Solo developer Marvin Wizard has released Vital Shell, a top-down arena shooter that blends elements of Armored Core and Vampire Survivors. The game features fantasy mechs, automatic battling mechanics, and PlayStation 1-inspired visuals. It launched on Steam today for $4.79, with a demo available for players to try.
Vital Shell emerged as an unexpected indie title when Marvin Wizard, working solo, launched it on Steam on January 8. The game imagines a crossover between the mech combat of Armored Core and the horde-survival roguelike style of Vampire Survivors, resulting in a top-down arena shooter where players pilot a giant robot across nondescript battlefields.
Gameplay revolves around kiting waves of enemy hordes, surviving long enough to level up, and selecting weaponry and upgrades to enhance the mech's arsenal. As the reviewer noted after testing it, "folks, it’s pretty dang fun." The presentation stands out with clean 3D graphics that clearly distinguish allies from foes amid chaotic battles, and a level-up screen reminiscent of early Armored Core titles. Ambient jungle music adds to the atmospheric vibe, complemented by PS1-era aesthetics.
Wizard adopted a console-first design philosophy, ensuring snappy menus optimized for controllers like the DualSense. While initially tested with mouse and keyboard, the experience shines with a gamepad. Currently a solo experience, the developer is considering co-op features in future updates.
Priced at $4.79 until January 21—after which it rises to $5.99—Vital Shell includes a demo styled like a PS1 preview disc, allowing potential buyers to sample its mechanics without commitment. This release highlights the creative potential of indie developers in fusing established genres into fresh, accessible experiences.
