The gaming community is buzzing about Wartorn, a new title that mixes the strategic depth of real-time strategy (RTS) games like Warcraft and StarCraft with the unpredictable twists of roguelike gameplay. Developed by Stray Kite Studios, this game has caught the attention of strategy fans since its announcement in early 2025.
Wartorn offers a fresh take on similar genres. The game blends squad combat and exploration, all packed into a single-player adventure. If you enjoy staying up to date on the latest gaming news, you might want to explore our News section for more of the latest gaming trends.
Wartorn puts players in charge of squads in quick tactical RTS battles. Unlike traditional RTS games, there’s no base building in this one. Just pure focus on managing your units and making smart moves. The game’s elemental system is a highlight that lets players use fire, water, tar, plants, and lightning in a variety of ways.
You could douse a fire with water or spread it with tar, changing the battlefield on the fly. A caravan system, inspired by the Oregon Trail, adds a layer of choice as you guide your squad through the Isles of Talaur, facing events like merchant stops or ambushes. Curious about how it plays? Check out this Game Informer preview for more details.
The minds behind Wartorn come from Stray Kite Studios, led by Paul Hellquist, a veteran designer known for Bioshock and Borderlands. The team also includes folks who worked on Age of Empires, bringing serious strategy game experience to the table. Their background shows in Wartorn’s design. It feels both nostalgic and new. They are also big on listening to players, using feedback to refine the game as it develops. You can read more about their approach in this PC Gamer article.
Wartorn isn’t just about battles. It has a pretty cool story that pulls you in. You play as sisters Yara and Elani, who are traveling across the war-decimated Isles of Talaur. They travel to reach their family’s fortress in Beynun, and their mission is personal. Yara and Elani must reunite their family in a dangerous world. The setting is packed with fantasy lore. From strange creatures to rival factions. This gives the game a rich backdrop. Want a peek at the world? Watch the official reveal trailer to see it in action.
Wartorn is gearing up for an Early Access launch on Steam and the Epic Games Set to release on June 17, 2025. This early phase lets players jump in to try it out to help shape its future with feedback. It’s already confirmed for Steam Deck, with controller support coming, though a mouse and keyboard are suggested for the overworld map. Right now, it’s PC-only, but the developers have hinted at possible console versions later on.
Wartorn stands out with its mix of RTS tactics, roguelike replayability, and a heartfelt story. The squad-based battles, elemental system, and exploration choices make it a game to watch. As its Early Access debut nears, the hype is real for strategy fans. Keep up with the latest on Wartorn and more by visiting Total Apex Gaming’s news section.
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