CrossCode (2018) [Best games by Deck13]

Chained Echoes (2022)

*Chained Echoes* plunges players into the expansive continent of Valandis, a land fractured by a generations-long war between its three kingdoms. This story-driven JRPG casts you as part of a band of heroes embarking on an epic quest to forge peace. Your journey will traverse a breathtaking variety of environments, from windswept plateaus and vibrant archipelagos to the eerie depths of sunken cities and the shadowed corridors of forgotten dungeons. Master a blend of swordplay, magic, and the power of piloted mechs as you confront formidable foes in fast-paced, turn-based battles. With no random encounters, every enemy sighting is an opportunity for strategic engagement, encouraging players to explore and strategize within its charmingly depicted 16-bit SNES-inspired world where dragons and mechs coexist. This title exemplifies Deck13's commitment to delivering engaging narrative experiences and deep gameplay systems. *Chained Echoes*' blend of classic JRPG mechanics with innovative features like visible enemies, extensive customization through a complex skill and equipment system, and the ability to pilot mechs or explore on foot, showcases the developer's knack for modernizing beloved genres. The inclusion of a personalizable airship further adds to the sense of player agency and exploration, making *Chained Echoes* a standout entry that aligns perfectly with Deck13's pedigree for crafting immersive and rewarding adventures. Its roughly 30-40 hours of playtime, PSX-inspired soundtrack, and a world brimming with memorable characters and challenging encounters solidify its place as a must-play title.

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Drova - Forsaken Kin (2024)

Drova - Forsaken Kin (2024) plunges players into a pixel art Action-RPG where the desolate atmosphere of grim dark classics meets the ethereal magic of Celtic lore. This meticulously crafted open world is not static; it bends and reshapes itself under the weight of your decisions. A society's hubristic discovery of an ancient empire's secret – the ability to subjugate nature spirits – has fractured their world, igniting the wrath of the uncaptured entities. You are an unknown, beginning with nothing, tasked with forging your identity amidst treacherous terrains. Mastering the fluid combat, utilizing an array of weapons and combos, is paramount to survival as you study your surroundings, decipher environmental cues to unravel mysteries, and grow in power. This title embodies the spirit of games Deck13 is known for, particularly in its emphasis on player agency and challenging combat systems. The narrative unfolds dynamically, shaped by your dialogue choices and actions, mirroring Deck13's penchant for meaningful player impact. Choosing between the Sheep and the Shepherd, aligning with one of two distinct factions, irrevocably alters the game's trajectory and the fate of the world. Cultivating your playstyle through learning numerous abilities, navigating treacherous social dynamics of teachers and betrayals, and ultimately learning to harness or battle the very spirits that govern nature showcases a depth that aligns perfectly with Deck13's legacy of engaging, lore-rich RPG experiences.

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Highrise City (2023)

Highrise City (2023) reinvents the city simulation genre by deeply integrating complex economic principles with traditional city building. Developed over nine years as a passion project, this game challenges players to meticulously manage production chains and resource flow to foster the growth of an ever-expanding metropolis. Unlike typical city builders, it leans heavily into economy simulation, demanding strategic planning to balance supply and demand, ensuring your burgeoning city can support tens of millions of inhabitants across vast, geographically inspired maps. With an extensive array of buildings, resources, and vehicles, and the ability to research technologies and enact laws, Highrise City provides the tools to construct and govern a truly monumental urban landscape. The game's strength lies in its deep simulation and player agency. Beyond the core building and economic management, Highrise City offers a unique sense of accomplishment through its visual representation of a living, breathing city, complete with intricate micro-animations and a staggering number of simulated citizens and vehicles. Furthermore, its robust mod support, including an integrated building editor and Steam Workshop compatibility, empowers players to customize their experience extensively, from designing unique skyscrapers to altering core game mechanics. This dedication to player creativity and a rich, engaging simulation experience makes Highrise City a noteworthy contender within the simulation and strategy game landscape.

