During the 42nd Golden Joystick Awards, where Black Myth: Wukong took home Game of the Year, a new game stole the spotlight. Polish studio Starward Industries, known for their debut title The Invincible, revealed their next project—Dante’s Ring. Unlike their first game, which was based on a classic sci-fi novel, this one features an entirely original setting.
What makes Dante’s Ring stand out is its unique approach to gameplay. It’s being called an “anti-combat” action RPG. Instead of battling enemies, players will focus on surviving harsh conditions, rescuing people, and making tough choices in the shadow of a raging volcano.
What is Dante’s Ring about?
Set in a volcanic zone, the game challenges players to fight against nature itself. The goal is survival—yours and others. Here’s how the developers describe it:
“The game focuses on rescue and survival, using retro equipment in a race against nature’s wrath among mystical beliefs. Will you fight a frenetic fire or flee from a pyroclastic flow? Break the door to rescue someone or stop and give first aid? Once the volcano’s hot breath reaches you, every second counts.”
It’s not just about saving lives. Dante’s Ring also features factions trying to survive. Players will need to navigate these groups and deal with their conflicts.
Key features of Dante’s Ring
Starward Industries has shared some exciting details about what players can expect:
- Explore and solve mysteries: Discover the secrets of the volcanic region known as the Ring of Fire.
- Retro equipment: Use old-school tools and inventions to survive fires and ash.
- Missions with choices: Prepare for missions in a central hub, choose your gear, and make decisions that change the story.
- Save lives: Rescue people and animals while facing dangerous obstacles and solving puzzles.
- Scavenge resources: Gather supplies from the ash-covered island using retro tools.
- Morality and factions: Make tough moral decisions and deal with survivor factions fighting for control.
A new twist on action RPGs
Unlike traditional action RPGs filled with combat, Dante’s Ring focuses on the emotional and physical challenges of surviving a natural disaster. The eerie, ash-covered world adds to the tension, making every decision feel important.
When can you play it?
Dante’s Ring will launch on Steam Early Access next year. A full release is planned for 2026.
Starward Industries is taking a bold step with Dante’s Ring. By focusing on survival and rescue instead of combat, it offers a fresh experience for gamers. Whether you’re solving puzzles, braving firestorms, or negotiating peace among factions, Dante’s Ring promises a unique journey. Will you rise to the challenge when nature fights back?
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