Veteran developers unveil a new dark fantasy isometric action RPG, promising to showcase their mastery of the genre in an upcoming early access release.
A group of seasoned developers, known for their work on the classic Diablo games, has come together to create an exciting new isometric action-RPG titled Darkhaven. This marks the first release from Moon Beast Productions, and it promises to incorporate elements that fans of their previous titles will likely appreciate.
Key figures in the development include Erich Schaefer and Brian Fitzpatrick, who contributed to the original Diablo and its groundbreaking sequel, along with Philip Shenk and Peter Hu, who played significant roles in Diablo 2. Their experience also spans projects like Hellgate: London and the Torchlight series, providing them with a wealth of knowledge in the genre.
“This project embodies everything we’ve learned about ARPGs over the past two decades, showcasing what’s achievable when those insights merge with modern technology,” says Shenk, co-founder and CEO of Moon Beast Productions. “We’re crafting a world that remembers your actions, reflects the consequences of your victories and defeats, and weaves narratives unique to your gameplay experience.”
Set in a post-post-apocalyptic wasteland, players will explore environments reclaimed by nature, remnants of ancient civilizations, and face foes emerging from other dimensions through portals. The game will feature “ecological rules” for each area, whether it’s a swamp or a volcanic landscape, creating a “rich implied history” throughout the game world.
“In Darkhaven, we aim to create items that unlock new possibilities, gear that prompts you to rethink your build and strategy, and even how you approach gameplay,” adds Peter Hu, president of Moon Beast Productions. “Finding something powerful should be thrilling and inspiring, rather than just translating into minor percentage boosts.” Combat will focus on strategic and tactical thinking rather than mindless grinding. Marketed as a “next-generation ARPG,” Darkhaven will feature procedurally generated and fully destructible environments, ensuring that each playthrough feels unique.
The game embodies an ambitious evolution of the Diablo formula, crafted by developers deeply familiar with the mechanics and concepts. The plan is to enter early access soon, with a Kickstarter campaign on the horizon to help support this endeavor.
