Little Mage, an action-RPG metroidvania developed by an architect turned solo game developer, revealed

Developer Violoken, an architect turned game developer, has revealed their first project in Little Mage - a metroidvania with action-RPG elements, such as leveling, equipment loadouts, stat point allocation, and skills. Inspired by card games from RPGs like Final Fantasy IX, the game will also include their own spin on a card game - called DARC. The game was revealed with a teaser trailer last week as part of the Future Games Show.

Violoken plans to launch a Kickstarter for the project in the near future; while they pledge that the game will be developed and released regardless of the outcome, they hope to expand their team and speed up production by hiring new staff. Understandably so, as the developer is currently in the process of pursuing their PhD in Architecture while simultaneously developing the game. Little Mage will release on PC (Steam) and "all major console platforms" sometime in the currently undecided future. Violoken has also gone to great lengths to emphasize that the game is "hand-crafted", seemingly to stress that it won't contain any AI-generated assets.

Little Mage Screenshots, Hand-Drawn Maps and DARC Cards

Story.
In Little Mage, you play as an Æther Mage, the first to awaken in a world ravaged by the Fall. The city of Hornedrose, once a thriving capital, now lies in ruin, a tomb for the Sixteen, ancient mages imprisoned for their role in a catastrophic event. As the last hope, you must traverse the city's crumbling districts, face powerful enemies, and unravel the secrets that could either save or destroy what's left of the world.

World.
A dark, lived-in world showcasing the decaying architectural grandeur of the fallen Magie. The city’s intricate blend of ancient and otherworldly designs sets the stage for your journey, filled with rich discoveries, unique languages, and a deep history waiting to be uncovered. Explore every corner, overcoming platforming challenges that test your skill as you navigate treacherous heights and crumbling depths.

Key Features.

Hand-Crafted Environments: Meticulously designed spaces blending classical and modern artistry, creating a living, rich world.

Deep Narrative and Lore: Explore Hornedrose’s fate through environmental storytelling, ancient texts, and memorable characters.

Responsive Platforming Challenges: Navigate the world with precise controls, rewarding skillful movement and platforming mastery.

Spells and Elemental Magic: Use and upgrade Fire, Earth, Metal, Æther, and other incantations for combat and traversal.

Challenging Bosses: Face epic, strategic boss battles in stunning set pieces that test precision and skill.

Progression and Customization: Level up, unlock powerful gear, and tailor your playstyle as you explore.

DARC Mini-game: A strategic, fully integrated card mini-game with thousands of drops for added fun.

Immense Replayability: Uncover secrets, collect equipment, and explore new pathways with each playthrough.

Violoken.
Violoken is an architect and art director turned solo developer, leveraging their background to enhance game design. Alongside development, they are completing a PhD on the intersection of architecture and games.