Statera Studio, the Brazilian team known for their work on the competitive fighter Pocket Bravery, has unveiled their next project: Garden Souls. The upcoming title is a 2D action roguelite that trades the traditional focus on loot for a combat system rooted in speed, style, and mechanical depth.
Quick Facts
- Platforms: Steam (Windows and Linux)
- Developer: Statera Studio
- Genre: 2D Action Roguelite
- Core Gameplay: Combo-focused combat with a cancel system
Combat Focused Roguelite Mechanics
Rather than relying on broad upgrades or gear-based progression, Garden Souls emphasizes skill-based play. Players control one of four Plant Princesses tasked with stopping a dark force known as Mandragora. The combat is designed to reward smart timing and technical execution, featuring a cancel system that allows players to seamlessly transition between attacks on the ground or in the air.
Each run presents a unique set of challenges through fresh, randomized biomes. As players progress, they can customize their build using six distinct powers that alter how their skills function. Additionally, players can recruit small allies called Bombogs, with "Strikers" available to be summoned during intense moments to turn the tide of battle.
Progression and Replayability
While the game follows the roguelite structure of procedural maps and high-stakes encounters, Statera Studio is incorporating persistent progression elements. Gains made during a run help tune each hero, ensuring that even failed attempts contribute to the player's long-term development. Because each of the four princesses features a unique move set, the developer aims to provide distinct gameplay experiences depending on which character is chosen and how their powers are configured.
Linux Support and Steam Availability
The developer has confirmed that Garden Souls is being built in Unity with a planned native version for Linux, offering a strong incentive for the platform's user base. The title is currently headed to Steam, though potential players should note that a release date has not yet been set, and no public demo has been confirmed.
Regarding the Steam Deck, the team has not yet released official testing results, meaning it remains unclear how the game will perform on the handheld. Frame rates, system requirements, and Proton compatibility have not been discussed at this stage of development.