Are you studious and clever enough to conquer your enemies on the battlefield? The answer lies in a new deckbuilder with permadeath The Royal Writ, from developers Save Sloth Studios and Yogscast Games. Announced last week, the team dropped a teaser gameplay video.

Good communication is the basis for a good rule, and His Illustrious Highness is all about communication. That’s why he sent out letters to some of the kingdom’s troublemakers. The summons to the throne room is mandatory, and if they refuse- well a little siege might persuade them otherwise.

To Arms!

Set in a wonderfully quirky hand drawn atmosphere, reminiscent of a child’s picture book, The Royal Writ features a cast of characters not soon forgotten. Players must employ these peculiar creatures to do your royal bidding. And if we lose a few… hundred… along the way? Such is the price of diplomacy!

Draw your cards and deal damage to the enemy turn by turn in this lane-based card game. Pay attention to each card’s advantage and modifiers or special skill to dominate your foes. Don’t forget the terrain, too. Your creatures will have certain difficulties or a leg up depending on what type of terrain you are playing on. For example, a water-based creature does best in aquatic, water-logged areas. Plan ahead by upgrading your equipment and soldier cards through mini games.

Each map is procedurally generated with the goal of getting to the area’s final boss. Remember that the enemy has advantages too, in the form of ultimate jeopardy. If an enemy base has health remaining when a card reaches it, you risk that card’s permanent deletion from your deck. Of course you can choose to sacrifice a card. While it is a calculated risk, it also opens sub-stories and more paths to explore, making each run unique and memorable.

A Long Time Coming

The Royal Writ started out as an entry for Ludum Dare 55. A fan favorite, the game gained a large amount of positive feedback. “It was a no-brainer for us to start making a full-fledged game out of this idea,” said Kornél Pittmann, co-director, Save Sloth Studios. “Now, it has grown into something filled with tons of unique mechanics, characters and visuals, and we love working on every aspect of it.”

The Royal Writ will release later this year, with a playable demo coming soon. Can’t wait? Join their Discord and Wishlist on Steam for a chance to participate in early Playtests. May the right writ be with you.