Imagine a dark universe dripping with horror like Bloodborne…then add some bizarre vehicle races worthy of Mario Kart. This is exactly the absurd – and brilliant – concept of Nightmare Kartan indie game recently released on Steam. And best of all, it’s free.
Developed by LWMedia, this title managed to mix two completely opposing worlds: the macabre brutality of Yharnam and the euphoria of colorful circuits. The result? A unique, frenetic, bloody experience… and strangely fun. The game already has more than 4,000 very positive reviews since its launch.
Gothic streets, steam vehicles… and racing shootouts
The visual universe of Nightmare Kart instantly evokes that of Bloodborne. There are misty alleys, menacing cathedrals and deformed creatures. But this time, you are behind the wheel of a hellish vehicle, racing at full speed against other participants as crazy as you.
As the developer describes it: “You are a beast hunter, forced to participate in a most unusual local custom: a tournament where participants race on mysterious vehicles made of copper and steam.”
The objective is not only to cross the finish line, but also to survive violent fights in the middle of the circuit. You can use crazy weapons to send your opponents flying, all in a stylized Lovecraftian atmosphere.
Nightmare Kart also includes drifting, boosts… and local multiplayer
Lovers of Mario Kart will not be lost: Nightmare Kart features familiar mechanics like speed boosts and drift turns. The driving is nervous, but surprisingly accessible for such a strange game. And to make matters worse, it is possible to play locally, with controllers, for evenings with friends.
Still according to the developer: “Race through bloodstained gothic streets behind the wheel of one of 12 unique vehicles, in search of answers to the origin of this nightmare.”
This mix of action, adrenaline and nightmare universe gives rise to a gameplay proposition rarely seen elsewhere – especially in a free game.
A free game, without traps, and full of personality
Available only on PC via Steam, Nightmare Kart is offered as a free download. No microtransactions, no traps: it’s a raw gift, designed with passion and an eye for detail.
While the big studios rely on remakes and predictable sequels, projects like this are a reminder of how surprising the independent scene can be. A wacky homage to two sacred video game monsters… to try without hesitation.