If you have ever looked at a 1930s detective comic and thought it needed more flying cars and magical fuel, then Seismic Squirrel has been reading your dream journal. Their upcoming title, Aether & Iron, is shaping up to be one of the most stylish and gritty experiences of 2026. Scheduled to drop on March 31, 2026, this game isn’t just another RPG; it’s a Decopunk Narrative RPG that feels like someone tossed BioShock, Disco Elysium, and a high-speed car chase into a blender. You play as Gia, a veteran smuggler trying to survive the vertical, floating concrete jungle of an alternate-history New York City.
New York City, But Make It Float
Forget the subway; in this version of the Big Apple, everything is suspended in the sky thanks to a mysterious substance called Aether. The discovery of this anti-gravitational technology turned the city into a towering, multi-layered metropolis where the rich literally look down on everyone else. The aesthetic is pure Art Deco—think sharp lines, neon glows, and a heavy dose of noir atmosphere. But don’t let the shiny gold trim fool you. Underneath the glamour is a seedy underbelly filled with crime syndicates, corrupt politicians, and authoritarian barons who are all vying for a piece of the pie. As Gia, you’re caught right in the middle of a massive conspiracy that could change the fate of the city forever.
Dice Rolls and Dirty Deals
The gameplay is a fascinating mix of deep narrative storytelling and tactical turn-based vehicular combat. When you aren’t boosting contraband through secret sky-paths, you are navigating complex social situations where your words are just as dangerous as your weapons. The game uses a dice-driven system for dialogue and decisions, tied to your three core attributes: Hustle, Smarts, and Brass. Whether you are trying to charm a guard or intimidate a mob boss, your success often comes down to the luck of the roll. It keeps the tension high because even the best-laid plans can go sideways if you catch a bad break, forcing you to think on your feet and live with the consequences of your failures.
More Than Just a Getaway Driver
Your vehicle is more than just a ride in this game; it is your lifeblood and your primary weapon. You get to assemble and manage a fleet of aether-powered vehicles, which can be customized to fit your specific playstyle. If you want to be a ghost in the wind, you can focus on speed and smoke dispensers. If you prefer to settle arguments with firepower, you can bolt on some flamethrowers or heavy armor. During the turn-based combat sequences, you’ll lead a crew of recruited companions—each with their own backstories and talents—to outmaneuver enemies on a tactical grid. You even have to watch out for environmental hazards like falling platforms or chaotic traffic, which can be used to ram your opponents into a fiery grave.
The Countdown to the Clouds
The writing team behind this project is seriously impressive, featuring veterans who have worked on heavy hitters like Mass Effect and Far Cry. This gives the branching narrative a level of polish and emotional weight that’s rare in indie titles. Between the full voice acting and the original score by Grammy-winning composers, the immersion is real. If you’re itching to get behind the wheel, there is already a free demo available on Steam that gives you a solid two-hour taste of the smuggling life. Mark your calendars for the end of March, because Aether & Iron looks like the kind of high-stakes adventure that won’t just let you play the story—it makes you survive it.
