Rubinite, a dark fantasy action RPG developed by Gameworks Ventures and Cup Dog Games, has been released today on Steam. The game centers on Ruby, an outcast princess seeking to overthrow a sorceress who conquered her Scarlet Kingdom. To achieve this, Ruby must first defeat a variety of formidable sentinels.
The combat system encourages precision and timing. Ruby's primary attack with her knife deals minimal damage, but she possesses the ability to mark enemy weak points by aiming with an analog stick while holding a trigger. This process fills a bar, culminating in a powerful attack. However, Ruby cannot move while marking and any marked points are dispelled if she takes damage. Players can dodge with precise timing during the marking process to instantly fill the bar. This system offers a departure from traditional attrition-based combat, as there is no defensive block option, requiring players to learn enemy attack patterns.
Beyond the core marking mechanic, players can upgrade Ruby by leveling up and acquiring talismans. These enhancements can stun opponents or convert damage taken into health regeneration. Each boss encounter introduces unique challenges, such as the ability to deflect projectiles back at the sender.
The game's world blends grim visuals with moments of unexpected whimsy, drawing comparisons to titles like Blasphemous. Between boss fights, players return to a hub area, a shattered tower, where they can level up and interact with non-player characters. These include a blacksmith and a warrior known as Owl Face, whose quests can introduce morally ambiguous scenarios.
The hub area also expands as bosses are defeated, revealing new treasures and side rooms. Rubinite is currently available on Steam, with a sale running today.