StarVaders: The Ultimate Mech Roguelike Deckbuilder Lands on Steam April 30
Independent developer Pengonauts and publisher Joystick Ventures are set to unleash StarVaders, a tactical roguelike deckbuilder with mech combat, on April 30, 2025, via Steam. After over three years in development and amassing an impressive 55,000+ wishlists, StarVaders is finally ready to bring its high-intensity, card-driven battles to players worldwide.
With a launch price of $24.99, the game will offer a 10% discount during the first two weeks post-release. Whether you're a seasoned deckbuilder strategist or a newcomer looking for an engaging mix of tactical grid-based combat and card synergy theory crafting, StarVaders promises to deliver a uniquely elegant, high-replayability experience.
A Mech Roguelike Unlike Any Other
At its core, StarVaders blends deckbuilding mechanics with turn-based tactics on a grid battlefield. Players take control of one of three powerful mechs, piloted by ten unique characters, each bringing distinct abilities and playstyles to the fight against relentless alien invaders.
Eddie Cai, a.k.a. axolotl, the game’s lead designer, is excited to see how players push the game’s combo-based mechanics to the limit:
"It's always great watching someone play the game and discover a new combo I didn't even realize and then pretend it was all planned. I’m looking forward to seeing what players come up with when they put their hands on the release version and see all the cool stuff we added."
With deep tactical decision-making, a rewind-time mechanic to correct mistakes, and hundreds of cards and artifacts to unlock, StarVaders is set to challenge players in a dynamic and ever-changing battlefield.
Key Features
Three Mechs, Three Distinct Playstyles
Each mech in StarVaders plays entirely differently, offering players a variety of strategic approaches:
- Gunner Mecha – High-powered, board-clearing firepower.
- Stinger Mecha – A fast, ninja-like combat style with precision strikes.
- Keeper Mecha – A spell-based mech utilizing magical energy for devastating effects.
Ten Unique Pilots
Every mech can be piloted by one of ten characters, each with their playstyle and backstory:
- Gunner Mecha Pilots: Roxy, Noel, Zeke
- Stinger Mecha Pilots: Shun, Hali, Kaia
- Keeper Mecha Pilots: Iris, Xenn, Garu, Sura
Deep Deckbuilding and Customization
- 268 Cards to craft and refine your deck.
- 153 Artifacts that dramatically change gameplay rules.
- 10 Randomly Assigned Card Packs to keep every run fresh.
- 400+ Unlockable Cards, Artifacts, and Upgrades to evolve your strategy.
Challenging Enemy Encounters
- 50 Alien Invaders, each with unique abilities that force tactical adaptation.
- 9 Bosses designed to push players’ skills to the limit.
Multiple Game Modes
- Story Campaign with a Secret Finale to uncover.
- Ascending Difficulty Levels, introducing new gameplay mechanics with each step up.
- Challenge Run & Daily Run modes for endless replayability.
Innovative Time-Rewind Mechanic
One of StarVaders’ most exciting features is the Chrono Token system, allowing players to reverse key mistakes and refine their strategy mid-run. This adds a layer of tactical depth, letting players take risks without the frustration of instant failure.
A Passion Project Years in the Making
StarVaders is the debut title from Montreal-based indie studio Pengonauts, a three-person team that has dedicated over three years to crafting a game that merges tactical precision with deckbuilding mastery. Originally known as StarVaders Studio, the team’s transition to Pengonauts marks their commitment to delivering unique, fun, and unforgettable gaming experiences.
Is StarVaders the Next Big Roguelike Deckbuilder?
With games like Slay the Spire, Into the Breach, and Fights in Tight Spaces setting the standard for card-based tactics, StarVaders is poised to carve out its niche by adding mech combat and a strategic battlefield grid to the mix.
The game’s blend of deckbuilding, positional strategy, and pilot-based synergies promises depth, variety, and replayability. If you enjoy card-based tactics with a twist, this might be the next indie hit to watch.
Will you be taking on the alien invaders in StarVaders when it launches on April 30? Let us know how you're planning to build your mech-powered deck!