Solo Developer SOONG Launches Roguelike Deckbuilder Deckbane on Steam

Solo developer SOONG has officially launched his debut game, Deckbane, on Steam. This roguelike deckbuilder introduces a unique fusion of poker mechanics and strategic combat, drawing inspiration from acclaimed titles such as Wildfrost and Balatro.

SOONG, an engineer by trade, embarked on the game’s development as a personal artistic endeavor. Recognizing a stylistic kinship with Wildfrost's visuals, he rekindled a childhood passion for drawing. Despite initial hesitations about creating art for an entire game, he persevered, developing the visual assets and mechanics over approximately one year and two months—a journey he describes as a period of significant personal growth and self-improvement.

Deckbane’s core gameplay loop involves players collecting distinct Treasures, forming alliances with pet partners, and modifying poker cards to construct a unique deck. These custom decks are then put to the test in combat against various enemies, requiring careful strategy and resource management.

While taking cues from established games in the genre, Deckbane introduces several key differences. Unlike Wildfrost’s counter system for hero attacks, SOONG’s creation grants Morale to heroes by playing specific poker hands, directly triggering their offensive actions. Furthermore, the game’s 'Treasures' mechanic offers greater versatility compared to Balatro's fixed 'Jokers'; Treasures can either be placed in dedicated slots or played directly with a hand to activate their effects on the fly.

Deckbane is now available for purchase on Steam, marking a significant milestone for SOONG's transition into game development. Players interested in a fresh take on the roguelike deckbuilding genre, particularly those who appreciate unique card-based combat and a distinct art style, can find the game on its official store page.