The Killing Stone: A Deckbuilding Card Battler Set in a Haunted Mansion
I’ve been hesitant to explore The Killing Stone, a deckbuilding card battler, amidst the influx of similar games. However, as the game launches on Steam early access today, it’s time to delve into this intriguing world. Developed by Question Games, known for titles like The Magic Circle and The Blackout Club, The Killing Stone offers a unique experience set in a mansion in the Arctic during the 17th century. The team behind Question Games includes individuals who have worked on renowned games like Bioshock, Thief, and Dishonored.
Reminiscent of Inscryption, The Killing Stone presents a blend of a tabletop game and eerie occurrences within the game’s universe. Players engage in a tabletop game against demons, with the fate of the cursed Svangård family hanging in the balance. Between gameplay rounds, players can explore the mansion in first person, interact with the Svangårds, and communicate with various animal familiars. The narrative unfolds through two distinct writing styles – “period 17th century English” and a more modern prose, complemented by full text and voice-acting.
The early access version of the game features three primary story acts, each focusing on a different Svangård family member and their corresponding deck of cards. Players will face off against three demon lords and can undertake optional ritual missions, offering 6-8 hours of gameplay. As development progresses, Question Games plans to introduce more languages, expand the story, enhance voice acting, and introduce complex mysteries for players to unravel. Player feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the game’s future updates.
The team also hints at an upcoming endgame content named The Reckoning, set to be a major feature in the 1.0 release scheduled in approximately six months. The post concludes with the statement that The Killing Stone is the culmination of the team’s vision for an immersive gaming experience.
Considering the promising elements of The Killing Stone, one can’t help but draw parallels to The Blackout Club, a previous title from Question Games. While The Blackout Club had its shortcomings, it offered moments of excitement and intrigue. As we await the full release of The Killing Stone, it’s clear that this game holds immense potential for players seeking a unique and immersive gaming experience.
