaptation.
As for the combat system, Dunebound Tactics features a grid-based battlefield where terrain plays a crucial role. Players can alter or even destroy the environment, as well as create new barriers using the mysterious power of Elios. This adds a layer of tactical depth, encouraging strategic positioning and adaptability in every encounter.
There’s no official release date yet, but the demo offers several hours of gameplay, giving players a solid preview of its mechanics and world.
THYSIASTERY
- Developer: DIRGA
- Release Date: Q2 2025
- Platforms: PC
Another intriguing title worth mentioning is THYSIASTERY, a dungeon-crawling RPG that blends traditional roguelike mechanics with a deep combat system. The game follows a group of “Bearers of the Brand” as they navigate a mysterious Labyrinth filled with secrets, hidden chambers, and deadly encounters.
Players will recruit allies, uncover lost histories, and attempt to escape—if their sanity holds. With permadeath, procedurally generated environments, and a unique skill-learning system, THYSIASTERY offers a challenging and immersive experience that could be a great addition to your weekend gaming lineup.
Lost In Prayer
- Developer: Nine Dots Studio
- Release Date: Q2 2025
- Platforms: PC
Sticking with the traditional roguelike theme, another game worth checking out is Lost in Prayer. This RPG pits players against the forces of Heaven and Hell, embodied by an entity capable of taking the form of any creature in the game.
The concept is refreshingly unique—each run begins with a different character, complete with their own skills and abilities, adding immense replayability. Just yesterday, the demo received a full update, giving players an improved look at its mechanics. The full release is planned for Q2 2025 on PC.
Dead Underworld
- Developer: Manmachina, juicy.games
- Release Date: TBA
- Platforms: PC
Now, let’s talk about one of the most promising titles on this list—at least in my opinion, after trying it firsthand. Dead Underworld is an RPG that blends exploration mechanics reminiscent of Heroes of Might and Magic—or at the very least, it will certainly give you that vibe—while ultimately focusing on survival mechanics that heavily influence character progression and the optional companion you can recruit.
Character stats play a crucial role, acting as multipliers for various exploration mechanics and combat encounters. The battle system requires tactical switching between the frontline and rear-guard characters. With a vast array of items, equipment, and unlockable characters, Dead Underworld is definitely a title to try out and keep an eye on.
Aethermancer
- Developer: moi rai games
- Release Date: TBA
- Platforms: PC
And to wrap things up, here’s one of the most promising titles on this list for multiple reasons. First, I have a personal soft spot for pixel art, and Aethermancer absolutely nails it with top-tier visuals. Second, it’s developed by the same team behind Monster Sanctuary, meaning we’re likely in for something truly special.
This Monster Taming RPG features a wide variety of creatures to bring into battle, roguelite mechanics tied to reviving fallen monsters, and a deep combat system with intriguing strategic layers. There’s also something interesting going on with the exploration mechanics. No release date has been announced yet, but the demo is available now—so go check it out.
That’s it for my weekly recommendations! With Steam Next Fest coming up in February, there will be plenty more to discover in the days ahead. If you’ve tried something interesting and want to share your thoughts, feel free to reach out via social media (mostly X and Bluesky) or join the Discord server. Ciao
