- Kniv Studio’s Debut: The ambitious project from the K-indie studio (founded in 2022) finally unveils its playable demo.
- Modern Twist on Tradition: Merging classic SRPG foundations with an innovative card-based combat system featuring counters and combos.
- Immersive Experience: Includes 1–1.5 hours of core content, cinematic pixel animations, and a story-driven campaign.
South Korean indie developer Kniv Studio has officially released the Steam demo for its turn-based SRPG, “STARDUST: Wish of Witch,” on January 20, 2026. This title has captured the attention of SRPG enthusiasts by blending the nostalgic charm of classic strategy games with modern cinematic flair and tactical depth.
Kniv Studio: A Vision for Animated Storytelling
Founded in 2022, Kniv Studio is an independent developer dedicated to creating high-quality 2D games that prioritize “animation-driven gameplay.” With a team of 10 industry veterans, the studio aims to deliver immersive narratives supported by sophisticated visual presentation.
Since its inception, the studio has focused exclusively on the Stardust project. Their journey reached a significant milestone in 2023 when their Tumblbug crowdfunding campaign reached 586% of its goal. Supported by the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) and KOCCA, the studio secured seed investment in 2025 and was named one of the “IndieCraft TOP 50” K-indie stars.
A Journey of Stars and Wishes
The narrative centers on a journey through the magical territory of Stormhold, where a mysterious star has fallen.
- Star: An energetic and tomboyish warrior.
- Yu: Her childhood friend and a skilled mage.
Together, they venture into forbidden lands to uncover the star’s secret—a power said to grant wishes. Along the way, the duo faces personal growth, internal conflicts, and the hidden truth behind the origin of the stars.
Modernizing the Classic SRPG Formula
Stardust builds upon the grid-based tactical foundations seen in classics like Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics, but injects modern complexity through its Card System.
- Card-Based Strategy: Players use skill cards to expand tactical variables beyond simple attacks and movement.
- Counter and Combo System: A layer of reactive gameplay that allows players to read enemy movements and turn the tide with chain attacks.
- Cinematic Ultimate Skills: Stylized 2D animated cutscenes, inspired by high-end Japanese anime, play during ultimate abilities to mark the climax of a battle.
Demo Content: What to Expect
The demo provides a substantial look at the early game, offering roughly 1.5 hours of playtime:
- 7 PvE Stages: Including the opening chapter of the story.
- Professional Voice Acting: Fully recorded pixel cinematics that enhance narrative immersion.
- 20+ Skill Cards: Hands-on experience with the counter/combo mechanics using three different characters.
What about **Kniv Studio**, a company that dreams of becoming a modern SRPG master based on pixel art?
Kniv Studio, founded in 2022, is a K-indie independent developer specializing in creating games that blend anime-style visuals with in-depth strategic gameplay. The team, comprised of around 10 professionals with extensive experience in the gaming and animation industries, aims to deliver visually stunning games and immersive storylines. They gained attention in 2023 when their game “Stardust: The Witch” achieved 586% of its funding goal in a Tumblbug crowdfunding campaign. They also received support from the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) Indie Game Development Support Program and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA). They are considered a promising K-indie star, having been selected for the Indiecraft TOP 50 in 2025.
| division | Key Contents |
| Studio name | Kniv Studio |
| Representative and Director | Hong Jong-hyun |
| Year of establishment | 2022 |
| scale | 10 people (as of 2025) |
| Key milestones | • 2022: Kniv Studios founded • 2023: Stardust: The Star and the Witch Tumblbug crowdfunding campaign reaches 586% • 2025: Stardust: Stars and Witches Indie Craft TOP 50, • 2026: Stardust: The Witch and the Stars Steam Demo Released, Coming in Q2 |
| Official website | https://www.kniv.studio/ |
| Official Trailer | Official Trailer |
| Steam Store Page | Steam Store |