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Rising Lords (2024)

Rising Lords is a captivating medieval strategy experience that masterfully blends turn-based combat with the strategic depth of card and board games. Players are thrust into the role of a feudal lord, tasked with managing their fledgling realm. This involves more than just military might; you'll dictate the fate of your serfs, from sending them to war to ensuring their prosperity. Resource management is paramount, with the need to collect taxes, oversee production, and set rations, all while building fortified cities and forging powerful armies. The game emphasizes tactical decision-making, with a unique card-based skill system that can turn the tide of even the most perilous battles, all presented in engaging grid-based encounters. Be mindful, for the seeds of rebellion are ever-present, and a single unlucky event card can shatter your dominion. This title feels right at home on a list of Deck13's best for its meticulous attention to strategic simulation and player agency. Much like their other acclaimed titles that offer deep systems and replayability, Rising Lords allows players to carve their own path, whether through careful diplomacy, cunning military campaigns, or even betrayal. The inclusion of a robust multiplayer mode, allowing up to four players to engage in simultaneous turns, further cements its appeal for fans of competitive and collaborative strategy. With extensive modding support offering near-limitless customization and new content, Rising Lords provides an enduring strategic challenge that rewards foresight and adaptability, hallmarks of Deck13's commitment to immersive gameplay.

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Venetica - Gold Edition (2015)

Venture into the opulent yet perilous city of Venice in *Venetica - Gold Edition (2015)*, a visually stunning action RPG that plunges you into a world teetering on the brink of eternal night. You play as Scarlett, a young woman thrust into a terrifying destiny after the murder of her beloved. Discovering she is the daughter of Death incarnate, Scarlett inherits formidable powers, becoming the only hope to combat a cabal of necromancers led by the power-hungry Victor, who has usurped the title of Death. Armed with supernatural abilities and facing relentless, nightmarish foes, you will explore a dynamic Venice, uncovering its secrets and forging alliances to prevent global annihilation. *Venetica* stands out in Deck13's catalog for its ambitious blend of dark fantasy, engaging narrative, and open-world exploration. The Gold Edition offers an enhanced experience, building upon the studio's knack for crafting atmospheric environments and compelling player-driven progression. The game masterfully allows players to wield the powers of the "Twilight World," bridging the gap between life and death, and masterfully integrates intuitive combat with a rich lore. Its narrative, centering on a chosen hero grappling with immense power and personal loss, showcases Deck13's strength in creating memorable characters and epic quests, making it a prime example of their early RPG prowess.

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WARTILE (2018)

Wartile plunges you into a vibrant, miniature world where handcrafted dioramas, inspired by Norse mythology, serve as your battlegrounds. This isn't your typical turn-based strategy; Wartile employs a cool-down combat system that keeps the action dynamic while still offering ample room for thoughtful tactical decisions. Slow Time abilities empower you to manipulate the pace of battle, granting crucial advantages in high-stakes moments. As you embark on quests, you'll collect and upgrade a diverse array of figurines, customizing their gear and abilities to craft your ultimate Warband and devise strategic decks of Battle Cards for each encounter. Deck13's expertise in creating engaging, genre-bending experiences is evident in Wartile. While known for their action RPGs, their ability to translate intricate strategy and satisfying combat loops into a compelling, accessible package shines through here. Wartile exemplifies Deck13's knack for blending familiar mechanics with fresh ideas, offering a unique tabletop-inspired adventure that rewards clever positioning and tactical foresight, making it a fitting addition to their curated list of outstanding titles.

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The Shattering (2020)

Step into the disorienting reality of John Evans in "The Shattering," a profound psychological thriller that plunges you into the depths of a fractured mind. Stripped of all memory, your sole companion is a disembodied voice, the Doctor, who guides you through a landscape of pure white, punctuated by the unnerving swing of a pocket watch. As you grapple with the immediate void, the voice poses a chilling question: "how come you can’t even remember her name?" This question ignites your journey to reconstruct John's shattered past, where the line between authentic recollection and fabricated solace blurs. The game masterfully explores the mind's defense mechanisms, weaving a narrative where fabricated memories may offer a fragile shield against unbearable truths, urging you to uncover what truly transpired. Deck13's "The Shattering" stands out as a testament to their evolving capabilities, showcasing a commitment to narrative depth and atmospheric immersion. While known for more action-oriented titles, this foray into a first-person, story-driven experience reveals a remarkable versatility. The game's defining features – dynamic, pristine white environments, a deeply emotional soundtrack, and an intricate story split into four acts – create an original and captivating aesthetic that prioritizes player submersion over complex mechanics. The absence of failure conditions and puzzles allows players to fully engage with John's mental landscape, experiencing the emotional resonance of his journey firsthand. This dedication to a pure, unadulterated storytelling experience, crafted by a passionate indie team, positions "The Shattering" as a significant and memorable entry in Deck13's diverse portfolio.

