While the Steam Next Fest won’t officially begin until next week, some studios have taken the lead by releasing their demos now. Result: PC players can already discover several promising titles for free.
These demos are just a preview of the full versions, but they offer enough content to get a solid idea. Whether you’re a fan of shooting, management, adventure or survival games, this selection covers a wide range of genres.
Tactical and cooperative shooters for action lovers
Among the first demos to remember is Fate Trigger, a tactical shooter with an anime aesthetic. Players can choose from ten heroes and explore three different maps in four distinct game modes. Even if the content remains limited compared to the final version, the variety offered already allows you to spend several hours there.
In a more cooperative vein, John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando offers a Left 4 Dead-style experience. You form a squad of four players to face hordes of monsters. The demo includes two full levels and a preview of combat mechanics and special abilities. Perfect for a session with friends.
Construction, survival and program cooperation
Romestead mixes RPG, management and survival in a post-apocalyptic Rome invaded by zombies. The demo includes the first two biomes, fifteen dungeons and three bosses. An eight-player cooperative mode is also available, making it one of the most generous attempts in this selection.
Witchspire, for its part, offers a survival adventure in a magical world. You can build your sanctuary there and cooperate with other witches. The demo provides access to a large portion of the content, although the maximum level is limited to 7 and some options are restricted.
More narrative and atmospheric experiences
The Witch’s Bakery takes on a softer vibe. This adventure and puzzle game places you in the shoes of a witch who has opened a bakery in Paris. The atmosphere is reminiscent of Kiki the Little Witch or Stardew Valley. The demo covers the entire first chapter, approximately one to two hours of gameplay.
1348 Ex Voto, meanwhile, immerses players in medieval Italy. You play as Aeta, a knight in search of her beloved. The demo includes the first chapters and allows you to test the combat system inspired by action-adventure classics.
An original arcade game to stand out
Finally, Denshattack brings a touch of originality. This arcade game puts you in control of a gravity-defying train, capable of performing ollies, kickflips and grinds across Japan and other varied environments. The demo includes the first three levels and focuses on scoring and mastering tricks.
With seven demos available even before Steam Next Fest, PC gamers have plenty of choice to fill their weekend. And if one of these games appeals to you, all you have to do is add it to your wish list while waiting for its full release.