I tried this intriguing mix of genres some time ago, and it definitely won me over, and just a few minutes ago again The Outer Zone, in collaboration with publisher 11 bit studios, has announced a closed playtest for its upcoming tactical deck-building game Death Howl.
The test is scheduled to run from November 7 through November 10, 2025, and will be available to selected participants on PC and Steam Deck via Steam.
Death Howl combines turn-based card mechanics with grid-based combat, framed within an atmospheric, myth-inspired narrative. Players take on the role of Ro, a hunter navigating a spirit world in pursuit of her deceased son.
The game incorporates deck construction, totem placement, and strategic positioning, drawing influence from the structure and difficulty of soulslike titles.
The playtest is designed to gather player feedback on several aspects of the game, including combat balance, card synergies, and overall pacing.
According to the developers, the version available during the test will feature most of the game’s content, offering over 20 hours of gameplay. Those interested in participating can request access directly through the game’s Steam store page.
Although a full release date has not yet been announced, the playtest is intended as a step toward refining the final product. It marks a key milestone for the development team, aiming to ensure a more polished experience at launch based on community input.
Death Howl is being developed with full support for Steam Deck, and the current build is expected to be compatible with Valve’s handheld platform throughout the test period.
