- Get 30% off through Bullet Fest! Offer ends 15 June at 10am Pacific. - 8 June 2026
We’re offering a discount for this event, where your participation is highly valued. Don’t leave it on your wishlist :) Play now!Discord: https://discord.gg/jg3js5GztXPrices vary by region. Check yours below.
- Bye Bye Alkhemikal, Hello Noto Serif v.3.4.1.2 - 2 June 2026
Another patch. Mostly cleanup, readability fixes, and finally sorting out the minigame mess. ReadabilitySwitched the default font from Alkhemikal to Noto Serif. A lot of you said the old one got rough to read during longer sessions, so here we are. The pixel font still looks great in screenshots, it just wasn't doing your eyes any favors at 2am. AudioCombat was playing menu musics again. Fixed. (Yes, again. We thought we caught this last patch. We did not.) MinigamesDid a big pass on these: Minigame intros added. A popup now appears before every minigame explaining what it is, what you win, and what happens if you fail. You press a button to start it. No more getting blindsided by a mechanic you've never seen before. Count the Flashes was telling you to press LB on gamepad. It's actually LT. Fixed. Hold to Charge said "Hold E" on gamepad when it should've said "Hold A". Fixed. Collectio…
- New Enemies, Languages and New Features v.3.4.1.1 - 25 May 2026
A big one this time. New enemies, five new languages, a reworked tutorial, and a long list of fixes. Thanks to everyone who reported bugs. Most of this list exists because of you. Thank you so much for your feedback :)New Features & OptionsEasy Aim added. Toggle it on in Options, and targeting gets simpler. Light attacks only hit dark enemies (if there is no light enemy between the player and the dark enemy :) ), and dark attacks only hit light ones (if there is no dark enemy between the player and the light enemy :) ).Key Bindings screen added. You can now remap your controls.Tooltip toggle added to Options. Turn off tips once you know the ropes.Minigames are now deduplicated and run through a proper randomized rotation, so you won't see the same one back to back.Added a "simple click" sound on every menu navigation for cleaner UI feedback.New LanguagesSimplified ChineseJapaneseKoreanR…
- Bugfix v.3.2.2.3 - 8 May 2026
GameplayFixed multiple pylon-related progression issuesImproved elite enemy visibility and attack readabilityFixed several minigame interaction and timing problemsAdjusted orb and effect brightness for better clarityImproved boss projectile and attack feedbackFixed remaining sprite visibility after certain boss fightsUI & UXFixed incorrect in-game tips and remindersImproved popup timing and wording clarityFixed difficulty setting descriptionsImproved intro and map flow readabilityAudioFixed repeated button hover sound effectsCollision & AIFixed enemies getting stuck on walls in specific roomsImproved chase tool and collision behavior for elite enemiesFixed streamer push interaction issuesVisual FixesFixed green star display after completed pylonsImproved pylon countdown visual feedbackAdjusted elite mark and attack indicator visibilityJoin Our DiscordWe’re actively improving the game ba…
- Major Update is Live – UI, SFX, Gameplay Polish - 1 May 2026
We’ve just rolled out a major update for Torch of Shadows, focused on making the game clearer, smoother, and more satisfying to play.This patch is all about feel, readability, and feedback.Gameplay & SystemsSkill bar improved and resized for better readabilityHealth, dash, and level bars polishedObjectives now accessible during pauseBoss warnings improved (timing, position, animation)Minimap and pylon info layout refinedRun start flow improvedCombat & FeelDash ready SFX addedBoss incoming warning SFX addedCombat and enemy SFX reorganizedAttack sounds optimized to prevent overlap/spamRepetitive sounds shortened or adjustedImproved hit feedback and responsivenessClarity & Player GuidanceIn-game tips system added (shown once per run)Build guidance tips addedUpgrade descriptions improvedSkill clarity and UI readability improvedImportant actions now have clearer feedbackUI / UX PolishButtons…
- Enemy Spawn & Death Animations v.3.3.1.4 - 17 April 2026
This update focuses on visual polish, audio consistency, and enemy improvements.UI & Quality of LifeTrophy claim button added (its absence was causing a visual bug in the boss fight)Map info pop-ups expanded horizontally for better readabilityAudioLight missile attack sound now matches the dark version (otherwise it sounds louder than dark)All SFX standardized to 192 kbps / 16-bit / 48 kHzVisualsSplash screen updatedBranding icons updatedGameplay & ContentNew enemy type added (Exploder)Enemy spawn animations addedEnemy death animations addedFixes & ImprovementsFixed sun and moon overlapping issue in the HUDIf you want to report any issues or contact us, join our Discord Channel!Discord: https://discord.gg/jg3js5GztX
- Gameplay Improvements - Patch Notes v.3.3.1.3 - 15 April 2026
This update focuses on polishing the endgame experience, improving gameplay flow, and adding impactful audio feedback.Endgame & CinematicsEndgame cinematic and flow improvedNew altar interaction and confirmation UI addedPost-cinematic UI and achievement integration updatedEndgame voiceover addedUI & Quality of LifePop-ups (map info, trophy, minigames) are now centered and cleanerKey binding responsiveness improved in difficulty selectionProgress indicators (sacred symbols, minigames, zone score) are now clearerFixed upgrade screen delay caused by roll effectGameplay ImprovementsIncreased spawn rate after main upgradesAdjusted boss health (debuff applied)Improved difficulty and progression feedbackAudio & FeedbackAdded fracture SFXAdded boss phase transition SFXAdded guardian death SFXAdded UI interaction sounds (map entry, soul/pylon confirmation)Added boss attack SFX for selected abili…
