To beat the game you’ll have to master 2D souls-like combat with the ever present threat of permadeath looming. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Roguelike, Rogue-lite, roguelike-like, rogueschmike! The world needs more of these and we'd like to present for your consideration, the RogueVANIA. This means an interconnected world that you unlock progressively through exploration and battling bosses, with death replacing backtracking. Each death will unlock more of the world and you’ll begin to understand the scale of the choices in front of you. Sick of the stinking sewers? Why not go over the ramparts? It’s your skill, playstyle and of course the loot you find that will determine your choice your path.

But don’t think this will be a walk in the park. Pattern based monsters, and demanding boss fights will force you to fight cautiously and build your strength. Every weapon has its own unique feel and rolling and dodging will become second nature as you learn to manage the mobs of monsters that will overwhelm the unprepared. Tough, but fair.

Tired of the violence and death? Explore a bit, take a stroll, enjoy the view from the ramparts, find a secret room. Thomas and Gwen, our graphic artists, never miss an opportunity to impress with their pixelart and shape a world that you’ll want to explore. You might even learn a little more about the lore of the place, who knows?

Motion Twin and Red Bull released a new tell-all, no-holds-barred video showcasing an honest and raw look at the cooperative studio, including revealing the first look at coming DLC set for later this spring.

The 18-year-old studio had been previously known for casual games in a free to play market, but facing potential creative boredom and a waning market, the collective embarked on development of a hardcore game, a complete pivot away from the studio’s history. For the first time on camera, they candidly discuss the decision process and the internal pressure involved in the development of Dead Cells.

Within the 12 minute video, fans can get a look at the first iteration of Dead Cells, which started as a “really boring” multiplayer strategy game. Forging ahead with a shift away from the initial strategy design idea, the company was left with 12 months of runway before they ran out of money.

Fans will be able to get the first playable hands on the game’s forthcoming DLC at PAX East next month.

Key Features:

• RogueVania: The progressive exploration of an interconnected world, with the replayability of a roguelike and the adrenaline pumping threat of permadeath.
• Souls-like combat: Pattern-based bosses and minions, weapons and spells with unique gameplay. Make do with what you have and don’t forget to roll.
• Nonlinear progression: Unlock new levels with every death and explore undiscovered parts of the castle as you prepare for the inevitable bosses.
• Exploration: Secret rooms, hidden passages, charming landscapes. Death is now your way of backtracking.

Dead Cells is currently available on Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One and PC for $/€24.99.