Indie developer Kniv Studio just dropped the demo trailer for STARDUST: Wish of Witch, their upcoming pixel art strategy RPG. The demo arrives January 20, 2026 on Steam and STOVE platforms, giving players a first taste of this fate-driven tactical adventure just weeks after the reveal. Expect classic SRPG grid combat wrapped in a delicately crafted pixel world with characters whose personal stories unfold alongside epic battles.
Classic SRPG Revival with Modern Flair
STARDUST delivers turn-based tactical combat across beautifully illustrated battlefields where positioning equals survival. Players command distinct characters with unique abilities and backstories, each growing through battlefield trials and personal arcs. The trailer showcases dramatic enemy encounters, environmental hazards, and combo-based attacks that reward smart positioning.
Kniv Studio emphasizes breathing pixel art – subtle animations bring environments to life beyond static backgrounds. Weather effects alter battlefield dynamics while character sprites convey emotion through tiny details. This attention to craft elevates STARDUST above typical retro throwbacks into genuine homage territory.
Stars and Fate Drive the Narrative
The central premise revolves around cosmic destiny. Players navigate a fantasy world where stars dictate character fates, forcing tough choices between personal growth and strategic necessity. Trailer snippets hint at moral dilemmas – sacrifice a key unit for victory or preserve story-important characters at tactical cost?
Expect deep relationship systems. Characters build bonds through shared battles, unlocking combo attacks and story branches. The developer’s focus on ‘sweeping fantasy journey’ suggests Trails-like narrative depth within accessible SRPG structure – perfect for players craving story without 100-hour commitments.
January 20 Demo Details
The free demo launches simultaneously on Steam and STOVE, letting players experience early chapters with full combat systems and character progression. Expect 2-4 hours of content showcasing core mechanics plus teaser content for later acts. Demo progress likely carries over to full release.
- Full tactical combat with positioning and combos
- Character progression and relationship systems
- Early story chapters with branching dialogue
- Steam achievements and trading cards
- Dynamic environments with weather effects
Developer Background and Expectations
Kniv Studio represents a fresh face in tactical RPG development. Their debut title shows clear love for Fire Emblem, Tactics Ogre, and classic pixel SRPGs while targeting modern presentation standards. The trailer suggests generous production values – orchestral soundtrack, voiced cutscenes, and cinematic battle animations.
Q2 2026 full release targets PC first with console ports likely following strong demo reception. Multi-language support from launch including English, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese signals global ambitions beyond Asian markets.
| Platform | Demo Date | Full Release | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | January 20, 2026 | Q2 2026 | Demo, Achievements, Cloud Saves |
| STOVE | January 20, 2026 | Q2 2026 | Korean Market Focus |
| PS5 / Switch | TBA | Likely 2027 | Console Optimized |
Why SRPG Fans Should Pay Attention
2026 already shapes up as strong year for tactical RPGs. STARDUST enters crowded field alongside Unicorn Overlord expansions and potential Fire Emblem Switch 2 debut. Kniv Studio’s demo timing proves smart – early January gives players fresh content while building wishlists months before launch.
Genre fans praise the trailer presentation. Dynamic sprite work, environmental storytelling, and clear UI suggest accessible difficulty curve welcoming newcomers. Veterans appreciate visible depth in unit promotion trees and terrain bonuses shown during brief skirmishes.
FAQs
When does the STARDUST demo release?
January 20, 2026 on Steam and STOVE platforms. Download immediately to experience early chapters with full combat systems and character progression.
What genre is STARDUST: Wish of Witch?
Turn-based single-player pixel SRPG. Think Fire Emblem meets Tactics Ogre with relationship systems and environmental battlefield tactics.
Will console versions release?
PC launches Q2 2026. PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox ports likely follow based on demo reception and publisher deals.
Does demo progress save to full game?
Steam demos typically carry over bonuses or save data. Expect character levels or items transferring based on industry standard.
What languages get full support?
English, Japanese, Korean, Simplified/Traditional Chinese from launch. European languages likely via community patches if needed.
Is STARDUST demo demanding on PC hardware?
No. Pixel art SRPGs run smoothly on integrated graphics. Expect Steam Deck Verified status given genre optimization.
Who published STARDUST: Wish of Witch?
Kniv Studio self-publishes. No third-party involvement confirmed, allowing creative freedom across story and mechanics.
Your Tactical Fantasy Awaits
STARDUST: Wish of Witch arrives at perfect moment. Tactical RPG renaissance hungers for fresh voices, and Kniv Studio delivers compelling pitch through demo timing and visual polish. January 20 offers risk-free preview of Q2’s potential standout.
Mark calendars. Pixel SRPGs thrive when passion projects escape niche corners. STARDUST carries ingredients for genre elevation – heartfelt stories, smart combat, gorgeous presentation. Demo performance determines console fates and marketing pushes, but early signs point upward.
Clear 2-4 hours January 20. Fate awaits those willing to command stars and soldiers across pixel battlefields. Wishlist now, play soon.