Poncle has experienced meteoric growth since the launch of its acclaimed game Vampire Survivors in 2022, reaching over 27 million players and selling a million copies in just a few months. This success has allowed the studio to explore new opportunities and expand its creative focus. Not everything is video games Matteo Sapio, Poncle’s strategy director, highlighted in a recent interview that the company aims to develop a total of 40 projects simultaneously around the world, preferring to work with small and agile teams of between five and fifteen people. According to Sapio, “we don’t want to be AAA […]
Poncle has experienced meteoric growth since the launch of its acclaimed game Vampire Survivors in 2022, reaching over 27 million players and selling a million copies in just a few months. This success has allowed the studio to explore new opportunities and expand its creative focus.
Not all are video games
Matteo Sapio, director of strategy at Poncle, highlighted in a recent interview that the company aims to develop a total of 40 projects simultaneously around the world, preferring to work with small and agile teams of between five and fifteen people. According to Sapio, “we don’t want to be AAA or AA. We are cost-efficient. We do not take unnecessary risks; we invest in people,” which reflects an indie philosophy adapted to a larger reach.
Among the new projects in development is Warhammer Survivors, a licensed game that follows the line of Vampire Survivors and presents itself as an interesting crossover between the digital world of video games and the aesthetic of the well-known board game. This new title, although developed by a different team, is part of the “official Survivors line,” which underscores Poncle’s intention to expand its creative universe.
In addition, the company plans to open new studios in Italy and Japan, consolidating its global presence and fostering collaborations in the sector. As Poncle continues to grow, Sapio is optimistic about the future and the possibility of balancing growth with diversified production: “with 15 projects, one can fail, one can do well, and that balances out”.
The developers of Vampire Survivors have released a new game, Vampire Crawlers, which is a mix of dungeon crawler and deckbuilder. If you think all those words are strange and you’ve never heard them before, and you just want more Vampire Survivors, but in a different way, that’s fine: we can cover you. That’s what we’re here for. To tell you about six other games that are like Vampire Survivors, but with some changes to the formula, so they feel fresh and interesting. Let’s not delay. Let’s manage those skills, even if it hurts your wallet. Temtem: Swarm Vampire Survivors with MOBA elements, allowing you to play […]
The developers of Vampire Survivors have released a new game, Vampire Crawlers, which is a mix of dungeon crawler and deckbuilder. If you think all those words are strange and you’ve never heard them before, and you just want more Vampire Survivors, but in a different way, that’s fine: we can cover you. That’s what we’re here for. To tell you about six other games that are like Vampire Survivors, but with some changes to the formula, so they feel fresh and interesting. Let’s not delay. Let’s manage those skills, even if it hurts your wallet.
Vampire Survivors with MOBA elements, allowing you to play with up to three friends and with a much cuter aesthetic. That is what Temtem: Swarm brings to the formula. With the same frantic action that characterizes survivorlikes, but with enough personality of its own to captivate many people even more than the original, it is one of those games that has flown under the radar of most people, but it shouldn’t. Because Vampire Survivors may be the original, but Temtem: Swarm has managed to carve out its own niche.
Speaking of the original, it is undeniable that Vampire Survivors owes a lot of its gameplay to The Binding of Isaac. Although this is a roguelite inspired by The Legend of Zelda where you will have to decide when to shoot, at least most of the time, and where dungeon exploration is very important, this is one of those games that are already absolute cult classics and can offer you what Vampire Survivors cannot: the next level of difficulty and density. Because if you think Vampire Survivors is packed with secrets and strategies, wait until you discover everything that The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth has behind it.
One of the big sensations of last year, which introduced two key elements to the concept of Vampire Survivor: being 3D and having memes. For many people, being 3D actually made it worse. It made positioning irrelevant and exhausted the formula much faster. The memes were pretty much the same. After the initial fun, they lost their shine very quickly. Does that mean there aren’t people out there who have dedicated hundreds or thousands of hours to it? Of course not. And if the idea of being able to jump over enemies seems appealing to you and you still laugh at the wojak, the truth is: it’s hard to go wrong with Megabonk.