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Black Sails - The Ghost Ship (2015)

Plunge into the chilling depths of *Black Sails - The Ghost Ship*, a point-and-click adventure that thrives in the dark with the volume cranked high. This is no ordinary nautical tale; it's a descent into the macabre, beginning with two desperate survivors adrift after a shipwreck. Their faint hope of rescue materializes as a spectral ship, an enigma that offers either salvation or damnation. As they board the silent vessel, the line between reality and hallucination blurs, mirroring a true story that probes the darkest corners of the human psyche. Originally lauded in Germany for its compelling narrative and intricate plot, *Black Sails* now graces English speakers with its full localization for the very first time, complete with atmospheric English speech and text. Deck13's signature touch is evident in *Black Sails*' commitment to a dense, unsettling atmosphere and a meticulously crafted mystery. The game allows for free exploration of the haunting sailing ship, focusing intently on the intertwined fates of its protagonists, Anna and Lex. Players will navigate through disturbing dream sequences where their choices ripple outwards, influencing the characters' bond and ultimately shaping the game's outcome. While retaining classic point-and-click mechanics and a helpful hint system, *Black Sails* eschews over-simplification, demanding player engagement with its unnerving soundtrack and the profoundly disquieting journey it offers.

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The Shape Of Heart (2016)

"The Shape of Heart (2016)" is a captivating storytelling puzzle game designed to jolt players out of life's monotony. Its core gameplay revolves around intricate fluid physics puzzles, where players manipulate liquids to navigate levels and unlock pathways. As you progress, a poignant memoir unfolds, drawing you back to the innocence of childhood. The game weaves together personal reflections on dreams, growth, and the struggles with stress through a unique diary system. Accompanied by evocative background music and soundscapes, the experience is deeply immersive, transporting players through a tapestry of cherished memories. Expect delightful Easter eggs honoring classic games, adding layers of nostalgia to your journey. This title is a strong contender for any "Best Games by Deck13" list due to its indie spirit and ambitious narrative delivery. Deck13 is known for taking creative risks, and "The Shape of Heart" exemplifies this with its episodic structure and focus on emotional resonance over pure challenge. The game’s commitment to exploring mature themes through relatable, everyday struggles, framed by the metaphor of fluid physics, showcases a developer willing to push boundaries. Furthermore, its unique pricing model, releasing in episodes to make it more accessible, aligns with the studio's aim to support and grow alongside its player base, fostering a direct connection between developers and the community.

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Obliteracers (2016)

Obliteracers (2016) is an award-winning, same-screen party racing experience designed for up to sixteen players. Players will engage in frantic, round-based combat, piloting physics-based vehicles and utilizing weapon powerups to obliterate their opponents across a variety of exotic alien planets. This title truly shines as a local multiplayer champion, ingeniously supporting spare gamepads, laptops, and smart devices as additional controllers, making it incredibly accessible for large groups. Its blend of brutal-cute alien aesthetics, vibrant locations, and absurd powerups creates addictive racing mayhem suitable for all ages. Deck13's portfolio often highlights games that excel in cooperative or competitive local multiplayer, pushing the boundaries of accessibility and social gaming. Obliteracers (2016) perfectly embodies this ethos. Its ability to accommodate an astonishing sixteen players on a single screen, through the innovative use of various input devices, makes it a standout choice for parties and gatherings. The game’s focus on accessible controls for beginners while offering depth for seasoned players, combined with its round-based combat that facilitates quick restarts and drop-in/drop-out play, solidifies its position as a quintessential Deck13 party title, encouraging chaotic fun and friendly competition.

