9 Kings is a fast-paced roguelike kingdom builder game gets a roadmap, but runs like a dream on Steam Deck and Linux via Proton, with Windows PC. Thanks to the nonstop creativity of developer Sad Socket, the title just keeps getting better. Which you can find on Steam Early Access and Humble Store with 92% Very Positive reviews.
If you haven’t heard of 9 Kings yet, where have you been? This slick fast-paced roguelike kingdom builder from Brazilian dev Sad Socket and published by Hooded Horse has absolutely exploded. While racking up over 400,000 sales in its first month of Early Access. That’s not just good—that’s legendary, especially for an indie title built in Unity, fully playable on Steam Deck and even running smooth on Linux via Proton. That alone deserves a standing ovation.
But what makes 9 Kings such a hit? It’s not just the deep strategy, crunchy card combos, or the way it rewards big-brain plays and chaotic risk-taking. It’s the vibe—every match feels like a battle of wits with fate itself. And now, after ten meaty patches that added content, fixed bugs, and polished quality-of-life bits, the devs are setting their sights on even bigger things.
Let’s break it down, because the future of 9 Kings is looking stacked:
Perks, Reworked – Meta-Progression Gets Smarter
One of the most-requested features is finally on the way: a complete overhaul of the perk system. The devs are taking a hard look at how players grow stronger between runs, aiming for long-term balance without sacrificing creativity. Expect the first version of this rework to land this month—perfect time to dive back in.
Kings 8 and 9 – The Final Crowns Are Coming
There are still two Kings left to claim their thrones in the roadmap. King #8 is due to drop this summer, and the long-awaited 9th King will arrive in Q3, officially completing the “core” vision for the game. Think of it like the season finale of your favorite show—except you get to be the main character.
9 Kings: Release Trailer
New Game Mode & Endless Surprises
Later this year, 9 Kings will drop a brand-new game mode that builds on everything players have mastered so far. While the devs are still tight-lipped on the details, they’re hinting it’ll bring something fresh that deepens the strategic sandbox. And for you grind lovers? The Endless Mode is also getting an upgrade, alongside new cards (hello, Rainbow cards), decrees, perks, and even more achievements to flex.
And don’t worry—they’re not abandoning regular updates. Expect a steady drip of QoL tweaks, performance polish, and fun extras all through Early Access.
Built for Strategy Nerds, Loved by Everyone
What’s even cooler? This isn’t some Windows-only affair. Whether you’re rocking a full Linux setup or chilling on your Steam Deck, 9 Kings is totally playable and optimized for your PC. It’s a shining example of how well a Unity title can come to life across platforms, making better use of a Windows build.
At just $14.99 USD (or local equivalents: £12.00 / €14.99 / ¥1,860), it’s an absolute steal. No surprise it’s rocking a 92% “Very Positive” rating on Steam with over 7,000 reviews. This release respects your time, rewards your skill, and isn’t afraid to evolve.
So yeah — 9 Kings fast-paced roguelike kingdom builder is already killing it, and it’s only just getting started in the roadmap. Grab your boar mount, build that perfect combo deck, and prepare for war. The throne isn’t going to claim itself on Steam Early Access and Humble Store.