Paper Dungeon – Deep Down, developed by NiBo Games, an indie studio founded by veteran game developers based in Prague, Czech Republic, is a game that evokes nostalgia for the classic dungeon crawlers that were all the rage in the 80s and 90s.
The game is attracting attention as a work that combines modern graphics and smooth controls for gamers who miss classics like Dungeon Master, Wizardry, and Eye of the Beholder.
A Unique Worldview: A World of Giant Miniatures
The game tells an emotional story of guilt and tragic loss, unfolding in an environment filled with secrets, combat, puzzles, bizarre creatures, and traps.
Gamers are trapped in a strange place between life and death, and the dungeon consists of a maze woven with 80s D&D nostalgia, featuring a giant dungeon master figure called the enigmatic ‘Overseer’.
The game’s most unique setting is its “giant miniature” concept. Enemies appearing in battle are depicted as “animated game miniatures” depicting zombies, skeletons, and other creatures, some with horrifyingly bizarre designs. This unique approach reinterprets the sensibility of desktop PC RPGs in a modern way.
Deep tactical combat system
‘Paper Dungeon – Deep Down’ is a retro-modern dungeon crawler RPG featuring deep tactical combat. The game offers:
- 12 unique heroes : characters with different play styles
- Over 40 condition combinations : a complex and strategic combat system
- Tons of abilities and items : Endless build possibilities
- Class-based system : Depth of character customization
It captures the essence of classic dungeon crawlers by adopting turn-based combat and a grid-based movement system, while faithfully implementing core elements of old-school CRPGs such as inventory management and outcomes that change depending on your choices.
The game features a variety of unique levels to explore, including a trap-filled basement, an alchemist’s laboratory, a nightmarish infirmary, and a spider-infested nursery. Players can relax and navigate the dungeons in “The Attic,” a safe haven built from sweet memories, but behind every secret room and lock, unexpected, terrifying, or hilarious surprises await.
Psychological horror elements and rich endings and storytelling
Paper Dungeon – Deep Down is a fusion of dungeon crawler RPG and mind-bending psychological horror. With the occasional jump system, the game creates a chilling atmosphere hidden behind a retro aesthetic. It offers a hardcore D&D experience, with no hand-holding, pure gameplay and a rich atmosphere.
The game offers multiple endings, with player choices playing a crucial role. The mysterious story unfolds through a party-based RPG format, allowing players to experience a rich, first-person perspective.
Development status and expectations
The game has been in development for four years now, and the development team is reportedly looking for a partner to help complete the game, including support for porting to platforms other than PC, and handle QA and marketing.
You can follow the development journey by adding it to your wishlist on the Steam Store, and we are launching an official social media in April 2025 to actively communicate with users and promote the game.
Concluding the review
‘Paper Dungeon – Deep Down’ is an ambitious project that reinterprets the essence of dungeon crawlers from the 80s and 90s for a modern audience, while adding a unique element of psychological horror. The massive miniature setting, deep tactical combat, and nostalgic atmosphere of pen-and-paper RPGs promise a captivating experience for fans of classic games.
With a solemn and atmospheric atmosphere and a magnificent music score, the game awaits gamers ready to overcome the Overseer’s terrifying trials and uncover the dungeon’s secrets. For fans of classic CRPGs, this is a must-have for your wishlist.
Steam Store: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3679760/Paper_Dungeon__Deep_Down/
Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nibo-games
Official X (Twitter): https://x.com/NiBoGames
