Get ready to dive into a dream-like adventure as Pahdo Labs, an indie team with developers from Capcom, WayForward, and Riot Games, announces its debut game: Starlight Re:Volver! Set to launch on PC in Early Access on Steam in 2025, this anime-inspired action adventure promises to deliver a co-op roguelite experience that’ll take you on a journey between cutting-edge cities and surreal, otherworldly realms.
The World of Starlight Re:Volver
In Starlight Re:Volver, you’ll play as a “Diver”—a brave explorer equipped with powerful devices called Re:Volvers that allow you to travel between two unique worlds: Nishi Island Metropolis (NIM), a futuristic, bustling city, and So Mi, a mystical dream realm. As you hop between these realities, you’ll uncover secrets, hunt for treasures, and, of course, take on epic challenges.
You’ll be joined by a cast of fully voiced characters, including the determined Effy, the seasoned Akira, the laidback mentor Ren, and the tech genius Violet. Together, you’ll explore NIM’s urban jungle and So Mi’s enchanting, surreal landscapes, all while unraveling the mysteries behind the Re:Volver devices. But beware—delving too deep into So Mi’s dreamscape might just make you lose yourself.
A Love Letter to Classic Anime and Games
Drawing inspiration from legendary anime creators like Naoko Takeuchi and Rumiko Takahashi, Starlight Re:Volver is a nostalgic nod to the 90s and 00s anime and games that shaped the Pahdo Labs team. The game combines Japanese ARPG-style combat with the addictive elements of Western roguelites, creating a vibrant, social world where every battle and every choice feels meaningful.
What to Expect from Starlight Re:Volver
Here’s a taste of what Starlight Re:Volver has in store:
- Massive Multiplayer Fun: Bring your friends to explore the streets of NIM! You’ll be able to join online servers packed with players, play minigames inspired by Asian cultures, and customize your character’s look and abilities to stand out in the bustling metropolis. Plus, you can celebrate victories with flashy fireworks and in-game fanfare.
- Playfully Explosive Combat: Team up with up to three other players to smash through enemies, trigger Magic Combos, and alter terrain by shattering Twilight Crystals to reveal hidden treasures and tactical advantages. Every encounter is a visual and strategic spectacle!
- Wide Character Progression: As a Diver, you’ll discover Charms that enhance your abilities in unexpected ways. With each run, you’ll craft powerful gear, unlock new skills, and personalize your Diver with skins and accessories that show off your style.
- A Vibrant, Anime-Inspired World: Get ready to explore stunning dreamscapes, from floating islands to cosmic starbases. So Mi’s world is packed with distinct areas that mix wonder and nostalgia, each with unique gameplay elements to keep things fresh.
- A Catchy Soundtrack: The game’s electro-city pop soundtrack perfectly matches its colorful, anime-inspired visuals, making it easy to get lost in the atmosphere.
The Story So Far
In the bustling city of NIM, a few talented individuals have learned to harness the power of Re:Volvers, unlocking gateways to the mysterious So Mi. As a freshly awakened Diver, you’ll embark on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the streets of NIM and the dreamlike landscapes of So Mi. Along the way, you’ll unlock the secrets of the Re:Volver devices and face off against extraordinary challenges that could shape your future—and your legacy—as a Diver.
But tread carefully, because the more you explore So Mi, the more you risk losing yourself to its enchantment.
Starlight Re:Volver will enter Early Access on PC via Steam in 2025. For updates, follow Pahdo Labs on X (Twitter) and visit their official website.
About Pahdo Labs
Based in New York and Vancouver, Pahdo Labs is a passionate indie team with a mission: to create unforgettable social worlds inspired by anime. With Starlight Re:Volver, they’re building a community-driven experience that allows players to shape the world around them, master new skills, and make a lasting impact.