Kingdoms of the Dump, an indie RPG inspired by SNES classics, has a unique origin story rooted in the everyday lives of its creators, Roach and Everdredd, who worked as janitors for over a decade. Drawing heavily from their experiences with garbage and discarded items, they imagined the “Lands of Fill,” a magical, trash-filled world that became the game’s setting.
Roach described the creative process as deeply personal and serendipitous, often inspired by mundane surroundings like breakroom junk piles transforming into core characters and story elements. Together with producer Matt Everdredd, they shaped a rich narrative following Dustin Binsley, the trashcan squire, as he journeys across the Five and a Half Kingdoms of the Dump to rescue the trash-picked King and combat the Toxic Grimelin Army.
Kingdoms of the Dump is a turn-based RPG featuring strategic combat with tile effects and timed hits, reminiscent of beloved JRPGs like Earthbound and Chrono Trigger. The game incorporates platforming and adventure elements, including jumping and climbing, adding depth to exploration and encounters.
Players have access to a diverse cast with unique abilities, enabling dynamic gameplay shifts such as cleaning junk as Dustin, shooting as librarian Walker, and climbing as thief Ratavia. The game also features a large Mode-7-inspired overworld map to traverse by land, sea, and air.
The art style embraces an authentic SNES aesthetic, enriched by the contributions of artists DM404, Cosmocha33, Evgenij, and Francis Coulombe. The music balances influences from Mitsuda and Uematsu, contributing to a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
Despite its redirection towards a whimsical theme, the game takes its world-building seriously, creating a “garbage coat of paint” that houses genuine heart and complexity underneath.
FAQs
What inspired Kingdoms of the Dump?
The creators’ personal experiences as janitors and a love of classic JRPGs inspired the game’s theme and mechanics.
What is the gameplay style?
Turn-based RPG combat with tile effects and timed hits, combined with platforming and exploration elements.
When does Kingdoms of the Dump release?
The game launched on November 18, 2025, on PC, Mac, and Linux.
What platforms is it available on?
PC, Mac, and Linux.
Who are the main characters?
Dustin Binsley (trashcan squire), Ratavia (thief rat), Walker Jacket (librarian), Lute (broken instrument), Cerulean (wizard of the wash), and Musk (stinkbug infiltration expert).
Conclusion
Kingdoms of the Dump presents a heartfelt and inventive take on classic JRPG conventions, infused with the creators’ unique personal story and world inspired by trash and discarded items. Through its detailed pixel art, engaging combat system, and nostalgic ambiance, it captures the spirit of old-school RPGs while standing out with its original setting and heartfelt narrative.