Ancient Kingdoms
Early access since Jan 2025
Dive into an old-school pixel art RPG inspired by classic MMORPGs! Explore epic dungeons, battle fearsome bosses, and complete quests solo offline or online with up to 5 players. Choose your class, gear up, and craft your own legend!
86% positive · 515 reviews
Not yet
In early access, still in active development
High confidence
Active Development
Not yet
In early access, still in active development
High confidence
Active Development
Where to buy
Steam $13.59 $15.99 −15%
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Evaluation
Ancient Kingdoms is an Early Access RPG that continues to receive a high volume of updates from its developer. The 49 developer posts scanned include 7 major content releases, 15 feature patches, and 24 bug fix patches — reflecting a very active development pace sustained since the January 15, 2025 launch.
In the most recent weeks alone, the team has shipped feature patches on August 17, August 8, August 2, July 27, July 16, July 8, July 3, and June 29, 2026 — roughly one update every week or two. These patches have introduced new systems (Illusion Items, Friendly Follower Pets, Equipment Templates, Extended Target, Critical Resist), a new world boss (Avatar of Air), a major combat overhaul, the Fishing profession, and numerous balance and quality-of-life improvements.
Most concretely, the developer has been publicly tracking progress on an upcoming high-end dungeon called **Old Valorath** across multiple consecutive patches: 20% complete as of July 27, 30% as of August 2, 40% as of August 8, and 50% as of August 17, 2026. This is unshipped content in active development, confirmed by the developer's own progress updates. The June 1, 2026 patch notes also explicitly referenced progress "toward full release," confirming the game remains in its Early Access phase with a 1.0 still ahead.
There is no indication of development slowing — the most recent update was just five days ago on August 17, 2026.
Evidence
v0.9.29.0 patch notes report Old Valorath dungeon is now 50% complete, with active work continuing on environments, enemies, encounters, items, and secrets.
v0.9.28.0 patch notes report Old Valorath dungeon is approximately 40% complete.
Media
Details
Developer
Publisher
Ancient Pixels
Achievements
38
Platform
Windows, Linux
Controller
partial support
Steam Deck
Playable
Players
Single-player · Multiplayer · Co-op
About this game
Ancient Kingdoms is a classic 2D RPG game meticulously crafted to evoke the nostalgia and charm of beloved RPGs from the golden era of gaming. Designed by dedicated fans for fellow enthusiasts, it offers an experience that celebrates the timeless elements of traditional role-playing games, with special attention to making the game accessible for beginner players in the genre, and entertaining and deep enough for veteran players.

Discover the rich, immersive world of Eratiath in "Ancient Kingdoms", a classic RPG experience that harkens back to the genre's roots. Choose from six distinct and powerful classes (Warrior, Ranger, Cleric, Rogue, Wizard, Druid) and a diverse array of races including elves, dwarves, humans, and goblins.
Embark on an epic journey through a vast world teeming with secrets, ancient ruins, and mysterious catacombs. Test your mettle against formidable adversaries such as orcs, dragons, and even ancient gods. Overcome these challenges to uncover incredible treasures and gear that will empower your hero.
Forge your own path, alone or with friends in a cooperative party of up to four players. Explore the captivating world of Eratiath and become the hero of your own legendary tale in "Ancient Kingdoms".
Visual Style and Graphics:
Gameplay Mechanics:
Story and Setting:
Audio and Music:
Community and Development:
In summary, "Ancient Kingdoms" is a heartfelt tribute to the classic 2D RPGs of yesteryear. It combines nostalgic visuals, engaging gameplay, and a rich narrative to provide players with a timeless adventure that feels both familiar and fresh. Whether you are a veteran of classic RPGs or new to the genre, "Ancient Kingdoms" promises an enchanting journey filled with wonder and excitement.


Discover the rich, immersive world of Eratiath in "Ancient Kingdoms", a classic RPG experience that harkens back to the genre's roots. Choose from six distinct and powerful classes (Warrior, Ranger, Cleric, Rogue, Wizard, Druid) and a diverse array of races including elves, dwarves, humans, and goblins.
Embark on an epic journey through a vast world teeming with secrets, ancient ruins, and mysterious catacombs. Test your mettle against formidable adversaries such as orcs, dragons, and even ancient gods. Overcome these challenges to uncover incredible treasures and gear that will empower your hero.
Forge your own path, alone or with friends in a cooperative party of up to four players. Explore the captivating world of Eratiath and become the hero of your own legendary tale in "Ancient Kingdoms".
Visual Style and Graphics:
- Retro Aesthetic: "Ancient Kingdoms" boasts pixel art graphics reminiscent of 16-bit classics. Each sprite, background, and animation is lovingly designed to capture the look and feel of the RPGs from the late '80s and early '90s.
- Detailed Environments: Players can explore a variety of meticulously crafted environments, including lush forests, bustling towns, mysterious dungeons, and ancient ruins, each with a distinctive visual flair that pays homage to classic RPGs.
Gameplay Mechanics:
- Tap Target Combat: The game features tap target combat, where players must carefully plan their moves, utilizing a range of abilities and spells to defeat enemies. Classic mechanics such as tactical positioning and resource management are important keys of the gameplay.
- Character Customization: Players can create and customize their characters, each with different races, classes like Warrior, Cleric, Druid, Ranger, Rogue and Wizard, and unique skills and attributes.
- Exploration and Quests: "Ancient Kingdoms" offers an expansive world filled with hidden secrets, side quests, and lore. Players are encouraged to explore every nook and cranny, interact with NPCs, and uncover the rich history of the game world.
- Inventory and Equipment: A robust inventory system allows players to manage their gear, find and equip powerful weapons and armour, and use a variety of items to aid them on their journey.
Story and Setting:
- Epic Narrative: The story focuses on the classic theme of good versus evil, where our heroes must face the evils that lurk in “Eratiath”
- Rich Lore: "Ancient Kingdoms" is set in a richly detailed fantasy world with its own history, cultures, and myths. The game provides deep lore for players to discover, adding depth to the overall experience.
Audio and Music:
- Chiptune Soundtrack: The game’s soundtrack is a delightful collection of chiptune compositions that perfectly capture the spirit of classic RPGs. Each track is designed to enhance the atmosphere, from the tranquil melodies of village life to the intense battle themes.
- Immersive Sound Effects: Carefully crafted sound effects bring the world to life, from the clanging of swords in combat to the ambient sounds of nature during exploration.
Community and Development:
- From Fans to Fans: Developed by a passionate team of RPG enthusiasts, "Ancient Kingdoms" is a labour of love aimed at fellow fans of the genre. The developers actively engage with the community, taking feedback and incorporating it into updates and expansions.
- Ongoing Support: The game is regularly updated with new content, bug fixes, and enhancements, ensuring a continuously evolving experience for players.
In summary, "Ancient Kingdoms" is a heartfelt tribute to the classic 2D RPGs of yesteryear. It combines nostalgic visuals, engaging gameplay, and a rich narrative to provide players with a timeless adventure that feels both familiar and fresh. Whether you are a veteran of classic RPGs or new to the genre, "Ancient Kingdoms" promises an enchanting journey filled with wonder and excitement.

Last evaluated Aug 22, 2026
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