Hi everyone, 2024 was a transformative year for the studio, as we finally achieved relative stability and adequate resources to expand the scope of our projects and develop them at a healthy pace. Thank you for supporting us through this journey and the growing pains. I'd like to share my thoughts about our releases in 2024, as well as games the studio contributed to, and plans for 2025.

Dragon Ruins

As a long-time fan of David Allen's work (Mordor, Demise), I was surprised that no one created a successor to his games, so I decided to do it myself. Dragon Ruins started as a jam game to test the core gameplay and then reworked into an enhanced commercial version to test the waters. It became a hit for us and showed we weren't alone in wanting another game like this. We released a follow-up in January 2025, which also sold very well. https://store.steampowered.com/app/2929540/Dragon_Ruins/

Ringlorn Saga Gaiden

The original game shipped with a bonus mode called "The Tower of Rebirth" where you possessed enemies to reach the top floor. Ringlorn Saga Gaiden was created to develop this mode into a standalone open-world experience and work as a quick spin-off to keep fans busy until Ringlorn Saga: Book Two arrives. The idea took a few failed attempts, cuts, and shifts in design to make it work. Sadly, slower sales and prolonged development mean it's unlikely to break even anytime soon, but Book Two will still happen at some point in the future. https://store.steampowered.com/app/2262980/Ringlorn_Saga_Gaiden/

SKALD: Against the Black Priory

SKALD was developed by High North Studios and published by Raw Fury. I worked on it as a composer from 2019 until I finished my work in 2023. The game finally came out in 2024 and garnered a positive reception. Personally, I was surprised by how often the music was praised in reviews. Some of the later work was composed while dealing with blackouts, and I'd like to extend my thanks to the Kim family for providing me with a place to unwind, recharge my devices, and guzzle unhealthy amounts of kimchi jjigae. https://store.steampowered.com/app/1069160/SKALD_Against_the_Black_Priory/

Hazy Mind

I contributed some music to Hazy Mind in late 2023. To be honest, I'm yet to play the final version of the game, but the beta I played to get the feel for it had an amazing style. https://store.steampowered.com/app/2380340/Hazy_Mind/

2025 and Future Plans

We've released Dragon Ruins II in January. Since the original sold much better than initially anticipated, we had a decent budget to work with and enough time to research and develop features that we wanted to incorporate in the sequel. It sold much better than expected, and we're currently working on a standalone expansion to provide more stories for tired DRPG fans. https://store.steampowered.com/app/3293490/Dragon_Ruins_II/ Hanako's Flower Shop (by FantaJI) is coming out on April 25. I assisted with the QA, including checking the game on Steam Deck and checking the release candidate for errors. https://store.steampowered.com/app/1529640/Hanakos_Flower_Shop/ Apart from that, we are working on a big update for Demon Lord Reincarnation. Its commercial success took us by surprise, but internally, we were unsatisfied with the way it turned out, and player reviews reflect that. Since then, we've been quietly reworking the game from scratch, fixing elements that didn't work, and incorporating content and features that were cut to meet the deadline.
There's no ETA yet, but it's progressing at a steady pace. Once the update ships, the original version will be available on a beta branch.

Console Releases

You might've heard this before, but we are no longer working with Xitilon and are in talks with a new console publisher to handle our games. This means there's no ETA for future console releases until the deal is signed. Again, thank you for your support. --Romanus Surt of Graverobber Foundation

[ 2025-04-09 03:22:43 CET ] [ Original post ]

We're excited to announce Dragon Ruins II, our new project. Due to the positive feedback and demand for a deeper game, we've decided to make a new game and apply a few ideas we've wanted to execute for quite some time.

KEY FEATURES

• Take on various quests, from clearing the basements to facing ancient dragons
• Grow stronger through automatic battles with new twists
• Find new equipment and balance between power and speed
• Unlock new passive skills to get an edge over enemies
• Use Synergy attacks to get out of dire situations
• Revisit completed quests to see new stories unfold

Wishlist now: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3293490/Dragon_Ruins_II/

[ 2024-11-21 07:23:56 CET ] [ Original post ]

We're excited to announce Demon Lord Reincarnation Gaiden, our new game. Originally, this scenario was planned for a sequel, but it took off in its own direction and became an Ultima-style game with a new story. However, the initial draft was too good to abandon, so we turned it into a standalone expansion, similar to how Wizardry II was to the original Wizardry.

