Counterplay Games

Counterplay Games is an independent video game development studio founded in 2013. Based legally in California and operating with a globally distributed, remote-first team, it develops games built around repeatable mastery, tactical decision-making and fast-paced combat. Its work spans tactical card games, third-person action RPGs and roguelite shooters, with development capabilities covering game design, engineering, art, production and platform optimization.

The studio made its debut with Duelyst in 2016, combining collectible card mechanics with turn-based tactical strategy. It subsequently moved into AAA-scale third-person action with Godfall, released in 2020. The fantasy action RPG established the studio’s approach to the “looter-slasher”: a framework pairing melee combat with equipment progression and high-fidelity presentation. Announced as a PlayStation 5 launch exclusive, the game later expanded to PlayStation 4, PC and Xbox platforms. Godfall: Ultimate Edition followed in 2022.

Current development

Counterplay’s next title, Armatus, is a third-person action roguelite shooter set in the demon-infested ruins of a post-apocalyptic Paris. Its combat combines gunplay with supernatural abilities. Published by Fictions, the game is planned for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch 2. Public demos began rolling out in February 2026, with the full release planned for 2026/2027 according to the supplied research.

Across these projects, the studio’s technical and creative capabilities include combat systems, character and environment art, Unreal Engine architecture, console porting, graphics optimization and multiplayer infrastructure. Its portfolio reflects a progression from tactical strategy toward larger-scale action games while retaining an emphasis on combat mechanics and replayability.

Counterplay publicly unveiled Armatus in November 2025, demonstrating its continued operation after earlier reports that the studio had disbanded. The announcement marked the continuation of its own development programme and its transition toward a leaner core team.