Kickstarter launches Thursday, January 15th, featuring limited founder tiers starting at $3 USD
Indie Developer Dark Tonic announced the launch of its Kickstarter campaign for Blunderbusted, an arcade-style shooter that blends classic light-gun action with modern roguelite design.
Often described as a fusion of The House of the Dead and Vampire Survivors, Blunderbusted delivers short, high-intensity runs built around run-defining choices, chaotic upgrades, and relentless enemy waves. Each session lasts just 5 to 10 minutes, making it easy to jump in while offering deep systems to master over time. Blunderbusted is currently available to wishlist on Steam.
Key Features
- Fast-paced, highly replayable runs
- Classic arcade-inspired light-gun shooting
- Run-based upgrades unlocked through leveling
- “Black Magic” modifiers purchased mid-run
- Pre-run gadgets that dramatically change gameplay rules
- Large enemy hordes and boss encounters
- Multiple distinct environments to battle through
- Support for mouse and keyboard, Steam Deck, and compatible light guns
(Additional controller support in development)
As wave after wave of enemies are defeated, players collect Corruption, which can be spent at Baba Yaga’s hut to purchase powerful Black Magic upgrades such as ricocheting or explosive rounds. Between runs, new gadgets are unlocked in Nikola Tesla’s lab, altering weapons and core mechanics in unexpected ways. Each biome introduces new enemies, hazards, and fearsome bosses, ensuring no two runs play out the same.
“The goal with Blunderbusted was to create something that feels immediately fun but endlessly replayable,” said Eric Boosman, Creative Director at Dark Tonic. “Short runs let you jump in fast, but the depth comes from the choices you make, every decision can completely reshape a run.”
Blunderbusted has been in development for several years, with Dark Tonic previously working part-time due to funding constraints. The Kickstarter campaign aims to support full-time development and expand the game’s scope through new environments, features, and polish. Full information can be found on the game’s Kickstarter page.
The campaign includes a wide range of rewards, from digital editions to high-end physical collectibles. Highlights include a custom Blunderbusted-themed blunderbuss light gun created in partnership with boutique manufacturer Blamcon, as well as a limited-quantity full-size arcade cabinet.
To help drive early momentum, Dark Tonic is offering two limited founder tiers:
- $3 Early Access tier available during the first 24 hours (1,000 backers)
- $5 Early Access tier available during the first 48 hours (1,000 backers)
Both tiers grant a digital copy of Blunderbusted with early access to the game, offering supporters a rare opportunity to back the project at a fraction of its eventual price.
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