KEY FEATURES

• Enjoy a new scenario with new character classes and improved game systems
• Survive through brutal turn-based battles, where poor judgment can result in the permanent loss of a party member
• Unlock new skills in the heat of the battle, from devastating attacks to underhanded moves
• Inventory system with a variety of consumable items to buff, improve and customize your characters, including the ability to cheat death
• Come up with new party builds using new character classes and skills
• Find safe spots to regain your health and make sure the monsters won't get a drop on you
• Enjoy stylish visuals supported by atmospheric music and rocking battle tunes
• Read the manual, it's there for a reason!

Wishlist: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2783400/Demon_Lord_Reincarnation_Gaiden/

[ 2024-01-28 16:13:42 CET ] [ Original post ]

Das Geisterschiff and Der Geist series turn five years old today. In these experimental dungeon crawlers, you play as a mech pilot and complete dangerous missions in a dying world. These games offer unique wireframe-style visuals to simulate the "visual sensor" of your Robotic Combat Suit and atmospheric electronic music in the style of 80's electro-industrial. The series enjoyed limited success, but these games remain special to me, as they started my career as an indie game developer. All games are 66% off on Steam right now. https://store.steampowered.com/app/975230/Das_Geisterschiff__The_Ghost_Ship/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/1217070/Der_Geisterturm__The_Ghost_Tower/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/1581240/Der_Geisterjger__The_Ghost_Hunter/ Also, we are making a new Der Geist game. It's in the early stages of development. Thank you for your support over the years. -- Romanus Surt of Graverobber Foundation

[ 2023-09-19 14:10:17 CET ] [ Original post ]

We're excited to announce Ringlorn Saga Gaiden, our next game. Due to the warm reception and interest in the Temple of Rebirth bonus dungeon in the original game, we've decided to make a standalone RPG based on the possession mechanics. Ringlorn Saga Gaiden is an adventure RPG inspired by the Japanese PC classics. After dying in a decisive battle, your spirit is separated from your body, and you must exact your revenge on the Dark Lord by possessing his minions.

• A short-but-sweet Action RPG that won't hold your hand, nor waste your time
• Fight enemies to get stronger, possess their bodies, and use their abilities to survive
• Explore an open world, find items that will strengthen your spirit, and complete objectives in any order
• Simple but nuanced game mechanics and controls
• MSX-inspired 8-bit sound
• CRT filter for an authentic retro experience
• If you lose your way, pray to Morrigan

Wishlist: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2262980/Ringlorn_Saga_Gaiden/

[ 2023-02-24 18:06:42 CET ] [ Original post ]

We're excited to announce our next project. Ringlorn Saga is an adventure RPG inspired by the Japanese PC classics. Prince Gerhard the Brave embarks on a journey to the neighboring land to investigate the appearance of a magic barrier that surrounds it and his father's disappearance.

• A short-but-sweet Action RPG that won't hold your hand nor waste your time
• Explore the world, find new gear and valuable items, and get stronger while fighting a variety of enemies
• Stumble upon hidden events and quests
• Simple but nuanced mechanics and controls
• 8-bit style visuals and sound inspired by MSX
• CRT filter for an authentic retro experience
• If you ever get lost, have a drink with the bard

Wishlist: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2135990/Ringlorn_Saga/

[ 2022-09-02 00:41:17 CET ] [ Original post ]

To celebrate the Independence Day, we're offering two of our best games at the highest discount during the Ukrainian Game Festival. Now is the perfect time to give them a try. https://store.steampowered.com/app/1581240/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/1831020/ Stay tuned for the announcement of our new project later this year.

[ 2022-08-24 05:53:17 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS Pilots! As of today, Der Geisterjger is available on Linux. Enjoy!

[ 2021-09-28 01:36:47 CET ] [ Original post ]

Fixed jammer effects breaking if the game was saved/loaded within their area of effect.

