Indie developer DoubleTap and publisher Valkyrie Initiative are excited to announce the launch of the free demo for their upcoming tactical RPG, Blades for Hire, available starting June 9, 2025, during Steam Next Fest. Players will get their first chance to experience the ruthless life of a mercenary guild leader in a dark and morally complex fantasy world.
The demo offers around 30 minutes of gameplay, including early missions designed to introduce the game’s combat mechanics, atmosphere, and the core systems of guild management and character interactions.
About the Game
Blades for Hire is a gripping turn-based tactical RPG that blends deep combat, impactful narrative choices, and intricate guild management. You command a mercenary guild trying to survive – and thrive – in a world where every decision has consequences.
Key Features:
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150+ unique events and missions where player choices influence the storyline, character relationships, and guild reputation.
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Tactical turn-based combat with indirect control, where mercenaries choose their targets, but you shape their battle behavior.
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Hero loyalty and morality system – your fighters have personalities and limits. Some will refuse to rob civilians or take part in rescues.
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Economic depth – manage salaries, gear, bribes, and donations. Your coin and reputation are the key to progress.
- Contract-driven progression – choose which factions to work with, what missions to take, and how to build your own legacy.
Demo Release
Release date: June 9, 2025
Platform: PC / Steam
Steam page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3180000/Blades_For_Hire/
Watch the official trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jiI8KdYtN4
Press Materials
Download logos, key art, and screenshots from the official presskit:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qc9WHLkubtxTiOwWs6yyUphD-UYcS08T
Ready-made articles that you can use as publications on your site.
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BPMt-hYErxCBd8qUF2MDRnjOSMqRm5cPE53uMorMjKo/edit?usp=drive_link
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QQv25T0WI2bM2PDol5ASyRdhyPYR2FDBn-CQJBQv4VI/edit?usp=drive_link
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YPzbIRfN44RhthDKxg9UlbPyqCpKmLbkd6qIDez3P-w/edit?usp=drive_link
Additional Activities
To celebrate the demo launch, the developers will host a live gameplay stream during Steam Next Fest, where they will answer community questions and showcase the early gameplay.
About the Developers
DoubleTap is an independent studio focused on meaningful tactical experiences with strong narrative consequences.
Valkyrie Initiative LLP is an international publisher supporting unique indie games and helping them reach a global audience.
Media Contact
Jesse Kellor
PR & Media Relations – Valkyrie Initiative
press@valkyrieinitiative.pro
https://valkyrieinitiative.com