Steam Next Fest is always full of surprises, and this time one game instantly stood out for me — Rubinite. At first glance, it looks like another dark fantasy Soulslike, but once you start playing, you realize it has its own identity. This isn’t a long grind through gloomy worlds. It’s a tight, focused boss rush experience that rewards precision, patience, and style.
You play as Ruby, a princess who escaped from the Scarlet Kingdom and is now fighting her way back through waves of terrifying bosses. There’s no room to relax. Every encounter pushes you to think fast, dodge perfectly, and strike at the right moment. Each boss feels unique, with distinct patterns and personalities that make every fight memorable.
What really grabbed me is how smooth the gameplay feels. The controls are responsive, and the combat animations are sharp. You always know that if you make a mistake, it’s on you, not the game. It captures the satisfaction of classic boss rush games like Titan Souls, but with the flair and tone of a dark fantasy epic.
Visually, Rubinite looks fantastic. The isometric camera gives a clear view of the action, while the moody art direction makes each environment feel alive. It manages to feel both elegant and brutal at the same time — a mix that few indie games pull off this well.
The demo alone is enough to get hooked. There’s no unnecessary padding or side content, just pure combat that demands your full attention. After playing, it’s easy to see why so many players are talking about it. Rubinite might not be a traditional Soulslike, but it delivers that same rush of adrenaline and accomplishment that fans of the genre crave.
If you’re looking for something challenging, stylish, and incredibly satisfying, Rubinite deserves a spot on your wishlist. It’s one of those indie titles that quietly steals the show — a dark little gem that reminds you why action games can be so addictive.