[ 2021-09-20 23:03:20 CET ] [ Original post ]

• Fixed inability to use ice picks.
• Fixed minor typos.

[ 2021-09-13 06:34:37 CET ] [ Original post ]

• Fixed inability to use melee attacks if an obstacle was located between the attacker and the target.
• Fixed minor inconsistencies in the settings menu.
• Fixed a minor script bug that would retrigger the system repair disk pickup event.
• Fixed minor typos in event text.
• Fixed rare crashes during battles against large numbers of enemies.
• Added 'Auto Battle' action. It allows you to attack the first available target with movement taken into account.
• Added an additional tip to the loading screen.
• Improved menu handling.
• Improved settings menu.
• Improved introduction and credits sequence. Now you can skip individual lines by pressing any key.

[ 2021-09-06 18:05:41 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS Pilots! We've enjoyed a nice launch week and would like to share the latest news with you.

FIRST UPDATE IS ON THE WAY

The game launched in a polished state (yay), but not all player feedback was accounted for in the initial version. We're going to release an update that adds a few QoL changes to make your experience smoother. It will launch next week unless we encounter any major issues along the way.

LINUX VERSION

We're working on the Linux version and aiming to release it in late September. If you're interested in testing this version and confirming that it runs well on your configuration, let us know.

GAME + DLC BUNDLE AVAILABLE

In case you missed the launch sale, we've launched a bundle that contains the base game and the soundtrack with a 10% discount. https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/22462/Der_Geisterjger__DLC/

THE FUTURE

We're working on a small side project to regain our strength and give us time to think about the next big thing. At the same time, we are not done with Der Geisterjger. We have three additional scenarios drafted, and they will enter development if the base game reaches its initial sales target of 1,500 copies by January 31, 2022. Thank you for your support and interest in Der Geisterjger, Graverobber Foundation

[ 2021-09-02 17:10:58 CET ] [ Original post ]

Der Geisterjger is out now! Experience the evolution of Der Geist series with a new game, which offers the biggest and most complex game in the series to date. Explore a big dungeon full of secrets and dangerous encounters, analyze your enemies to determine how to deal with them, survive through tactical turn-based battles, and improve your performance in the field by training the pilot, gathering combat data, and upgrading your Robotic Combat Suit, weapons, and abilities. Prepare to fight for your survival in the dying world!

[ 2021-08-26 13:44:17 CET ] [ Original post ]

NOTE: Due to changes to game data, saves made prior to this version will not be compatible with it or with the full version. Changelog:

• Added a short tutorial to the start of the game.
• Added a turn indicator to the lower right corner of the screen.
• Fixed occasional incorrect turning behavior while using the 'STAY' command.
• Fixed broken Spy Drone graphics when it's in a destroyed state.
• Fixed cases where fire modes that adjust accuracy/evasion didn't report these changes correctly.
• Fixed incorrect printing of information in the Item Vendor.
• Fixed weapon jamming not working properly.
• Fixed rare crashes caused by a bug in the pathfinding system.
• Fixed player getting detected by enemies when allied turrets attack them.
• Adjusted pattern analysis speed.
• Adjusted rewards from killing enemies (experience / credits).
• Adjusted enemy identification speed.
• Adjusted dust effects.
• Adjusted camera shake.
• Increased pathfinding speed.
• Improved interface usability of the Repair Station and Item Vendor.
• Additional fixes and improvements.

[ 2021-08-13 17:47:38 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS pilots. In this issue we'll take a look at the additional functions of your Robotic Combat Suits, such as RCS Modules, Combat Stances and Ram Responses.

RCS Modules

Your RCS is equipped with helper modules to assist you in your assignments. Please keep in mind that due to shortage of supplies, most units are only equipped with the Disarming and Shield modules. If you find additional modules in the field, you can install them right away. Here's full list of available modules: DISARMING determines your ability to detect and disarm landmines. BOOSTER allows you to dash forward to close in on the enemy, jump over small pits, or ram the target twice. Consumes 25 energy points per use. Upgrading this module will reduce energy consumption. SHIELD reduces incoming damage regardless of the damage type. Upgrades will increase damage reduction. Consumes 10 energy points per turn. PULSE ATTACK launches an energy blast that damages all entities around the user within a small radius, consumes 50 energy points per use. Useful if you want to clear swarms of weaker enemies. Upgrades will increase damage output and attack radius.

