Hell Clock diverges from the common action RPG format, swapping out demons for a narrative steeped in the Canudos War, a massacre in Brazil’s history.

Scheduled for release on June 18, this Diablo-esque roguelike focuses on saving the lost soul of Canudos’ leader, offering a striking blend of history and gameplay. Developed by Mad Mushroom, the game aims to frame the violence typical of the genre as a cathartic experience rather than mere entertainment.

From 1896-1897, the Brazilian army wiped out the Canudos settlement’s inhabitants, and Hell Clock invites players to engage with this tragic past. Unlike conventional loot-hunting games, it seeks to provide context, making each run rewarding both in gameplay and historical engagement.

Expect variations in gameplay with changing builds and buffs that can drastically alter your character’s capabilities. The recently released trailer showcased the protagonist, Pajeú, battling a horde of enemies while utilizing powerful abilities like spinning blades and explosive fireballs.

The game promises a three-act campaign followed by an endgame mode, which will allow players to modify the difficulty and rewards of their runs. This feature draws inspiration from the expansive skill trees seen in games like Path of Exile, enhancing replayability.

Visually, Hell Clock adopts a vibrant, bold art style that aims to distinguish itself in the saturated market of medieval fantasy RPGs. The developers seem to have captured something truly unique, and anticipation is high for its upcoming release.