If you’ve been scrolling through Steam lately looking for something that isn’t just another medieval fantasy or neon-soaked cyberpunk dystopia, you might have done a double-take at Rakshasa.
Developed by Odd Compass Studio, this upcoming first-person RPG is doing something genuinely fresh: it’s taking the grit and mystery of modern-day India and layering it with a thick, terrifying coat of ancient Hindu mythology. Think Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines, but instead of moody Seattle alleys, you’re navigating the bustling streets, luxury high-rises, and crumbling slums of a modern Indian city.
Here is why this indie gem should be on your radar.
The Vibe: “Digicam” Noir
One of the first things you’ll notice about Rakshasa is its look. The developers are leaning into a specific early-2000s digicam aesthetic. It’s dense, urban, and a little bit “lo-fi” in a way that makes the supernatural elements feel surprisingly grounded.
You play as someone whose dormant Tantrik powers are accidentally kicked awake after an illegal excavation at a nearby ruin. Suddenly, you aren’t just a face in the crowd; you’re a player in a hidden war between rogue sadhus, scheming asuras, and flesh-eating monsters that have been hiding in plain sight.
Gameplay: Tactical and Mean
Don’t expect a button-masher. Rakshasa features brutal turn-based combat that rewards strategy and timing.
- The Wheel of Dharma: A unique combat mechanic where you have to time your inputs on a gauge to land critical hits or trigger powerful Tantrik techniques.
- Talisman Builds: You can customize your playstyle using talismans that do everything from widening your critical hit window to helping you pick locks or pass occult knowledge checks.
- Mudra and Rituals: Instead of standard “fireballs,” your magic system is rooted in traditional mudras (hand gestures) and rituals, making the “wizard” fantasy feel distinct and culturally rich.
Choice and Consequences
Odd Compass Studio is emphasizing that this is a narrative-driven experience. You’ll be navigating a web of shifting alliances where every major character has their own agenda. The world is divided into factions—some human, some very much not—and your decisions will determine who survives the deepening conspiracy threatening the city.
Why We’re Excited
It’s rare to see an RPG dive this deep into Indian folklore without it being a historical epic. Seeing Vetalas and Pisachas popping up in a modern urban landscape feels like the kind of “Urban Fantasy” we need more of.
If you’re a fan of immersive sims or RPGs where the atmosphere is thick enough to cut with a knife, this is definitely one to add to your wishlist.
