The retro strategy exploration game SKALD: Against the Black Priory has received “Very Positive” reviews on Steam.

SKALD: Against the Black Priory – A Retro Strategy Exploration RPG by High North Studios AS, Published by Raw Fury, Now Officially Released on Steam with “Very Positive” Reviews

Developed by High North Studios AS and published by Raw Fury, the retro strategy exploration RPG SKALD: Against the Black Priory has officially launched on Steam, where it has already earned “Very Positive” reviews.

This title is a retro party-based role-playing game set in a dark and perilous fantasy world. Here, you will meet a cast of tragic heroes, witness harrowing devastation, and confront Lovecraftian horror. Turn-based tactical combat intertwines with deadly creatures to weave a gripping, intricate narrative—step into the fray and roll the dice to survive.

Currently, SKALD: Against the Black Priory only supports English interfaces and subtitles. A launch discount is available on Steam, with the China-region base game priced at 52.2 CNY.

Steam Store Page: SKALD: Against the Black Priory

Game Introduction

You clamber over the bodies of drowned souls to finally reach the jagged, treacherous shore. Behind you, the tide churns black as ink; above, seagulls scream mournfully; in your nose, the pungent stench of seaweed lingers. It is nothing short of a miracle that you have set foot on the land of Idra. Here and now, mere survival is a struggle—uncovering the dark cult’s secrets will demand every ounce of your wit and strength.

The retro strategy exploration RPG SKALD: Against the Black Priory is now officially released, with “Very Positive” reviews on Steam.

Drawing inspiration from classic old-school RPGs, SKALD: Against the Black Priory combines modern design principles and an engaging narrative with authentic 8-bit game art style.

Delve into a dark fantasy world, face deadly creatures that lurk in the shadows, encounter a variety of tragic heroes, and stand against Lovecraftian horror. Embark on an epic retro-styled adventure—explore freely and showcase your skills in turn-based tactical combat.

Do you have what it takes to lead a band of down-on-their-luck heroes, escape the filthy shores of Idra, storm the dark cult’s priory, and uncover its hidden mysteries?

Build Your Party

Lead a group of 落魄 heroes (down-on-their-luck heroes) through challenging turn-based battles. Choose from ranged and melee weapons, opt for brute force or tactical evasion—all to outsmart vicious foes. Equip your heroes using a modern inventory system; flip through combat and quest logs to complete objectives one by one and unlock long-buried secrets. If progress still stalls, feel free to adjust the difficulty settings—enjoyment comes first.

Prepare for the Journey

Customize character attributes freely and recruit companions as needed. Each character boasts unique strengths, motivations, and personalities, with a maximum level cap of 20. Mix and match from over a dozen classes and backgrounds, plus a vast array of spells and equipment—creativity knows no bounds. Don’t forget the curated collection of nautical recipes at your disposal: channel your inner artisan chef to stock up on supplies for the adventure ahead.

Forge Ahead Without Hesitation

The world is unforgiving, and Lovecraftian horror lurks around every corner. Every choice you make weaves a unique, twisting storyline that is yours alone. Will you fall into peril, or narrowly escape with your life? In the life of a mercenary, this ever-present choice is decided by the roll of your dice.

Nostalgic Homage

Uncover the grand ambitions of the Garian Empire and explore the vast lands of Fremel and its outer isles. In SKALD: Against the Black Priory, you’ll experience a vibrant pixel world—every square hand-drawn—with a color palette inspired by the legendary Commodore 64 computer. For an authentic retro experience, you can even enable the CRT filter.