Starmi

Starmi, formerly Lionheart Games, was an independent game developer founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2019. The studio focused on anime-inspired action games for mobile devices and PC, combining cel-shaded visuals with action RPG combat and social multiplayer experiences. It adopted the Starmi public brand in late 2022 while retaining its underlying legal entity.

Its principal project was Dragonspire, an anime-styled action roguelike set in the world of Asteria. Originally designed as a mobile-first game with cross-play PC capabilities, it combined elemental combat, pet incubation and online cooperative play. The project brought together the studio’s work in game design, combat programming, character modeling, animation and rigging.

Dragonspire entered Steam Early Access on July 14, 2023. The release encountered significant problems with server architecture and multiplayer connectivity. Within a week, the studio announced that it had exhausted its operating funds and that team members would need to seek other employment. The development studio ceased operations in July 2023, before the planned full mobile release could take place.

Multiplayer functionality was subsequently removed, leaving a standalone single-player build on Steam. The Early Access release therefore represents the studio’s released game credit, rather than evidence that its original mobile and cooperative development plans were completed.

Following the shutdown, the Starmi name continued as an independent consulting label associated with product management, live-service operations and Unreal Editor for Fortnite design. This later consulting activity is distinct from the former staffed game development operation. Both historical studio website domains subsequently expired and became parked domains.