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Holomento (2022)

Holomento is a unique permadeath action-RPG where players embody a Traveler tasked with traversing and rebuilding the cursed Eventide Hollow. Bound by the mysterious Holomento, each Traveler's soul is absorbed upon death, with the book resetting to await the next hero. This cyclical nature allows players to forge a continuous narrative across generations, uncovering secrets, opening shortcuts, and restoring the fallen land. The game encourages ambitious endeavors, from revitalizing dilapidated towns and shops to investing in the surprisingly robust Stonk Market, offering a blend of altruism and personal gain. The dangerous journey is fraught with diverse enemies, but Travelers are equipped with a vast arsenal ranging from traditional blades and bows to unconventional handguns and grenade launchers, further enhanced by hundreds of upgradeable items and potent skill-based combat. This indie gem earns its place among Deck13's best due to its innovative permadeath mechanic, which fosters a profound sense of legacy and consequence, truly making each playthrough a building block for the next. The compelling loop of exploration, combat, and gradual restoration of Eventide Hollow provides a deeply rewarding experience. Holomento’s embrace of varied weaponry and a surprising economic simulation within its dark fantasy setting showcases a bold and creative vision that aligns perfectly with Deck13's reputation for supporting distinctive and engaging gameplay experiences. The title offers a rich tapestry of action, RPG progression, and emergent storytelling that resonates with players seeking a challenging yet ultimately hopeful adventure.

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Ankh - Anniversary Edition (2015)

Step into the shimmering sands of ancient Egypt with the Ankh - Anniversary Edition (2015), a lovingly remastered comic adventure that invites you to join Assil and his eccentric band of companions. What begins as a rollicking celebration within a pharaoh's pyramid quickly devolves into chaos thanks to a comical mishap, unleashing a potent curse and revealing a powerful amulet. As Assil, you'll be drawn into the rich tapestry of Ankh's world, traversing the bustling souks of Cairo and the serene banks of the Nile, all while evading a furious Osiris on your quest to meet the Pharaoh himself. This edition boasts over 45 unique comic characters, more than 80 engaging puzzles, and stunning state-of-the-art 3D graphics brought to life with breathtaking cinematics and dazzling Egyptian landscapes. Deck13's signature blend of humor, intricate puzzles, and captivating narratives shines through in Ankh. Their knack for crafting memorable characters and immersing players in vibrant, often quirky worlds is a hallmark of their design philosophy, making this anniversary release a perfect testament to their enduring legacy and a prime example of why Ankh consistently finds its place among their best work.

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Resolutiion (2020)

Resolutiion (2020) thrusts players into a mind-bending, cyberpunk dreamscape where an aging killer guides a burgeoning AI through relentless combat, cryptic puzzles, and unnerving tranquility. This frantic action-adventure, born from the minds of two disgruntled German siblings and their motley crew, pulsates with vibrant pixels, sharp wit, profound concepts, and a soundtrack that's both emotionally resonant and unapologetically badass. Expect a roughly 20-hour journey packed with challenging battles, satisfying exploration, and a narrative woven with layers of intrigue. In the sprawling Infinite Empire, appearances are deceiving, and the player must navigate a fragmented future, collecting peculiar armaments and fragmented tales to unearth a past scarred by betrayal, shattered families, and warring civilizations. This title finds a natural home among Deck13's celebrated works due to its ambitious narrative, challenging gameplay, and distinct artistic vision. Much like Deck13's signature style, Resolutiion embraces complex themes and presents players with morally ambiguous choices, forcing them to question their own role in the unfolding events. The game's blend of fast-paced action, rewarding exploration, and a deeply atmospheric world, populated by a diverse cast of characters from cynical deities to sentient machines and even the occasional feline, echoes the depth and polish often found in Deck13's most acclaimed titles. The focus on player agency and the drive to unravel intricate mysteries are hallmarks that align perfectly with the studio's established strengths, making Resolutiion a compelling addition to any list of their finest offerings.

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Faraday Protocol (2021)

Faraday Protocol plunges players into the role of Raug Zeekon, an interstellar archaeologist tasked with investigating a cryptic signal emanating from an uncharted star. Upon arriving at the abandoned space station OPIS, you discover the Bia Tool, an ancient alien artifact. This relic's ability to absorb and redirect energy becomes your primary means of interacting with the environment, forcing you to solve increasingly complex puzzles by powering machinery and unlocking the secrets of the station. Guided by IRIS, a mysterious AI guarding the seemingly ancient structures, you'll delve deeper into the purpose and creators of this enigmatic facility, constantly testing your problem-solving skills and critical thinking. This game earns its place among Deck 13's best for its intelligent puzzle design and compelling atmosphere, offering a satisfying challenge for players who enjoy intricate mechanics and a rich sci-fi narrative. The unique blend of retrofuturism, coupled with the engaging gameplay loop centered around the Bia Tool's energy manipulation, provides a distinct experience. Faraday Protocol showcases Deck 13's ability to craft engaging first-person adventures that emphasize player intellect and exploration, making it a standout title within their catalog for those seeking a cerebral and immersive journey.

