Steam launch: This new retro-inspired RPG just hit Steam with a launch discount in tow and 10 unlockable classes

On January 7, 2026, developer Shiromofu Factory officially released Dungeon Antiqua 2 on Steam, effectively moving the series from its 8-bit NES inspiration into a more detailed 16-bit SNES design. The sequel introduces a big expansion over the original 2024 title, with refined character development and environmental exploration. Currently, the game is available with a limited-time introductory discount, priced at approximately $7.64 until mid-January.

The gameplay architecture of Dungeon Antiqua 2 is defined by its expanded job system, which now features ten classes, as compared to its predecessor. Players begin with access to five core roles, including the Fighter, Thief, and Priest, while the remaining five advanced classes, such as the newly added Archer, must be unlocked through gameplay progression. A major mechanical shift from the first game is the implementation of a skill milestone system. Instead of power being purely level-dependent, characters now accumulate skill points to reach specific thresholds that unlock job-specific abilities. These skills can be carried across different jobs, as changing a character's profession no longer resets their base level.

Exploration has also been scaled up to include six unique dungeons, which utilize a vision mechanic where the visibility of the surrounding map and enemy symbols is dictated by character stats. This will give players the agency to navigate around threats or initiate combat to gain a tactical advantage. The developer has deliberately excluded extensive story cutscenes, instead, they rely on dialogue and environment-based storytelling to simulate the experience of classic dungeon crawlers from the early 1990s.

The title is also Steam Deck (curr. $795 on Amazon) Verified and includes specific provisions for handheld gaming enthusiasts. The game files contain a dedicated executable designed for certain portable consoles, which is accessible via the local game folders. Furthermore, a robust data inheritance system lets players transfer progress from the pre-launch demo to the full version using a secure backup code. Following the initial release, a patch was quickly deployed on January 8 to address rare freezing issues and refine English localization, such as renaming specific inventory items for better clarity.

Going by early feedback, the game does a high level of difficulty that may challenge those who are unfamiliar with traditional RPG mechanics. Success in combat depends on the careful use of debuffs; for example, physical attacks against boss-tier enemies often deal negligible damage unless the party's Mage applies Armor Class debuffs like Darkness or Terror. While the lack of narrative fluff could be a major selling point for core genre fans, the game's mechanical density and faithfullnes to "old school" tropes, such as a capped frame rate and limited auto-save locations, may turn out to be a barrier for more casual players.

You can check out Dungeon Antiqua 2 on Steam here.