High-speed tactics meet sci-fi survival in HandyGames’ newest release.
Orangepixel has released Space Grunts: Chrono Shard, a new turn-based roguelike that mixes tactical decision-making with the pace of an arcade shooter.
Published by HandyGames, the game is available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store for $15.99 or €14.99. A 20 percent launch discount is currently active, with the Steam promotion ending on July 6.
Chrono Shard returns to the science fiction setting of the Space Grunts series, where an intelligent substance known as the Ooze has begun spreading across the galaxy through a network of hijacked HyperGates.
Players control a member of an elite tactical unit sent into isolated time bubbles surrounding infected space stations and moon bases. Each mission takes place across a procedurally generated layout filled with enemies, environmental hazards, loot, and routes leading toward the local HyperGate.
Movement, shooting, item use, and enemy reactions unfold in quick succession, encouraging players to make decisions without spending long periods inside menus.
Weapon behavior also affects positioning. Different firing patterns and explosive shockwaves can push enemies into traps, move them away from important areas, or open a path through a crowded room.
The central mechanic is the Chrono Loop. The Chrono Shard allows players to reset the current timeline while preserving selected changes made during the previous attempt. Items placed in the environment remain where they were left, while traps and other battlefield modifications can be prepared for a future run.
This means a failed mission can still produce something useful. Players may leave equipment behind, reshape part of the map, and return with a better plan during the next loop.
Character development comes through three core skill categories that eventually open nine specialized subclasses. The available paths include Sniper, Assassin, Hitman, Hardened, Elite, Engineer, Gadget, Gearhead, and Veteran. Each branch changes the advantages available to the current grunt, giving players room to build around direct damage, technology, equipment, or survivability.
Crafting also plays a major part in preparing for later missions. Workstations allow players to dismantle unwanted loot, gather usable materials, and improve their weapons.
Combined with the persistent time-loop system, this creates a progression structure where resources, positioning, character skills, and knowledge gained from earlier attempts all contribute to the next operation.
Orangepixel and HandyGames are also preparing versions for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. Release dates for those editions have not yet been announced. A playable PC demo remains available through Steam.
