In a delightful twist on the soulslike genre, Parry Frames Studio has unveiled their latest project, Stray Dog: Nobody Cares, which draws inspiration from the beloved Dark Souls series. The concept, which revolves around the loyal companion of a knight-errant, Great Grey Wolf Sif, is a refreshing take that many might consider long overdue.
Game Mechanics and Features
While players will not directly control Sif, the essence of this noble creature is embodied in the game’s four-legged protagonist. The narrative mirrors that of Sif, as players assume the role of a devoted hound on a quest to rescue its captured master in a dark fantasy realm. The developers have hinted at an engaging combat system, featuring “multiple” styles that allow players to parry, backstab, and execute deathblows reminiscent of the classic Dark Souls mechanics. Additionally, stealth elements are set to play a significant role, although details remain sparse at this stage.
The announcement of Stray Dog seems to have taken Parry Frames by surprise, as they noted in a recent Steam post that the game gained unexpected traction on social media following the release of early test footage. This surge in interest comes on the heels of their debut title, Crimson Oath, which was developed over eight years with the support of an Epic Megagrant. Released earlier this year, Crimson Oath has garnered a ‘very positive’ rating on Steam, with players appreciating its homage to FromSoftware’s earlier works, while others have drawn parallels to titles like Sekiro and Gothic by Piranha Bytes.
With just four months since the launch of Crimson Oath, the timeline for Stray Dog remains uncertain. However, Parry Frames has confirmed that the development of the game’s combat framework is complete, showcasing a robust foundation in the available footage. As anticipation builds, the gaming community eagerly awaits how Parry Frames will evolve this intriguing premise into a fully realized experience within the soulslike genre.
