Indie Developer Launches LORT, A Fantasy Twist on Risk of Rain 2

A new multiplayer roguelike game, titled LORT, has officially launched in early access on Steam. Developed by the indie team Big Distraction, the game aims to fill a gap left by the popular title Risk of Rain 2, which has not seen a similar challenger in years. The developers, who previously worked on games such as Fortnite and Rocket League, expressed their motivation to create LORT on social media, stating, “We kept waiting for another Risk of Rain 2. It never came. So we quit AAA and made LORT.”

The newly released game allows players to team up with up to seven friends to explore a vibrant fantasy world filled with magic and adventure. Players can loot resources, build powerful upgrades, and face off against formidable bosses. LORT features a diverse range of gameplay elements, including four procedurally generated biomes, various playable characters, and nine different weapon types.

Exciting Features and Community Engagement

One of the standout aspects of LORT is its commitment to community involvement. The developers have laid out a roadmap for future updates, promising new content and features based on player feedback. Upcoming enhancements include the introduction of daggers, additional power-ups, and a new “rogue” class characterized as a frog-turned-assassin. The team stated, “We have a lot of ideas for LORT. A lot. But while we like our ideas, we ultimately want to make what you and the rest of the community want.”

The early access version has already received a “Mostly Positive” rating from users on Steam, with players praising its meta-progression and potential for unique character builds. However, some critiques have emerged regarding the game’s suitability for solo players and the absence of matchmaking, which may be addressed in future updates.

Humor and Game Dynamics

The title LORT itself has sparked curiosity among players, as its meaning remains unclear. Some speculate it could be a playful reference to “loot,” while others suggest connections to popular culture, such as “Lord of the Rings.” The game embraces a light-hearted tone, evident in its whimsical power-ups with names like “Trophy of Swole” and “Boomer’s Blessing,” adding to its appeal.

As the indie gaming landscape continues to evolve, LORT stands out as a promising contender in the roguelike genre. With its engaging cooperative gameplay and a clear focus on community feedback, it could potentially carve out a space alongside its inspirations. As players dive into the adventure, they can expect future updates to enhance their experience in this captivating fantasy world.