What if Vampire Survivors were a PS1 mecha game? It would have gigantic sprites, the UI would be incredible, and movement would be extremely important, even more than in the original. This is demonstrated by Vita Shell, one of the most original and interesting derivatives of the Vampire Survivors formula that puts us in control of a mecha to survive for 20 waves. Something that will not only be challenging but also a lot of fun. A demonstration that the Vampire Survivors formula is still completely untapped.
Another demonstration of how much is still left to explore is one of last year’s sensation games, BALL x PIT. A game that has taken the audience by storm for being considered tremendously addictive and mixing the ideas of Vampire Survivors with an absolute classic: Breakout. It doesn’t have the elegance of the best games derived from Breakout, or even of Breakout itself, but it replaces it with what many love about Vampire Survivors: increasing numbers, tons of effects, and more balls on screen than you can control. If you want a game to lose yourself in without thinking about anything else, this is your game.
We saved the most insane one for last, because it is difficult to explain, understand, or recommend. Unless you really want a tremendously original game, in which case you should dive right in. It’s a Vampire Survivors with lore based on an apocryphal text from the Bible, in 3D, and with an aesthetic that can only be described as hallucinogenic. Is it weird? Yes. Is it, gameplay-wise, everything that Megabonk aspires to but can’t achieve? Also yes. And we can’t think of a better pitch than that for a game like this.
Developer Vedinad has released the “Spooky” update for their successful game Megabonk, which includes a new map, a new character, and new bosses, as well as a series of bug fixes and balance adjustments. Initially, this update was designed as a small enhancement for Halloween, but the team decided to expand it to coincide with the festive season, promising a “new meta” on their Twitter account. A terrifying meta Since its release in September, Megabonk has captured the attention of the gaming community, standing out as a roguelike reminiscent of titles like Vampire Survivors and Risk of Rain. In […]
The developer Vedinad has released the “Spooky” update for their successful game Megabonk, which includes a new map, a new character, and new bosses, as well as a series of bug fixes and balance adjustments. Initially, this update was designed as a small enhancement for Halloween, but the team decided to expand it to align with the festive season, promising a “new goal” on their Twitter account.
A Terrifying Meta
Since its launch in September, Megabonk has captured the attention of the gaming community, standing out as a roguelike reminiscent of titles like Vampire Survivors and Risk of Rain. In this game, players fight against waves of enemies on random maps while leveling up and finding various items to enhance their gaming experience. This design has contributed to the game receiving an “Extremely Positive” label on Steam and reaching an impressive peak of over 117,000 concurrent players in October, according to data from SteamDB.
Despite its success, Vedinad made the decision to withdraw Megabonk’s nomination for Best Indie Debut Game at The Game Awards, arguing that it did not feel appropriate due to his previous experience in the industry. This humility and reflection on the norms of recognition have been applauded by the community.
Currently, Megabonk is exclusively available for PC and is on sale for $8 until December 17, before returning to its regular price of $10. As the “Spooky” update rolls out, the gaming community is expected to dive into this new content and take the opportunity to enjoy what the game has to offer this holiday season.
A recent report from Google reveals that 87% of game developers are using artificial intelligence in some capacity, highlighting the growing influence of this technology in the gaming industry. A notable example is Codex Mortis, a game whose creator, identified as Crunchfest3, has claimed it is the first fully playable game created 100% by AI. However, this claim is difficult to verify, especially considering other developments like Doomscroll, which have also integrated AI into their creation process. A game with a horrendous appearance Crunchfest3, who shared details of the development in […]
A recent report from Google reveals that 87% of game developers are using artificial intelligence in some capacity, highlighting the growing influence of this technology in the gaming industry.A notable example is Codex Mortis, a game whose creator, identified as Crunchfest3, has claimed it is the first fully playable game created 100% by AI. However, this claim is difficult to verify, especially considering other developments like Doomscroll, which have also integrated AI into their creation process.