Combat Stances

Combat stances allow you to adjust the performance of your RCS to fit the current situation. There are three combat stances: AIMING increases accuracy, reduces evasion. Useful if you want to make sure that your next attack has a higher chance of hitting the target. NORMAL raw representation of your current power. EVASIVE increases evasion, reduces accuracy. Useful if you want to avoid as much damage as possible, e.g. while switching weapons or running away from combat.

Ram Responses

Ram Response is an action triggered by successful evasion of the incoming ramming or melee attack. It can be triggered as many times as necessary during a single turn as long as you're successfully evading enemy attacks. There are five ram response types: GUARD no action will be performed on successful evasion. Instead, all damage from ramming and melee attacks is reduced by 25%. Useful when you want to reduce durability loss if it's impossible to evade incoming attacks. RETREAT step away from the attacker, gain some distance. Useful if the enemy is going to shoot after performing the ramming attack, making it easier to dodge ranged attacks. Be careful with this option, as you can accidentally fall into a pit. RETALIATE ram back, dealing damage to the attacker (and hopefully killing it). Good against targets lighter than you, won't do much against heavier targets. ATTACK shoot the attacker using the current weapon (and fire mode) with an accuracy penalty. Be careful with this while using explosive weapons. MELEE execute a melee attack with the beam sword. Watch your energy.

The End

Thank you for reading this issue of the Pilot's Guide, and expect another one soon. In the meantime, we'd like to ask you one question: if odds are stacked against you, will you fight to the death or run away? See you next time!

[ 2021-07-16 00:12:18 CET ] [ Original post ]

Changelog:

• Fixed inability to analyze control panels.
• Fixed softlock when exiting the credits screen.

[ 2021-07-15 03:50:38 CET ] [ Original post ]

Changelog:

• Fixed a perceived softlock due to confirmation window not appearing if the target evaded the ramming attack and retreated, leaving another target out in the open.
• Removed unnecessary loading screen before the introduction.
• Added occasional earthquakes.
• Credits are now accessible from the main menu.
• Additional fixes and improvements.

[ 2021-07-15 00:04:53 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS pilots. In this issue we'll go back to basics and take a look at the weapon stats. Please keep in mind that our units operate using the man-machine-weapon synergy, and in order to become a badass pilot, you'll need to pay attention to all three. And today, we'll take a look at the weapon side of things.

Weapon Stats

Damage

Average damage output per shot/pellet. The damage output can be increased by upgrading your weapon, analyzing enemy behavior, getting closer to the target (see: range), attacking from the side/back, or attacking from higher ground.

Accuracy

Determines the hit chance of the first bullet, deteriorates with each shot (see: stability), gets back to normal when the attack ends. Can be increased by upgrading your weapon, training your pilot, upgrading your RCS, attacking from higher ground, or getting closer to the enemy.

Range

Efficient range (in steps), affects damage and accuracy. If the target is closer than this value, it will receive more damage and will be easier to hit. If the target is further than this value, the accuracy and damage output will deteriorate. Can be increased by upgrading your weapon.

Evasion Penalty

Determines the limit to evasive maneuvers when this weapon is equipped, making it harder to evade incoming attacks. For example, light weapons like SMG will not reduce your evasion by much, but heavy weapons like the Bazooka will make you move like a slug, making you an easy target. Evasion penalty can be reduced by upgrading the weapon, or somewhat rectified by attacking from higher ground or switching the combat stance.

Stability

The penalty applied to the hit chance when using attacks that fire more than one shot. The higher it is, the lower the penalty will be, allowing to land more hits with attacks that use rapid fire. Can be increased by upgrading the weapon.

Upgrade Notes

Apart from improving your stats, upgrades can unlock new fire modes, giving you additional tools to deal with enemies. The best example of this is the addition of suppressive fire to the SMG it deals less damage, but gives additional evasion penalties to the target, allowing you to switch to a more effective weapon and take it down easily.