- Patch Notes 3.3.1.2 - 12 April 2026
This update brings competitive play to Torch of Shadows.Achievements are live, leaderboards are active, and it’s time to prove yourself.Step in, push your limits, and show what you’ve got against players worldwide.New FeaturesAchievements are now liveGlobal leaderboard is now active! Compete with players worldwide!UI & Quality of LifeBoss phases are now displayed in the UIIn-game control key reminders have been addedSkill tree UI, minigames, and trophies polishedThe tutorial voice-over has been addedGameplay & ContentFixed various bugs in boss fightsMap tilesets visually improvedBosses' health has been reducedDisclaimerIf your Shift or RB key breaks, it’s not our fault (This was suggested by our community member HK.)ImportantYour progression has not been reset due to the addition of achievements and leaderboards. This means that you may need to replay certain sections in order to unlock…
- Patch Notes 3.2.1.3 - 4 April 2026
Boss & Arena UpdatesReworked boss encounters: no more single-type arenasAdded 10+ unique boss arenas with visual improvementsBoss arenas now adapt to behavior:Smaller arenas for stationary bossesLarger arenas for chasing bossesBug FixesFixed various non-critical (non-lethal) bugsMinor system bug fixesVisual ImprovementsSmall visual polish and refinements across the gameSmall UI improvementsIf you want to report any issues or contact to us, Join our Discord Channel!Discord: https://discord.gg/jg3js5GztX
- Patch Notes 3.2.1.1 - 2 April 2026
Major performance improvementsFixed severe FPS dropsNow playable on Steam DeckIf you want to report any issues or contact to us, Join our Discord Channel!Discord: https://discord.gg/jg3js5GztX
- Torch of Shadows is Out Now! - 31 March 2026
After a long process of development, testing, refinement and improvement, Torch of Shadows is finally available on Steam. This is our first game, and the process has been a huge learning experience for us. Every system, every enemy and every map has undergone multiple iterations to reach its current form. At its core, Torch of Shadows is all about balance: You must balance Light and Dark, adapt your build and survive relentless waves in fast-paced 15-minute runs. Every decision you make affects both your current run and your long-term progression.You will:Fight through chaotic waves of Light and Dark creaturesMake build-defining choices every levelFace unique bosses at critical momentsProgress through dual upgrade pathsExplore maps that evolve with difficulty and eventsThis is just the beginning.We’ll continue improving the game, adding new content, and shaping the experience together w…
- Patch Notes 3.0.1.1 - 27 March 2026
Combat & Boss ImprovementsBoss Fight Animations Added & RefurbishedMain Character Death Animation AddedAI & Gameplay FixesMobs Movement Bug FixedGeneral Gameplay Feel ImprovedSystems & MinigamesPylon Minigames Bug FixedSoul Capture Minigames Bug FixedWorld & Visual UpdatesMaps RefurbishedNew Props AddedProgression & SystemsEquipable Trophies Bug FixedNew FeaturesHardness Mode Added (10+ Difficulty Modifiers)UI & PolishGeneral UI Bug FixesGeneral performance optimization
- Launching on March 31st - 24 March 2026
There are only seven days left until the launch of Torch of Shadows. Reaching this point has meant a great deal to us. This is our first game, and we have learned far more than we ever expected throughout this journey. We have faced difficult moments, made many changes, improved the game time and time again, and kept moving forward step by step. Building Torch of Shadows has taught us not just how to create a game, but also how to listen better, improve more quickly and maintain our commitment even when things felt overwhelming. Every map, boss, mechanic, visual update and system rework has helped to shape the game into something that we are truly proud to share. We know this is only the beginning. Even after launch, we will continue to support the game, making improvements based on your feedback and experience. Thank you to everyone who has followed our journey, supported us, provided…
- Torch of Shadows – Major Rework Update - 4 February 2026
This update is not an iteration, but a full rewrite.Over the past months, Torch of Shadows has been rebuilt from the ground up. Core systems, progression flow, visuals, and gameplay structure have all been re-designed with clarity, depth, and long-term sustainability in mind.Below is a summary of what changed.World & Map Design- Tile conversion system has been completely removed - The game no longer relies on territory repainting mechanics. This allowed for cleaner readability, stronger pacing, and more meaningful area control.- All maps have been restructured - Playable spaces were redesigned to better support enemy pressure, positioning, and moment-to-moment decision making.- A full Tutorial Area has been added- The tutorial is now the Main Altar Hub- This hub serves as the narrative and mechanical foundation of the game- Broken pylons from other maps are physically located here, tyin…
- Important Announcement - 22 November 2025
In response to feedback from our players, we are undertaking a significant overhaul to enhance the overall player experience and strengthen the game's long-term sustainability.This includes major alterations to the core mechanics, the world structure, and the loot system.Due to ongoing work, we may not release new patches for a while. But don't worry, it's for a very good reason!We're busy planning some major surprises behind the scenes and can't wait to reveal what's next for Torch of Shadows!Stay tuned!
