Don’t Nod’s upcoming The Lonesome Guild marks a charming departure for developer Tiny Bull Studios, best known for VR projects and Lovecraftian horror. This whimsical, kid-friendly adventure swaps cosmic terror for anthropomorphic animal heroes, a friendly ghost companion, and a heartfelt story about overcoming loneliness.
A Tale of Friendship and Forgotten Memories
The game begins with a lonely shooting star crashing into the world of Etere, releasing a mist of sorrow—and a nameless ghost in search of connection. Players take control of Davinci, an excitable inventor bunny with a penchant for exclaiming “Sparks!” instead of swearing. After naming the ghost simply “Ghost,” the unlikely duo sets out to uncover the origins of the eerie mist—and Ghost’s forgotten past.
Soon, they’re joined by Mr. Fox, a gruff, pessimistic wanderer who reluctantly tags along. Despite their clashing personalities, the trio’s dynamic hints at a deeper bond to come—one central to The Lonesome Guild’s themes.
Gamifying Friendship: Campfires and Relationship Building
Where many RPGs focus on combat stats, The Lonesome Guild rewards emotional connections. During campfire rests, players engage in conversations that strengthen the party’s bonds, unlocking new skills and passive abilities tied to their growing friendship.
But the game also explores the illusion of connection—like Davinci’s one-sided “friendship” with an unseen pen pal, Ran. When the group finally reaches Ran’s home, they’re met not by a friend, but by hostile automatons, suggesting Davinci’s loneliness might run deeper than he admits.
Combat with a Twist: Ghost-Powered Teamwork
Battles blend fast-paced action (think Tunic or Death’s Door) with a unique twist: Ghost can possess allies, supercharging their attacks with a glowing aura. Players must rotate control between characters to maximize the buff, adding strategic depth while keeping fights dynamic.
Enemies range from mischievous pot-headed creatures (reminiscent of Over the Garden Wall) to Ran’s mechanical guardians. Combat is punchy but challenging—mistimed swaps can leave a weakened character vulnerable, demanding quick reflexes.
A Promising Blend of Heart and Gameplay
Though the demo only offered a two-hour glimpse, The Lonesome Guild already stands out with its:
- Endearing characters (a lovable ghost, a bubbly bunny, and a grumpy fox).
- Fresh take on relationship mechanics—more than just stat boosts.
- Inventive combat that rewards teamwork.
Slated for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC later this year, this cozy adventure could be a sleeper hit for fans of narrative-driven games. If the full release delivers on its demo’s promise, Tiny Bull Studios might just craft something truly special—a game about friendship that feels like a friend.
