The Steam launch of Dead Weight: Prologue brings a free taste of a steampunk RPG built on grid-based combat, roguelite elements, and narrative-driven exploration. Now available for PC, this standalone prologue gives players a hands-on introduction to what’s coming in the full game.
Steam launch includes full-featured tactical preview
Released on December 17, 2025, Dead Weight: Prologue lets players control Arn, a barbarian on a rescue mission. The goal? Save a character named Berry from the grip of the Mad Oracle. In the process, players explore the first region of the game’s floating world and face enemies in tactical battles that reward smart positioning.
Combat plays out on compact, tile-based arenas. Enemies and allies can be shoved into traps or obstacles, making the environment part of the strategy. Each move matters especially as enemies become more aggressive and hazards more punishing.
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Steam launch puts roguelite systems front and center
Though short, the prologue offers depth beyond its battles. Players can:
- Upgrade and outfit a flying pirate ship
- Recruit unique crew members
- Unlock 20+ skills and items
- Encounter randomized events and map changes
- Customize characters early on
These systems give the game replayability, even in its limited scope, while reinforcing its roguelite structure.
Dead Weight’s steampunk world sets the tone
Built by Klukva Games and published with Spaghetti Cat, Dead Weight: Prologue sets the stage for a world of floating islands, mysterious gods, and industrial fantasy. Its blend of gritty steampunk tech and mystical lore gives the setting both weight and weirdness perfect for a tactical RPG that leans into strange mechanics.
Every element of the game’s aesthetic, from its gear-driven ships to its atmospheric score, builds toward a clear genre vision that’s both familiar and distinct.
Steam launch sets up full release in 2026
While the full RPG isn’t out yet, the Steam launch of this free chapter lays the groundwork. The single-player demo lasts about 40 to 60 minutes and aims to introduce core mechanics, worldbuilding themes, and the game’s unique flavor without overstaying its welcome.
Tagged on Steam as RPG, strategy, turn-based tactics, and roguelite, the prologue gives fans of those genres something to sink their teeth into while waiting for the full experience.
Just a prologue, but not just a tease
This Steam launch isn’t just a marketing move, it’s a smartly packed preview of a game that knows its audience. If the final build builds on this strong start, Dead Weight could land with impact in 2026.
