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A First Hands-On Look at STARDUST: Wish of Witch
If you have been yearning for a strategy role-playing game to dive into, there is good news.STARDUST: Wish of Witch‘s first public playable demo is now available on PC via Steam. Developed by Kniv Studio, the demo marks an important milestone for the upcoming turn-based strategy RPG, offering players an early look at its systems, presentation, and narrative tone.
The demo is expected to deliver around 1 to 1.5 hours of gameplay, introducing the game’s core mechanics and early story beats. Players will be able to explore grid-based tactical combat layered with a card-driven counter and combo system, alongside cinematic cutscenes and story-focused progression.
For Kniv Studio, this demo also represents the studio’s first major public release, as STARDUST: Wish of Witch is its debut commercial title.
A Modern Take on Classic SRPG Foundations
At its core, the game draws heavily from classic SRPG design while introducing modern twists to keep combat dynamic. Battles unfold on traditional tactical grids, but are expanded through a card system that influences counters, combos, and reactive decision-making.
The demo introduces how character roles, positioning, and card interactions combine to shape each encounter. Rather than relying purely on raw statistics, players are encouraged to read enemy intent and respond strategically, turning the flow of battle through well-timed counters and ability chains.
This approach aims to make combat approachable for newcomers while still offering the layered depth expected by long-time SRPG fans.
Pixel Art Presentation With Cinematic Ambition
One of the game’s defining features is its visual direction. STARDUST: Wish of Witch uses detailed pixel art paired with full sprite animations and cinematic camera work, creating a sense of motion and scale that goes beyond traditional 2D presentation.
During combat, ultimate abilities trigger dramatic 2D animated set pieces that punctuate key moments on the battlefield. Outside of combat, story sequences use careful framing and animation to convey character growth and emotional beats.
The demo provides an early showcase of how these visual elements support the narrative rather than serving as simple stylistic flair.
A Story Shaped by Fate and Companionship
STARDUST: Wish of Witch is set in a fantasy world shaped by stars and destiny. The story follows the tomboyish warrior Star and her childhood friend, the mage Yu, as they set out on a journey tied to the mysteries of wishes and fate.
Through the demo, players will experience the opening chapter of this adventure, meet early companions, and begin to uncover the themes that drive the narrative forward. Character interactions and personal growth play a central role, with the game positioning its story as a steady journey rather than a single dramatic revelation.
The emphasis on companionship and shared progress is woven directly into both narrative scenes and party-based combat.
The complete version of STARDUST: Wish of Witch is currently planned for release on PC via Steam at a later date.