A game with a horrendous appearance
Crunchfest3, who shared details of the development on the AI game developers subreddit, has claimed that they did not use a conventional game engine and that the title was created in just three months. The game is built with TypeScript, uses PIXI.js for rendering, bitECS for the backend, and is presented as a desktop application developed with Electron. Most of the art and animations were generated by AI tools, including the use of ChatGPT and a shader designed by Claude Code.
Currently, Codex Mortis is only available as a demo on its Steam page, where players can experience a video game reminiscent of Vampire Survivors, although with a visual style that some describe as confusing and indistinct. The game’s promotion includes a cinematic trailer that takes a provocative approach by showing a character vaporizing demons labeled as AI antis.
Despite its label as an innovator in the use of AI, some analysts point out that the definition of fully AI-generated may be more complicated than it seems. The industry continues to explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence, leaving open questions about the future of such developments in the field of video games.
The confusion in the categorization of genres in video games has led to the creation of a collective initiative among more than 450 developers to establish an official name for a new emerging genre on Steam, informally recognized as bullet heaven or survivorslikes. Games like Vampire Survivors and Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles have highlighted the lack of an appropriate label that reflects their unique proposal and mechanics, often leading to them being assigned a genre that does not fit. A nameless genre With the growing popularity of these titles, the community has decided to take action […]
The confusion in the categorization of genres in video games has led to the creation of a collective initiative among more than 450 developers to establish an official name for a new emerging genre on Steam, informally recognized as bullet heaven or survivorslikes. Games like Vampire Survivors and Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles have highlighted the lack of an appropriate label that reflects their unique proposal and mechanics, often leading to them being assigned a genre that does not fit.
A genre without a name
With the growing popularity of these titles, the community has decided to take action. The public survey, which was launched during the Bullet Heaven Festival on Steam, aims to obtain a name that provides a better definition and visibility for these games, with the hope that this will improve the discovery experience for both players and developers. Seven different name options have been proposed, ranging from more generic terms like “horde survival” to less conventional alternatives like “multi-directional shooter”.
According to the organizers of the survey, more than 7,000 people have already participated, highlighting the interest and need to establish a clear categorization in such a vast entertainment medium. “Steam has a huge influence on how game genres are defined, and this rapidly growing genre still lacks a proper label,” they mention in the statement. The lack of a clear categorization has made it difficult for players to find similar games and has led to innovative titles getting lost among broader categories like RPGs or action games.
The survey results will be announced on December 10, and the new name is expected to be presented to Valve for consideration. This initiative not only aims to provide formal recognition to a new genre but also to help facilitate the search and discovery of relevant content on the Steam platform, benefiting both players and content creators.
The latest update of Vampire Survivors, version 1.14, has arrived with a series of new features that have excited the community. Among the most notable is the introduction of the cooperative online gameplay mode, which allows up to four players to explore the map together while leveling up. This feature, which has been awaited since it entered beta testing in August, transforms the individual gaming experience into a more communal adventure. Jimbo arrives to kill those vampires. In addition to the cooperative mode, the update brings a thematic expansion of Balatro, […]
The latest update of Vampire Survivors, version 1.14, has arrived with a series of new features that have excited the community. Among the most notable is the introduction of the cooperative online gameplay mode, which allows up to four players to explore the map together while leveling up. This feature, which has been awaited since it entered beta testing in August, transforms the individual gaming experience into a more communal adventure.
Jimbo arrives to kill those vampires
In addition to the cooperative mode, the update brings a thematic expansion of Balatro, which includes the charismatic character Jimbo and a selection of three rare jokers as new playable characters. Players will also have access to four new weapons inspired by Balatro, such as the flaming score counter and a rain of bananas, in addition to the Ante Chamber stage. To access this content, the purchase of the Joker Disk relic in the Moongolow stage for 50,000 gold is required, which some players may already have saved.
