Swap between DAWN and SHADE forms to unleash devastating abilities, wield Instruments as weapons, and rewrite reality itself in a world on the brink of annihilation by the SHADE Protocol.

Set in a dying world overtaken by Elythium, a sentient metal that has turned against the world, players assume the role of Zura, a prototype Replica that can recompile reality. As the last hope for humanity and free-willed machines, she must navigate the ruins of civilization, master lost technologies, and defy an enemy that has rewritten the fabric of existence itself.

Seamlessly switch between DAWN and SHADE modes, altering combat styles and gameplay dynamics. Wield Instruments, powerful code-based weaponry inspired by music, each serving a unique role in battle and exploration. Engage in high-speed, skill-based combat, parrying and countering enemies in a world that demands mastery. Explore vast, interconnected Bastions, where every discovery alters the fate of the war between SHADEs and Xaviors, and the all-consuming SHADE Protocol.

The war is lost. The song is rewritten. Will you take the stage?

Radical Fish Games and Little Legendary are excited to announce a new collaboration between CrossCode, Alabaster Dawn, and Shade Protocol.

The collaboration brings together three fast-paced, pixel-art action RPG worlds known for stylish combat, expressive characters, and a deep love for strange, spectacular worlds. Fans can get their first look at the collaboration in the reveal video, which will debut alongside the announcement.

The reveal also arrives shortly before Shade Protocol’s Kickstarter campaign launches on June 4, 2026, giving players a first look at one of the collaborations and surprises planned around the game’s upcoming community campaign.

“CrossCode and Alabaster Dawn represent so much of what we love about indie games: depth, charm, mechanical creativity, and a clear artistic identity,” said Kendall Quinones, Game Director at Little Legendary. “To have SHADE Protocol connected to those worlds in any way is incredibly meaningful for us. We are huge fans of Radical Fish Games, and we cannot wait for players to see what we have been working on together.”

The above reveal video offers a first glimpse at how the collaboration connects the games, with more details to be shared following the announcement.

Key Features:

• UNISON System – Rewrite Reality – The world of SHADE Protocol exists as code. Wield it to manipulate events, relive key moments, and choose their ultimate outcome, shaping the fate of entire factions.
• Dynamic Combat System – Mix precision melee combat with specialized Instruments, executing devastating combos, parries, and counters. Swap between DAWN and SHADE modes to adapt to different playstyles in real-time.
• Unique Defensive Mechanics – Perfectly timed parries and counters restore Echo, a vital energy source for powerful Instrument attacks and defensive maneuvers.
• Instruments – Weapons That Sing – Wield an arsenal of musical weapons, including the Twilight Spear, Sunrise Great Axe, and Midnight Chakram, each with distinct combat and exploration abilities.

Shade Protocol is coming to PC (Steam) in 2026.