Retro Sci-Fi RPG Built from Text Symbols Launches on Steam

Party-based retro sci-fi game titled Effulgence RPG from Solo Developer Andrei Fomin has just been released on Steam, garnering 'Very Positive' reviews on the platform.

The game features unusual graphics and mechanics: all the 3D visuals, including landscapes, creatures, machines, and effects, are formed by symbols. It not only looks great but also lets players build something new from defeated enemies as they break apart into single characters.

Effulgence RPG features tactical turn-based battles with bosses featuring unique mechanics, and three types of mini-games. The RPG features a concise adventure, as it takes about 5-7 hours to beat. It also includes multiple blueprints for printable weapons, gear, and mechanisms.

According to the developer, the game has been in the works for two years; it was released in Early Access last year. The creator shared that he drew inspiration from the times when monitors were alphanumeric. The models composited from symbols are partly procedural, partly manually crafted. The developer shared that he relied on procedural ASCII a lot.

If you enjoy games centered around coding, automation, math, and computer hardware, check out our selection of the top 10 games featured on Steam Programming Fest 2026, including Blackdoor, The Farmer Was Replaced, which reached 39,000% revenue growth after its full release, Radiotext, Opus Magnum, and more.

Also, have a look at a text-based FPS, Torizon Telecom, by SkagoGames, and Project Torizon, and a satisfying demo from Number Machine: Math Factory, a WIP factory game inspired by Opus Magnum and Infinifactory:

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