The 1.14 update is not limited to the Balatro expansion; it also introduces two new scenarios for the base game: Westwoods and Mazerella, which bring new characters, weapons, and an additional power mechanism. Owners of the Ode to Castlevania expansion will receive even more content, including new secret characters, weapons, and weapon unions.
This collaboration between Vampire Survivors and Balatro continues to strengthen the ties between both games, which have shared characters and elements on several occasions. The accumulation of content and novelties in this update promises to revitalize players’ interest in Vampire Survivors, consolidating it as one of the most attractive titles today.
Luca Galante, the creator behind the acclaimed game Vampire Survivors, released this title in 2021 as an escape from his work in the mobile gambling game industry. The unexpected popularity of Vampire Survivors not only generated a new genre but also led Galante to a critical analysis of the current state of the video game industry. In a recent interview with GamesRadar, Galante expressed his frustration with many publishers who tend to exploit platforms in search of quick profits, highlighting the trend of releasing incomplete games that are often abandoned after failing to reach […]
Luca Galante, the creator behind the acclaimed game Vampire Survivors, released this title in 2021 as an escape from his work in the mobile gambling game industry. The unexpected popularity of Vampire Survivors not only generated a new genre but also led Galante to a critical analysis of the current state of the video game industry. In a recent interview with GamesRadar, Galante expressed his frustration with many publishers who tend to exploit platforms in search of quick profits, highlighting the trend of releasing incomplete games that are often abandoned after failing to achieve imminent success.
Create a publishing division for the benefit of developers and the public
With the success of Vampire Survivors, the studio Poncle, which now has more than 25 employees, has established its own publishing division, Poncle Presents, with the aim of offering alternatives to the practices of many publishers that prioritize money over product integrity. “For me, it is very important to support games after their release,” said Galante. “Once you put the game out there, you have an audience, and that audience deserves to be treated fairly.”
Galante is enthusiastic about collaborating with independent developers, seeking to rescue the creative essence of games instead of forcing creators to modify their vision to maximize profits. “We are fortunate that Vampire Survivors has been a success. Although we made some mistakes when launching the game, we learned a lot and want to share that knowledge with other indie developers,” he stated.
Poncle has begun to support small teams and games with affordable prices, such as Kill the Brickman and Berserk or Die, thus reaffirming Galante’s commitment to enriching the independent community. Although his approach may be considered idealistic, Galante continues to pursue a space where creativity and genuine value are prioritized in video game publishing.
Luca Galante, creator of the acclaimed game Vampire Survivors, has highlighted the growing interest in roguelike elements across various video game genres, including big-budget or AAA titles. During a recent interview, Galante expressed his excitement about seeing how these types of mechanics are being integrated into more conventional games, allowing players to enjoy a complete experience from the start. They end when you start enjoying them Galante mentioned that he has experienced frustration with certain role-playing games where the true fun and potential of skills only manifest once the end is reached
Luca Galante, creator of the acclaimed game Vampire Survivors, has highlighted the growing interest in roguelike elements across various video game genres, including big-budget or AAA titles. During a recent interview, Galante expressed his excitement about seeing how these types of mechanics are being integrated into more conventional games, allowing players to enjoy a complete experience from the start.
They run out when you start enjoying them
Galante mentioned that he has experienced frustration with certain role-playing games where the true fun and potential of skills only manifest once the end of the game is reached, describing the initial narrative as an extensive tutorial. This feeling resonates with many players, who see roguelikes as an alternative that offers challenges and entertainment from the very first moment, eliminating the need to restart the game to enjoy the more complex mechanics.
The success of roguelikes has been palpable, not only in the indie realm where they have gained great popularity, but also in the AAA space, as demonstrated by the roguelike mode in God of War: Ragnarok and other similar additions in titles like The Last of Us 2 and Elden Ring. Galante pointed out that, despite the current trend towards roguelikes, it is possible that players will eventually return to more linear styles of gameplay, a shift that could make the variety and randomness of roguelikes less appealing over time.
