Guard Break Opens Playtest, Channels the Soul of Classic 3D JRPGs
Sudden Kebab Studios has officially launched a Steam playtest for Guard Break, their upcoming indie RPG that pays direct homage to the golden age of late ’90s 3D JRPGs. Featuring a rich fantasy world, a party of diverse protagonists, and fast-paced turn-based battles, Guard Break aims to deliver a focused 10–12 hour narrative campaign with zero filler and plenty of nostalgic flair.
Set in the Kingdom of Arcadia, the story unfolds as a weakening monarchy faces a growing threat from a terrorist group known as Chimera. Players will command a rotating cast of Arcadian agents, each bringing distinct weapons, skills, and personal storylines. Guard Break combat mechanic encourages targeting of enemy weaknesses, while visible field encounters and a branching relationship system add depth without bogging things down.
The open playtest—now live on Steam—offers roughly the first hour of the game, giving early players a chance to shape the experience with feedback on pacing and mechanics. Guard Break has no official release date yet. Below is an overview, screens and trailer.
About This Game
Under the reign of King Augustus, the mighty Kingdom of Arcadia long stood tall. But as the king’s strength wanes and his son steps forward, a mysterious terrorist group named Chimera hatches a dangerous plan.
Play as a team of Arcadian agents and allies, each with unique stories, strengths, and struggles, as they uncover Chimera’s motives and fight to defend the realm from a looming threat.
Key Features:
- Classic JRPG Atmosphere: A homage to 32-bit JRPGs of the late 1990s, featuring visuals and music inspired by the era.
- 10-12 Hour Campaign: A story-driven adventure without filler, delivering a well-paced plot designed to keep you engaged from start to finish.
- Multiple Protagonists: No single ‘main character’. Experience the story through an ensemble cast, each with unique backgrounds, skills, weapon types, and personal arcs.
- Bond System: All the protagonists have interwoven relationship bonds that shift based on your dialogue choices. Favouring one ally may disappoint another, creating a careful balancing act. Stronger bonds yield extra combat perks.
- Visible Encounters: No random battles- spot enemies on the field and choose when to engage. Battles feature fast, turn-based combat with a clear move queue for strategic planning.
- Guard Break Mechanic: Enemies have points tied to specific weaknesses- focus on those to ‘Guard Break’ them, leaving them vulnerable for the rest of the battle.