The End

Thank you for reading this issue of the Pilot's Guide, and expect another one soon. In the meantime, we'd like to ask you one question: if the surface became inhabitable again, would you move there or prefer to stay underground? Or would you rather move to an off-world colony? See you next time!

[ 2021-07-02 21:33:41 CET ] [ Original post ]

Changelog:

• Fixed a script bug that prevented the player from closing the terminals on Level 2.
• Fixed a bug that prevented the player from attacking turrets.
• Fixed camera clipping through walls when the player gets slammed against them.
• Added settings to the game menu.
• Added GUI assist function. It'll highlight Durability Count, Health Points, Energy, and Ammo when they reach a certain threshold.
• Added a switch between free and fixed map rotation.
• Added chromatic aberrations settings.
• Added the ability to change the dismiss key.
• Added suggestion of the next action depending on what's in front of the player.
• Added memorization of the last attacked target.

[ 2021-06-22 03:43:33 CET ] [ Original post ]

Changelog:

• Removed debug key (F12) from the controls.
• Added README file.

[ 2021-06-17 01:37:41 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS pilots. As of today, Der Geisterjger Demo is available to the public. It features two maps from the early part of the game and should take up to an hour to finish (or more, if you search every nook and cranny).

What can I do to support Der Geisterjger?

• Play the demo and send us feedback so we can make the game even better.
• Wishlist Der Geisterjger on Steam.
• Tell other people about the game.
• If you liked the demo but haven't played our previous titles, give them a try.

Enjoy!

[ 2021-06-16 16:56:07 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, RCS pilots. In this issue we'll go back to basics and take a look at the stats of your Robotic Combat Suit. Please keep in mind that our units operate using the man-machine-weapon synergy, and in order to become a badass pilot, you need to pay attention to all three. And today, we'll take a look at the man and machine side of things.

Robotic Combat Suit Stats

Durability Count (DC)

The 'health' of your Robotic Combat Suit. If it reaches zero, the unit will be destroyed. This stat can be increased by finding metal shards and armor plates and applying them at the repair stations. Or, if you are in need or urgent repairs, you can use your energy to apply them on the go. Please keep in mind that taking damage will slowly reduce your maximum durability, and low durability increases the chance of armor penetration, which will hurt the pilot.

Energy

Your source of power for various abilities, the Beam Sword, and the additional source of ammo for the Laser Rifle. It can be replenished via repair stations or by using portable batteries to restore it over time. You can increase the capacity by upgrading it at the repair station.

Accuracy

Determines how good your aiming systems are. It can be improved by upgrading your unit (and the final stat can be increased by improving the pilot's and weapon's accuracy). If the unit is damaged, this stat will be temporarily reduced until the unit is repaired.

Evasion

Determines how good you are at reducing incoming damage and dodging enemy attacks altogether. If it's high enough, you can hunker down between enemies and make them hit each other. It can also be improved by upgrading your unit (and the final stat can be increased by improving the pilot's evasion and reducing the evasion penalty of your weapons). If the unit is damaged, this stat will be temporarily reduced until the unit is repaired, and if the unit is hit, this stat will be reduced, but will go back to normal over time.

Recovery

Determines the speed of recovery from enemy attacks. Getting hit by bullets and explosives will destabilize the unit and make it easier for other enemies to hit you. Fortunately, this works against them too. This stat can also be improved by upgrading your unit and the final stat is increased by the pilot's recovery stat.

Weight

Represents the weight of your unit, and the final stat is determined by adding the weight of the pilot and equipment. It determines the power of your ramming attacks, the amount of damage you receive from them, and the possibility of pushing the enemy away from you. The outcome is determined by the difference between you and the target if your weight is higher, then you'll deal more damage, receive less, and will be able to push them away and make them land on a landmine or fall into a bottomless pit.

Pilot Stats

Health (HP)

'nuff said. If it reaches zero, the pilot will die, and low health will lead to accuracy and evasion penalties that can be removed by using medical kits or finding medical stations. Accuracy, Evasion and Recovery stats determine the pilot's competence in these fields and can positively (or negatively) affect the final results. The key to your survival is to make sure that both the RCS and the pilot are in good condition. Instead of growing through upgrades, these stats grow naturally through experience.