- Torch of Shadows Demo Update v.1.1.14 - 22 November 2025
HighlightsLevel-Up, then Choices: On level gain, the game flashes a “Level Up!” banner first, then opens the in-game upgrade popup. Clear moment → cleaner decision.Curated Rarities: Static upgrades now have hand-tuned rarity tiers. No more weird pulls; the pool respects design intent.Run Pacing Revamp: A run now lasts 15 minutes. Boss #1 at 10:00, Boss #2 at 15:00. Tight loop, no filler.Missiles Mean It: Dark Missile and Light Missile damage doubled. Glass cannons? More like glass railguns.Spawn Pressure Up: Normal enemy spawns changed from 4 every 3s (~1.33/sec) to 2 every 1s (2/sec). Denser waves, cleaner cadence.New Power-Ups (Yes, plural)Health Regen: a small, steady “don’t panic” drip.Damage Up: straight to the point.Attack Speed Up: faster swings, faster things.XP Multiplier: level faster, choose more, snowball smarter.Immune Shield: brief invulnerability to bail you out (or in).A…
- Participation of Made in Türkiye 2025 Event - 19 November 2025
We’re excited to announce that Torch of Shadows has officially joined the Made in Türkiye 2025 event on Steam!This is a huge moment for our tiny two-person studio, and we’d love for you to experience the world we’re building. Step into the temple, defend the Light, bend the Dark, and survive the 30-minute runs filled with waves of corrupted creatures.🔥 Play the Free Demo Experience the combat, upgrades, and light/dark balance system right now.⭐ Wishlist the Full Game Your wishlist helps our launch more than anything, and thank you for supporting Turkish indie devs!Let the torch burn on. — Acthera Studios
- Torch of Shadows Demo Update v.1.1.13 - 18 November 2025
HighlightsElites behave. Their skills no longer spawn outside the arena; everything spawns inside walls like a law-abiding void creature.Reroll is in. Don’t like your upgrade options? Reroll right there in-run.Rarity is in. In-game upgrades now have rarity tiers with tuned weights—especially for Attack Power and Attack Speed.Performance (a.k.a. the Big Chill)Ward Totem optimized; no more stutters when it lands.Corruption Trail / Radiant Trail refactored; heavy moments are smooth.Separation logic tuned for large crowds; CPU bonfires extinguished.Audio & MusicThe run music was a lullaby. So we added ~28 dynamic tracks that rotate every run, plus 11 menu tracks that shuffle outside runs. Every session sounds fresh.UX & Quality of LifeDash cooldown display bug after “cooldown down” effects—fixed.Reroll keyboard & gamepad placeholders—added, so you always know the inputs.“Having a bug? Reset…
- Demo Update - Nov 8th - 7 November 2025
Hey everyone! This round packs a bunch of quality of life fixes for your eyes and ears. We did have a brief “wait, did you really set boss HP to 100x?” moment, but we landed on something actually balanced, readable, and smoother. Details below 👇Highlights:HUD now shows your level. No more “what level am I again?”Main menu & splash screen refreshed. New background, cleaner layout.Prologue updated. A tighter, moodier opening flow.Spotlight effect added. Clearer visual emphasis at key moments.Loading screen hints now rotate. Useful mini tips while you wait.LocalizationNew languages: Spanish, Italian, Estonian, Portuguese.Typos fixed across all languages.Language selection bug fixed: Changing language on the main menu no longer causes in-game upgrades to use the previous language.Demo boundary label: Locked rooms on the map now show “N/A in demo.”Gameplay & BalanceAttack Speed & Attack Pow…
- Demo Update - Nov 5th - 5 November 2025
BUGFIX:A bug has been fixed to prevent fast and exploding enemies from entering the scatter.Previously, if the language was changed upon entering the game, in-game upgrades would appear based on the previous language. This issue has been resolved.A bug has been fixed. Some skill upgrades had a significant level decrease, while others had a minor one.The bug that caused the game to crash when the elite buff was removed while the game was paused has been fixed.OTHER:The text "Not available in demo" has been added to the other rooms on the map screen.The full tracking range has increased.The in-game tutorial videos have been updated.Attack speed and attack power increases have been reduced. They have been lowered from 10% to 2%.Lifesteal has been reduced to 1%.The health-restoring drop rate has been lowered to 5%.Typos between languages have been corrected.
