- A Solo Triumph: Created by lone developer Ryan (Dead Right Games), this title is a love letter to 32-bit survival horror.
- Tactical Tension: Features a unique hybrid combat system that blends real-time dodging with tactical slow-motion command chains.
- Stellar Reception: Currently holding a 94% “Very Positive” rating on Steam just days after its January 23rd launch.
The indie horror scene has a new heavyweight. Released on January 23, 2026, Wicked Seed is proving that a single developer’s vision can occasionally outshine big-budget productions. Drawing heavy inspiration from classics like Resident Evil and Parasite Eve, the game combines high-stakes survival with deep RPG progression.
The Nightmare Begins: Ella’s Search for Truth
The story follows Ella, a young woman who receives a cryptic, unsettling letter from her estranged brother. He claims that strange, unexplainable events are occurring at the company where he works and begs her to come. Upon her arrival, Ella finds herself trapped in a world overrun by grotesque monsters.
Players must guide Ella through haunting locales, including:
- Shadowed Forests and isolated cabins.
- Forgotten Underground Tunnels.
- Evacuated Urban Centers.
As Ella uncovers the truth behind the outbreak, she must also confront the dark secrets buried in her own past.
A Unique Hybrid: “Tactical Survival Horror”
The standout feature of Wicked Seed is its combat. While exploration feels like a classic Resident Evil experience with real-time movement, the battles introduce a sophisticated tactical slow-motion mechanic.
- Reactive Defense: Players must move, block, parry, and dodge enemy attacks in real-time by learning their patterns.
- Chain Attack System: During “slow-mo” windows, players can queue up a series of attacks. Each subsequent hit grows more powerful, but finding the time to execute these chains without being interrupted is the ultimate challenge.
- Masterful Positioning: Flanking an enemy or timing a counter-hit can completely incapacitate a foe or deal massive critical damage.
Rewarding the Thorough: RPG Growth Systems
Wicked Seed isn’t just about surviving; it’s about growing stronger through investigation.
“I expected a rough indie project, but found a full-fledged RPG with an intriguing narrative and a combat system that has actual depth.” — Turn Based Lovers
- The Bestiary Reward: Exploiting a monster’s weakness a specific number of times grants permanent stat bonuses, such as increased AoE damage or improved crit efficiency.
- The Rest Dilemma: Safe rooms allow you to save, upgrade weapons, and recover energy. However, resting causes nearby monsters to respawn—a calculated risk every player must manage.
- Earnable Customization: The game features over 50 earnable costumes, ranging from tactical gear to classic styles, all found through exploration and challenges rather than microtransactions.
Game Profile: Wicked Seed
| Category | Details |
| Developer | Dead Right Games (Ryan) |
| Release Date | January 23, 2026 |
| Platform | PC (Steam Exclusive) |
| Language | English Only (Current) |
| Content Warning | High Gore, Mature Language, Partial Nudity |
| Current Promo | 20% Launch Discount (Until Feb 6) |
The Verdict: A Hidden Gem of 2026
While the game features the gritty, unpolished edges typical of a solo-developed project, its mechanical depth and atmospheric consistency have won over the hardcore horror community. With a high skill ceiling and a story that respects the player’s intelligence, Wicked Seed is a must-play for fans of tactical RPGs and old-school horror alike.
Steam Page:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2767530/Wicked_Seed/
