Terahard Studios Introduces Turn-Based RPG Focused on Crafting, Combat, and Revenge
Independent developer Terahard Studios has officially revealed Runesmith, a turn-based tactical RPG that combines fantasy adventure, deep crafting systems, and strategic combat built around powerful rune interactions. The game made its public debut during the Indie Quest 2026 Showcase, where its first trailer premiered alongside the launch of its Steam page.
Set in a fantasy world inspired by classic role-playing games and dwarven folklore, Runesmith places players in the role of a blacksmith whose personal quest for unpaid debts quickly evolves into a much larger adventure.
A Dwarf Blacksmith’s Quest for Revenge
An Unconventional Hero Takes Center Stage
Players assume the role of a dwarf blacksmith who embarks on a journey to track down a powerful villain. While the antagonist poses a significant threat to the world, the protagonist’s motivation is far more personal: collecting money that is still owed to him.
The game leans heavily into humor while embracing familiar fantasy RPG themes. Along the way, players recruit companions, explore dangerous locations, and confront increasingly powerful enemies.
According to Terahard Studios CEO Aris Tsevrenis, the project represents a major milestone for the company.
“Runesmith is a dream come true as it’s the company’s first true RPG, something that I’ve wanted to build in all the 13 years of Terahard’s existence,” Tsevrenis said. “Fantasy dwarves are loved for a lot of different reasons and their deep lore makes them extra interesting. Being a D&D player for many years, it was something that I always wanted to try. Runesmith is a mixture of our humour, crafting and how both can affect combat in interesting ways.”
Crafting and Rune Forging Play a Central Role
Building Equipment Through Rune-Smithing
One of the game’s core mechanics is its extensive rune-forging system.
Players can craft weapons, armor, and magical items while engraving runes that alter abilities and create unique effects. Different rune combinations can interact in unexpected ways, encouraging experimentation and customization.
The system allows players to create powerful equipment while also introducing risks, as certain combinations may produce unintended consequences during combat.
This emphasis on crafting gives players significant control over character progression and battle strategies throughout the adventure.
Combat Built Around Creative Status Effects
Chain Reactions and Tactical Decision-Making
While turn-based combat is a familiar feature of many RPGs, Runesmith places a particular emphasis on status effects and environmental interactions.
Players can combine abilities, runes, and battlefield conditions to trigger chain reactions that dramatically alter encounters. Simple effects can evolve into complex combinations capable of damaging multiple enemies or changing the flow of battle.
Examples provided by the developer include transforming harmless environmental effects into dangerous hazards through the addition of poison or other magical modifiers.
The combat system rewards experimentation, strategic planning, and a willingness to embrace unpredictable outcomes.
A Fantasy World Filled With Adventure and Humor
Exploring Mines, Taverns, and Ancient Ruins
Outside of combat, players can explore a variety of locations including towns, mines, dungeons, ruins, and taverns.
Activities extend beyond combat and questing. Players can improve their forge, accept jobs, interact with merchants and nobles, and participate in tavern brawls that reflect the game’s comedic tone.
The world is populated by a mix of monsters, adventurers, priests, traders, and other characters, many of whom contribute to the game’s lighthearted approach to fantasy storytelling.
Living the Dwarven Lifestyle
The game embraces classic fantasy dwarf stereotypes in both its narrative and gameplay systems. Drinking ale, engaging in tavern fights, crafting powerful gear, and pursuing grudges all play a role in the overall experience.
These elements help distinguish Runesmith from more traditional fantasy RPGs by blending strategic gameplay with humor and character-driven storytelling.
Key Features of Runesmith
Deep Rune Crafting System
Create weapons, armor, trinkets, and magical combinations through a detailed rune engraving system.
Turn-Based Tactical Combat
Use status effects, environmental interactions, and rune-powered abilities to create powerful combat combinations.
Party Recruitment and Character Progression
Build a team of adventurers and customize their equipment and capabilities throughout the journey.
Humorous Fantasy Narrative
Follow a revenge-driven quest where collecting an unpaid debt becomes the catalyst for a world-spanning adventure.
Expansive Fantasy Exploration
Travel through towns, mines, taverns, ruins, and dungeons while encountering a wide range of characters and creatures.
Steam Wishlist Page Now Available
With its debut trailer now released and its Steam page open for wishlisting, Runesmith is introducing players to a fantasy RPG that combines tactical combat, extensive crafting mechanics, and a comedic dwarven perspective. As development continues, the game aims to offer an experience where creative rune combinations, strategic battles, and a quest driven by personal revenge are just as important as saving the world.
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