This hand-embroidered medieval adventure game looks like a lovely, chill time—but I'm warning you, don't be fooled by its pleasant exterior

Before diving into why Scarlet Deer Inn has become one of my most anticipated games of the year, I strongly recommend you download the Steam demo and play it for yourself. It's hard to describe the exact moment I realized this game has serious depth without spoiling the experience. Give it a try—just 20 minutes could change your perspective.

A Unique Art Style That Stands Out

Scarlet Deer Inn is a side-scrolling adventure platformer developed by the Czech duo Attu Games. What sets it apart from other games in its genre is its hand-embroidered art style—though not quite as described. The backgrounds are hand-painted, while the characters and their animations are crafted using a sewing machine, then digitized. This unconventional method results in a visual experience that feels both charming and innovative.

At first glance, the game seems like a cozy, gentle adventure. Think rolling fields, sunlit forests, and villagers swapping gossip. It’s a pleasant space to explore, and the characters are surprisingly funny—not in the over-the-top style of Monkey Island, but in a way that feels natural and engaging.

A Game That Packs a Punch

I enjoyed the calm and whimsy of the early gameplay. But then, things take a turn. At a certain point, it becomes clear that Scarlet Deer Inn is more than just a lighthearted adventure. It has teeth, bones, and other things—a dramatic twist that caught me off guard. This early shift is one of the most effective narrative turns I've seen in a game in a while, and it sets the stage for what could be a deeply intriguing story.

As you can probably tell, I was impressed by this game and have been looking forward to the full release. The developers recently announced a release date of July 17, which is just around the corner. There's also a new trailer available, but I still suggest you try the demo first. The trailer reveals quite a bit, and I want to keep the surprises intact.

Why You Should Play It

  • The unique hand-embroidered art style is both charming and innovative.
  • The game starts off as a cozy, whimsical adventure but quickly turns more intense.
  • The early dramatic twist sets up intriguing possibilities for the rest of the game.
  • With a release date just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get excited.

Don’t be fooled by its pleasant exterior—Scarlet Deer Inn is a game that delivers more than it initially appears. It's a delightful experience with a surprising edge that's sure to keep players engaged and intrigued.