The End

Thank you for reading this issue of the Pilot's Guide, and expect another one very soon. Next time, we'll talk about the weapon side of things. The answers to questions found in the previous issue can be found below. [spoiler] [olist]

Facts don't care about your wishes: in order to leave the Earth, you'd have to be one of the brightest or richest people in the world.

Sunlight IS deadly and you can find proof by visiting the crumbling Upper Levels.

Anne Schaffer is presumed dead after The Seed exploded on its way back to Earth for unknown reasons. [/olist] [/spoiler] We have three more questions for you: [olist]

What is Project Iron Will?

Do you get visions of your demise?

Who was responsible for the bombing of the Southern Spaceport? [/olist] See you next time!

[ 2021-05-12 17:00:07 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, fellow RCS pilots. We were instructed to provide a quick guide through the expanded arsenal and give you a quick idea of what to expect. But before that, we have an important announcement: as you may have heard, the improvements to our Repair Stations allow you to upgrade your weapons with greater flexibility, allowing you to improve their damage output, accuracy, stability, and range, and also reducing their evasion penalty. We'd like to add that upon reaching a certain level, you will be able to access new fire modes. Now, let's take a look at the weapons issued to our pilots.

Recurring Weapons

First, let's take a look at the familiar combat arsenal issued up to 2074. These weapons are still issued to pilots, albeit with modifications and additions to improve their feel and expand their functionality.

Submachine Gun

MMP-K II 'Spitze' is a spray and pray kind of weapon. Lacks the punch of bigger guns and has limited range, but offers the fastest firing rate and does not hinder evasive maneuvers as much as other guns do. If you want to shower the enemy with bullets, this weapon is the right choice for you.

Laser Rifle

EL-5 'Feuer' offers decent range and firepower, but slow firing rate. Its the weapon of choice when you need to fry armored targets and open damaged doors. As an added bonus, it can use the internal battery of your Robotic Combat Suit as it energy source. With a few upgrades, you can unlock rapid fire and energy blast, making it the universal energy weapon out there.

Assault Rifle

AR-4 'Hoelle' is a universal weapon for any situation with good firepower, range, and firing rate. However, its ammo is expensive, requiring a certain degree of skill to make each shot count. Take good care of it, and you'll be able to make it even more powerful.

Bazooka

BZ-3 'Zerstoerer' offers devastating power, but requires reloading after each shot. The big gun, usually reserved for the big enemy targets. Deals tons of damage, but requires reloading after each shot and makes evasive maneuvers much harder. Upgrades will increase its damage output, making it a dangerous weapon. Just keep your distance and try to not blow yourself up along with your target.

New Weapons

As of 2075, we are issuing 2 new guns and 1 melee weapon to cover common complaints, such as lack of meaningful ways to defend yourself at very close range or shoot enemies from far away.

Shotgun

SF-12 'Bruch' tears through enemies, but burns through available ammo very quickly. Useful at close range, almost impossible to dodge fully, and can be upgraded to increase its firing rate.

Sniper Rifle

SRZ-1 'Horizont' is the long range solution to your problems. Offers good range and firepower, but makes you move like a slug and feels very cumbersome at close range.

Beam Sword

BS-4 'Grunzen' cuts through enemies and delivers tons of damage, but burns through available energy very quickly. Useful as a last resort weapon in case you get cornered.

The End

Thank you for reading this issue of the Pilot's Guide, and expect another one very soon. In the meantime, we have three popular questions for you: [olist]

Do you want to stay on Earth, or do you want to transfer to an off-world colony?

Do you believe that sunlight is actually deadly?

Where's Anne Schaffer now? [/olist] See you next time!

[ 2021-04-29 17:00:34 CET ] [ Original post ]

We'd like to announce Der Geisterjger, out latest game and our most mechanically complex title to date that will give the fans of tactical turn-based dungeon crawling another scenario filled with brutal labyrinth warfare. We'll go into deeper detail about new features in the coming weeks. Wishlist here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1581240/Der_Geisterjger__The_Ghost_Hunter/

[ 2021-04-21 14:22:14 CET ] [ Original post ]