Chess meets roguelike: New Steam demo takes the top spot in "Trending Free"

Chess follows a fixed set of rules, allowing players to plan their strategies in advance. But what happens when those rules are completely upended? Passant: A Chess Roguelike blends classic chess mechanics with the unpredictability of a roguelike. Items introduce short-term effects, while badges permanently alter the game's rules or mechanics. Instead of relying on established openings and fixed move sequences, players must adapt on the fly and continuously rethink their strategy.

In classic chess, losing a pawn is a minor setback. Here, it can turn the tide, exploding on capture or allowing extra moves. The challenge ramps up with each level as opponents grow smarter, pieces gain power and the rules become more fluid.

The demo kicks off with a short tutorial, followed by two starting setups and three tough stages to explore early synergies. Those who reach the end unlock a special challenge mode demanding even greater tactical finesse. With over 60 unique badges, no two runs ever play out the same.

Passant is being developed by solo creator Marc Makes Games, known for the RTS Block Strategy on Steam, which received little attention. This time, things are looking much better. As of the research date, the demo, released on January 28, had 46 reviews with an 86% positive rating. It also holds the top spot in Steam’s “Trending Free” category. For chess enthusiasts and strategy fans, Passant is definitely worth a look. However, there's no word yet on a release date.

Parallels to Balatro

Passant is already sparking discussions on Reddit. Many players appreciate the unique blend of classic chess and roguelike mechanics, but not everyone is fully convinced. Critics argue that the game bears a strong resemblance to Balatro, a popular roguelike card game. Some feel that the user interface, turn system and even the in-game store are too similar to its apparent inspiration. For these players, Passant comes across as an attempt to ride the wave of another game’s success.