Indiedev Shadow Layer Games has officially announced the release of a full remake of its cult classic RPG, Breath of Death VII: The Beginning. Originally a hit on Xbox 360 over a decade ago, the newly reimagined version, Breath of Death VII: The Beginning Reanimated, will launch on December 12, 2024, on PC via Steam. Priced at just $5 (or equivalent worldwide), the game promises to deliver an expansive and refined RPG experience for both nostalgic fans and new players alike.
A Modern Makeover of a Beloved Classic
The original Breath of Death VII debuted in 2010 as a standout title on Xbox Live Indie Games, celebrated for its streamlined mechanics, innovative battle systems, and sharp, humorous narrative. Shadow Layer Games’ founder, Bill Stiernberg, described the remake as a “complete, ground-up reimagining” designed to elevate everything fans loved about the original.
In Reanimated, players can expect an enhanced 16-bit art style, a brand-new soundtrack composed by HyperDuck SoundWorks (Cosmic Star Heroine, Dust: An Elysian Tail), and a host of gameplay improvements. From updated controls to quality-of-life enhancements, the remake aims to create a polished experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The Undead Adventure Returns
The story remains as endearingly undead as ever. Players will follow the skeletal knight Dem and his team of spectral companions, including Sara the ghost historian, Lita the vampire techie, and Erik the zombie prince. Together, they navigate a post-apocalyptic world populated by undead civilizations, uncovering the mystery behind a monstrous invasion threatening their fragile society.
Packed with comedic charm and quirky character interactions, the narrative balances light-hearted humor with engaging gameplay. As Dem and his team work to banish monsters and bring peace to the undead world, players will encounter unique twists in the story that further enrich the experience.
New Features
Shadow Layer Games has packed Reanimated with updates and new content to keep fans engaged, including:
- Visual Overhaul: All-new 16-bit-style graphics with vibrant animations and enhanced effects.
- Streamlined Gameplay: Fast-paced, turn-based combat with refined mechanics and combo systems to keep battles dynamic and accessible.
- Uniting Techniques: Unique collaborative attacks that combine abilities from multiple characters.
- Fresh Game Modes: Including the challenging Hard+ Mode and the quirky Dragonduck Mode, which tasks players with a retro-styled quest filled with strategic puzzles and dangerous enemies.
- Soundtrack: A fully remastered, high-quality score by HyperDuck SoundWorks, capturing the spirit of classic RPGs.
About Shadow Layer Games
Shadow Layer Games is a newly formed indie studio founded by Bill Stiernberg, previously co-founder of Zeboyd Games, known for titles like Cosmic Star Heroine and This Way Madness Lies. With Breath of Death VII: The Beginning Reanimated, Stiernberg aims to honor his RPG roots while expanding into new creative territories.
