- RibCage Games’ debut title released on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S
- A rhythm roguelite completed with cartoon-style 3D graphics and real instrument recordings
RibCage Games, a new four-member development studio, has officially released its new rhythm action roguelite title , ‘Alpha Nomos’ . The game is available on various platforms, including PC (Steam), PlayStation 5 (PS5), and Xbox Series X|S.
‘Alpha Nomos’ begins with the premise that the world has collapsed along with the breakdown of music. Players take on the role of the protagonist, ‘Cello,’ and must fight to the beat against rampaging puppets that have broken free from the control of the music. The core of the game lies in combining the precision of the rhythm genre with the randomness and challenge characteristic of roguelites.
The visuals and sound are also eye-catching. By layering a ruined city and a twisted circus stage over cartoon-like 3D graphics, it creates a bizarre yet charming atmosphere known as “puppetcore.” Another notable element is the inclusion of vivid instrument sounds recorded by actual musicians in a studio, which provides a deep sense of immersion.
A world where music has collapsed, a cello that listens until the very end
The world within the game collapsed along with the music. The city is deserted, and the circus puppets that once performed for the audience now hunt everything that moves. Cello and her friends are the last beings who still listen to music. The player takes on the role of Cello and sets out to find the cause of the world’s collapse and the true nature of the music.
Combat is structured around rhythm. According to the developers, input is not automatically adjusted to the beat but is reflected exactly the moment a button is pressed. In essence, attacking in time with the beat is a measure of skill.
The Steam store page states that you can create combos using not only on-beats but also eighth notes and rests. You can also adjust the timing offset before starting to play to match the beat to your environment.
Weapons featuring actual performances and sound effect power-ups
Cello’s weapons were created using instrument sounds recorded by actual musicians in the studio. The starting weapon, the Xyloblades, are twin xylophone-shaped swords. The developers explained that real music was incorporated into every single attack. As the player becomes familiar with the combat, the soundtrack builds along with it.
The element that creates a different playstyle every time is the power-up inspired by sound effects. It is designed so that the same run configuration is not repeated, such as by combining Reverb, Flanger, and Delay, which changes Cello’s combat style and sound together. You can also expand your arsenal at ‘Maestro’s move shop’.
The Puppetcore world created by ruins and circus puppets
The developer describes Puppetcore as an atmosphere capturing the faces of clowns, empty streets, and a beauty that appears twisted the longer you gaze at it. Abandoned cities and puppets that have forgotten how to stop fill the circus.
According to the Steam store page, the game world also responds to music created by the player. FMOD was used for sound work, and Unity was used for game development.
The first commercial work unveiled by four developers… initial reviews are mixed
LiveCage Games is an independent studio founded by four developers who left mobile game development to create PC games. ‘Alpha Nomos’ is their first commercial release. The team unveiled an expanded demo ahead of Steam Next Fest in June of this year and announced plans for a console release in July. Subsequently, in September, they confirmed the official release date as October 12.
Reviews from overseas media were mixed immediately after release. Raider King praised the game’s concept and character design, but pointed out the low firepower of early weapons, monotonous environments, technical issues, and long loading times.
The price of ‘Alpha Nomos’ is $17.99. On Steam, it will be sold at a 10% discount for 7 days after release. It supports a Korean interface and subtitles, but does not provide Korean voice acting.
This is a game worth checking out for users looking for a roguelite that combines rhythmic action with sound that changes with every playthrough.
Information regarding ‘Alpha Nomos’
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | RibCage Games |
| Publisher | RibCage Games |
| Genre | Rhythm action roguelite |
| platform | PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S |
| Release date | October 12, 2026 |
| price | $17.99 (10% off for 7 days after Steam launch) |
| language | 23 languages including Korean interface and subtitles (voice not supported) |
| Reactions/Evaluations | Not recommended in 1 overseas media review (Steam user rating unconfirmed) |
| PlayStation Store | Shortcut |
| Xbox Store | Shortcut |
| Steam Page | Shortcut |