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To Hell with Hell (2020)

In "To Hell with Hell," the apocalypse has not only arrived, but you're immediately thrust into its fiery depths. Asmodius, the ruler of hell himself, requires your assistance after being imprisoned by his rivals, making the only logical course of action a defiant cry: "To hell with hell!" This classic bullet hell rogue-like crawler throws you, Asmodius's last loyal follower, into an uphill battle against a relentless onslaught of gruesome creatures and deadly traps. Prepare for a chaotic journey filled with unicorns, bananas, and an army of mad demonic enemies. Deck13's portfolio often showcases their knack for accessible yet challenging action RPGs, and "To Hell with Hell" fits right in. While the studio is renowned for its Souls-like combat, this title embraces a more arcade-like intensity with its bullet hell mechanics and rogue-like progression. The game offers remarkable player agency through its mask system, allowing you to transform into various characters like a Knight, Demon, or Clown, each with unique skills that can be combined to suit your playstyle. Coupled with a diverse arsenal of weapons, from swords to shotguns, and the promise of exploring beyond hell's inferno into frozen landscapes, "To Hell with Hell" represents Deck13's willingness to experiment within the action genre, delivering a distinct and memorable experience that justifies its inclusion among their best offerings.

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Super Sky Arena (2015)

Super Sky Arena offers a thrilling, modern take on classic Starfox-style aerial combat. Engage in lightning-fast dogfights against up to three friends, utilizing quick reflexes, strategic maneuvers, and potent weaponry to emerge victorious. Whether you prefer the intimacy of local splitscreen play or the global reach of online matches, Super Sky Arena connects you with your pals, no matter the distance. If your friends aren't available, hone your skills against challenging AI opponents, preparing you for any future aerial confrontation. The developers are committed to crafting the definitive multiplayer experience, featuring a diverse range of gameplay modes including local, online, and bot matches, with "couch vs. couch" online splitscreen currently in development. This game merits a spot on any "Best games by Deck 13" list due to its successful revitalization of a beloved gameplay concept. Deck 13 has a history of creating engaging and polished experiences, and Super Sky Arena exemplifies this with its blend of retro inspiration and modern execution. The emphasis on fast-paced, accessible multiplayer combat, coupled with the promise of innovative future modes like online splitscreen, showcases the studio's dedication to player enjoyment and community. The energetic, 80s and 90s rock-inspired soundtrack further enhances the nostalgic yet fresh feel, solidifying Super Sky Arena as a standout title within Deck 13's impressive portfolio.

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Hover Cubes: Arena (2016)

Hover Cubes: Arena catapults players into a frenetic, first-person multiplayer jump'n'run experience that redefines the platforming genre. Imagine Usain Bolt struggling to keep pace as you navigate multi-dimensional levels, utilizing agile maneuvers like wall jumps and double jumps. The core of the gameplay lies in mastering the titular Hover Cubes, each boasting unique abilities that can be combined to overcome treacherous abysses and deadly traps. Victory is forged not just through personal speed but through strategic interference: block opponents with activated barricades, remove the very ground beneath their feet, and race to dominate the global highscore. With up to eight players competing in adrenaline-fueled matches, the thrill of outmaneuvering rivals is constant, whether you're aiming for the top of the leaderboards or cheering on your favorite team in globally broadcast tournaments. Deck13's inclusion of Hover Cubes: Arena on their "Best Games" list is a testament to its groundbreaking design and sheer replayability. The game masterfully blends elements of a first-person runner, a demanding platformer, and even a competitive shooter, creating a "super unique" gameplay loop that is both incredibly accessible and deceptively challenging. The "easy to learn, hard to master" mantra rings true as players quickly grasp the controls but will struggle intensely to achieve true mastery and climb the leaderboards. This emphasis on intuitive mechanics, combined with the ability to directly manipulate the environment and the competitive multiplayer aspect, offers an experience that is truly distinct and, frankly, hard to compare to anything else available.

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