- Developed by Doinksoft, distributed by Devolver Digital… Simultaneous release on PC and Nintendo Switch
- A pixel platformer that adds the fun of a roguelike build to the nostalgia of classic action games.
Dark Scrolls, a new pixel action platformer from the American company Doinksoft, known for Gato Roboto and Gunbrella, was officially released on PC and Nintendo Switch on June 22 (local time) through global indie publisher Devolver Digital.
[Related Article: Information Revealed on Retro-Style Roguelike Shooter ‘Dark Scrolls’]
Dark Scrolls is a game that combines fast-paced shooting action with roguelike progression elements. It adopts a dungeon structure where handcrafted rooms are procedurally combined, resulting in new battles in every playthrough.
In addition, it delivers high replay value by adding nine unique characters and a variety of perks, summoned companions, and trinket combinations. The trailer released alongside the launch is garnering attention from fans for its unique direction, which parodies old console game customer support center advertisements.
A blend of old-school sensibility and modern action
One of the biggest charms of ‘Dark Scrolls’ is its visuals and sound, which perfectly capture the essence of classic arcade games. The pixel graphics, retro sound effects, and retro-style background music blend together to complete the unique atmosphere of classic dungeon action games.
On the other hand, the controls actively reflect modern game design. Designed to enable fast movement, evasion, and immediate attack reactions, they minimize the sluggishness characteristic of classic games.
Unique characters such as a mouse playing the saxophone and a cute puppy warrior also catch the eye. These humorous elements create a striking contrast with the dark and dangerous dungeon environment, revealing Doinksoft’s distinctive personality.
In addition, projectiles that fill the screen and flashy destruction effects visually maximize the thrill of completing the build.
Roguelite action combining reflexes and the fun of growth
The gameplay requires the quick judgment and instantaneous response skills characteristic of the dungeon scroller genre. A roguelike-style growth system has been added on top of the basic structure of dodging enemy attacks and exploiting openings to counterattack.
Dungeons are generated in different forms every time, and branching paths and boss combinations also constantly change. This is why it requires a different strategy for each playthrough, even when using the same character.
During exploration, you can acquire new perks, powerful attack abilities, and summoned companions through the ‘Bruce & Goose’ shop. The process of combining various elements to complete your own unique build is considered the core fun of the game. Once a specific combination is complete, it unleashes firepower powerful enough to allow you to experience the “Arcade Legend-level destruction” described by the developers.
In addition, the 9 playable characters each have unique skills, exclusive goals, and accessory customization elements, allowing you to enjoy completely different play styles depending on the character you choose.
The third collaboration following ‘Gato Roboto’ and ‘Gunbrella’
Doink Soft has been recognized for its unique gameplay and high level of completeness through ‘Gato Roboto’ and ‘Gunbrella’, and has received support from the indie game fanbase.
‘Dark Scrolls’ is the third title released in collaboration with Devolver Digital. The two companies, having maintained a long-standing partnership, are garnering anticipation from genre fans by presenting a game that once again showcases their unique individuality and experimental spirit.
To celebrate the launch, Devolver Digital is also running an event in select regions offering ‘Gunbrella’ and ‘Gato Roboto’ for free. This supports new users in experiencing Doinksoft’s flagship titles.
Attention is focused on whether ‘Dark Scrolls,’ which combines classic arcade vibes, modern roguelike action, and Doinksoft’s signature cheerful imagination, can establish itself as another distinctive indie action game.
Information regarding ‘Dark Scrolls’
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | Doinksoft |
| Publisher | Devolver Digital |
| Genre | Pixel Action Platformer / Dungeon Scroller / Roguelite |
| Release platform | PC (Steam) / Nintendo Switch |
| Release date | June 22, 2025 (local time) |
| Launch price | 10,500 won (10% discount for the first 2 weeks of launch) |
| Playable character | 9 people (Warrior, Mage, Rogue, Puppy, Alien, Saxophone-playing Mouse, etc.) |
| Dungeon generation method | Handcraft Room + Procedural Combination |
| Build system | Perks · Powerful Attackers · Summoned Companions · Customizable Trinkets |
| Launch Event | Free ‘Gunbrella’ and ‘Gato Roboto’ in select regions |
| Developer’s flagship title | Gato Roboto, Gunbrella |
| Steam Page | Shortcut |
