The Alabaster Dawn demo is finally here, and gaming enthusiasts have good reason to get excited. Radical Fish Games just confirmed that their highly anticipated action RPG will drop its first public demo on September 18, 2025, at 3pm CET (6am PT / 9am ET) on Steam.
For fans of CrossCode, this news feels like Christmas morning. The same studio that delivered one of 2018’s most beloved indie RPGs is back with what promises to be an even more polished experience.
What Makes the Alabaster Dawn Demo Special
This isn’t your typical game demo that gives you 20 minutes of tutorial content. Radical Fish Games has crafted something substantial that respects your time while showcasing their vision.
The demo offers 1.5 to 2.5 hours of gameplay split into two distinct sections. The first part drops you right into the game’s opening, and here’s the kicker – any progress you make will carry over to the full release. No need to replay those early hours when the complete game launches.
The second section jumps ahead in the story to highlight key gameplay mechanics, including dungeon exploration. While this progress won’t transfer to the main game, it gives you a taste of what lies ahead without spoiling the journey.
Combat System and Weapons
Combat has always been Radical Fish Games’ strong suit, and the Alabaster Dawn demo showcases this beautifully. You’ll get hands-on experience with four different weapon types – two melee and two ranged options that you can switch between instantly during combat.
The game builds on CrossCode’s successful formula while introducing new mechanics. Expect fast-paced battles that reward skill and timing over button mashing. The four elements system returns, giving each weapon unique properties and tactical applications.
Enemies and Boss Encounters
Don’t expect the Alabaster Dawn demo to go easy on you. The experience includes nine different enemy types, each requiring different strategies to defeat effectively. More impressively, you’ll face off against four boss encounters that showcase the game’s challenging but fair difficulty curve.
These aren’t throwaway encounters either. Each boss fight demonstrates different aspects of the combat system and serves as a preview of the epic confrontations waiting in the full release.
The Story Behind the Action
Alabaster Dawn takes place in a world transformed by catastrophe. The shadow of Nyx has fallen, turning the landscape into a wasteland and causing gods and people to vanish mysteriously. You play as Juno, the Outcast Chosen, who awakens to an impossible mission – restore everything that was lost.
This premise sets up what promises to be an engaging narrative about rebuilding civilization, advancing technology, and uncovering the mysteries behind the world’s transformation. If CrossCode’s storytelling is any indication, expect plenty of surprising twists and emotional moments.
Building on CrossCode’s Legacy
Radical Fish Games isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel with their follow-up to CrossCode. Instead, they’re refining and expanding on what made their debut title special. The signature 2.5D art style returns with enhanced 3D perspectives that make platforming and exploration more intuitive.
The puzzle-solving elements that defined CrossCode’s dungeons are back, now enhanced by the improved visual perspective and new weapon mechanics. Expect environmental challenges that require creative thinking and precise execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly does the Alabaster Dawn demo release?
The demo launches on September 18, 2025, at 3pm CET (6am PT / 9am ET) exclusively on Steam.
Will my demo progress carry over to the full game?
Yes, but only for the first section of the demo. The second part showcases later content, and that progress resets to avoid spoilers.
How long is the Alabaster Dawn demo?
The complete demo experience offers approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours of gameplay across both sections.
Do I need to have played CrossCode first?
No, Alabaster Dawn is a separate story that newcomers can enjoy. However, CrossCode fans will appreciate the familiar mechanics and improved features.
What platforms will support the demo?
Currently, the demo is confirmed for PC via Steam only. Console versions haven’t been announced yet.
When will the full version of Alabaster Dawn release?
Radical Fish Games hasn’t announced a specific release date, but they’re considering an early access launch in late 2025, similar to CrossCode’s development approach.
Is the Alabaster Dawn demo free to play?
Yes, the demo will be completely free to download and play on Steam.
Conclusion
The Alabaster Dawn demo represents more than just a preview – it’s a statement of intent from a developer that understands what made their previous game special. With substantial content, meaningful progression, and refined mechanics, this demo should satisfy both longtime fans and curious newcomers.
Mark September 18 on your calendar and prepare for another adventure from the team that brought you CrossCode. Based on what we’ve seen so far, Alabaster Dawn might just surpass its predecessor in every meaningful way.