If rebuilding a sinister temple dedicated to a dark god sounds like your kind of new year’s project, Architect of Ruin has just what you’re looking for. Crafted by former Valve and Epic veterans now at Dead Money LLC, and published by strategy specialists Hooded Horse, this hand-drawn colony sim dives deep into dark fantasy territory with an unmistakable style. Imagine Dwarf Fortress tilted on its side, infused with the twisted charm of Dungeon Keeper, and you start to get the picture.
The visuals alone are enough to draw you in—trees with thick, shadowy foliage that seem to breathe with malevolence, perfectly fitting for a game where every detail matters. Those same trees aren’t just for show, either, as chopping them down feeds into your arcane construction efforts, creating icons and artifacts drenched in mystery and power. Architect of Ruin seems poised to carve out its own niche, combining intricate strategy with an eerie atmosphere that sticks with you long after you’ve put the controller down.
Source: rockpapershotgun.com