At the end of the conversation, Galante made it clear that his desire is to see more games, especially in the AAA sector, that incorporate these roguelike systems, as they allow players to enjoy gameplay without waiting for a long time. As he expresses, “it makes me happy to know that these mechanics are being used, as it is one of the best ways to enjoy a video game”.
The studio Poncle, known for its acclaimed title Vampire Survivors, has released its first video game, titled Berserk or Die. This new project has caught attention for its innovative control approach and its fusion of arcade genres with roguelike elements. In a two-dimensional environment, players control their character using keyboards, hitting the keys to perform attacks. The more keys pressed, the more powerful the attack will be, generating a frantic pace reminiscent of early experiences in fighting games. The more keys you hit at the same time, the better Berserk or Die offers simple gameplay, […]
The studio Poncle, known for its acclaimed title Vampire Survivors, has released its first video game, titled Berserk or Die. This new project has caught attention for its innovative control approach and its fusion of arcade genres with roguelike elements. In a two-dimensional environment, players control their character using keyboards, hitting the keys to perform attacks. The more keys pressed, the more powerful the attack will be, generating a frantic pace reminiscent of early experiences in fighting games.
The more keys you hit at the same time, the better
Berserk or Die offers simple gameplay, but its execution has surprised many players, who often find themselves playing for hours longer than they initially planned. Just like in Vampire Survivors, users select scenarios and face hordes of enemies, unlocking achievements and secrets as they progress. Although the game may seem like a basic proposal, its design manages to capture attention and keep players on the edge of their seats.
Poncle has guaranteed strong post-launch support for Berserk or Die, suggesting that updates and additional content will be implemented in the future. This commitment adds to the positive expectations that the game has generated in the gamer community, standing out as one of the most unique proposals among the more than 14,000 titles released annually on Steam. As it is publicly showcased at events like the PC Gaming Show, Berserk or Die could establish itself as a worthy alternative within the growing roguelike market.
With its combination of familiar elements and intriguing gameplay, Berserk or Die invites players to embark on an action-packed journey, promising much more than just a simple arcade experience. This is a title that is sure to generate buzz in the coming months.
Dr. Doot, known for his impressive feat of attempting a damage-free run with a saxophone in Dark Souls 2, has returned with a new challenge in Elden Ring Nightreign, a title that introduces a faster, roguelike gameplay style, setting it apart from previous FromSoftware entries. In his latest feat, the talented player has faced the game’s second boss, Adel, Baron of the Night, in a fight marked by his remarkable skill. Although Elden Ring Nightreign allows teams of up to three players, Dr. Doot has decided to take on the formidable boss solo, which […]
Dr. Doot, known for his impressive feat of attempting a no-damage run with a saxophone in Dark Souls 2, has returned with a new challenge in Elden Ring Nightreign, a title that introduces a faster, roguelike gameplay style, setting it apart from previous FromSoftware entries. In his latest feat, the talented player has faced the game’s second boss, Adel, Baron of the Night, in a fight marked by his remarkable skill. Although Elden Ring Nightreign allows teams of up to three players, Dr. Doot has chosen to confront the formidable boss solo, which has garnered admiration and some frustration among the gaming community.
Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean I don’t have it mastered
In a recent post on Twitter, he shared a video where he can be seen fighting against Adel for 40 seconds, demonstrating exceptional control by maintaining three health potions remaining, something that contrasts with the experience of many players who quickly exhaust their resources in the early moments of any battle. However, Dr. Doot himself acknowledged the difficulty of the game, noting that it could be one of the hardest he has faced in his career, a reminder that, despite his skill, he remains human.
Dr. Doot’s success in Elden Ring Nightreign has generated great interest in the speedrunning culture and challenges in video games, reflecting how players seek new and varied ways to overcome difficult challenges. Additionally, recent discoveries within the game have led to the creation of a combination of skills that transforms the gameplay experience into a chaotic environment similar to that of Vampire Survivors, adding a new dimension to the already complex title.
