Exciting Developments from Pithead Studio
In a noteworthy move within the indie gaming landscape, former Piranha Bytes creative director Björn Pankratz and his wife, game designer Jennifer Pankratz, have established Pithead Studio. Launched in July 2024, this new venture aims to allow the duo to pursue their passion for game development. Today, they unveiled their inaugural project, Cralon, and the gaming community is abuzz with anticipation.
Cralon is described as an “authentic 3D dungeon crawler” infused with RPG and adventure elements. The narrative follows a demon hunter who inadvertently tumbles into an ancient mine, setting off a quest to navigate his way out—though, as is customary in such tales, the journey leads him deeper into perilous territory. Players can expect to encounter various challenges lurking in the shadows, necessitating assistance from the enigmatic “creatures of the shaft” to facilitate their escape.
<pThe inspiration for Cralon draws from classic titles such as Arkane’s Arx Fatalis and Ultima Underworld. This connection is particularly intriguing, as Arx Fatalis can be viewed as a spiritual successor to Ultima Underworld, albeit without the official branding. The excitement surrounding this project is palpable, especially for those who yearn for a revival of the dungeon crawler genre, with Ultima Underworld being a cherished title among enthusiasts.
While the enthusiasm is warranted, it is tempered by the understanding that Cralon is still in its nascent stages. The Pankratzes’ previous work with Piranha Bytes—known for titles like Gothic, Risen, and Elex—has often been characterized by a certain level of jankiness. This aspect, while sometimes seen as a flaw, can also lend a unique charm to a game. However, it is essential to note that Pithead Studio is not a direct continuation of Piranha Bytes but rather a new entity with its own creative vision.
As the project develops, the early state of Cralon allows for a sense of optimism without the burden of immediate concerns. The game has already triggered excitement among fans of the genre, and the prospect of a new title reminiscent of Arx Fatalis is enough to garner significant interest.
Currently, Cralon does not have a specified release date, but it is available for wishlisting on both Steam and the Epic Games Store. Early screenshots have been released, providing a glimpse into the world that awaits players.
