Yogscast Games has released new details about Rhell: Warped Worlds & Troubled Times, a semi-open-world adventure set to launch March 12 on PC via Steam. The update arrives as part of a new developer deep dive aimed at outlining the game’s core ideas and setting expectations ahead of release.

Developed by SlugGlove, Rhell places players in a fantasy realm shaped by ancient magic and long-forgotten history. Players assume the role of Rhell, a lone figure tasked with restoring a vanished world and uncovering the forces that caused its collapse. According to the studio, the game introduces key rules early on, while leaving much of its logic and lore to be discovered through exploration.

Rather than relying on traditional quest markers or linear progression, Rhell emphasizes observation and experimentation. The world is designed to gradually reveal its structure, with environmental clues and cryptic encounters guiding players toward solutions. The approach positions curiosity as a core mechanic, encouraging players to engage with the setting on its own terms.

RHELL: WARPED WORLDS & TROUBLED TIMES: DEEP DIVE SERIES

A central feature of Rhell is its puzzle system, which revolves around spellcasting through combinations of magical keywords known as runes. There are 14 primary regions, each containing a sequence of challenges that must be solved to progress. These puzzles can involve manipulating the environment, interacting with non-playable characters, or testing unconventional solutions.

SlugGlove founder and game creator Alice Jarratt said the studio wanted magic to feel embedded in the world rather than treated as a standalone tool. “Every location carries traces of ancient influence,” Jarratt said, adding that the team prioritized discovery over direct instruction when designing progression.

Beyond the main path, each region contains hidden elements and optional secrets. Player choices can influence how events unfold, leading to different outcomes by the game’s conclusion. The developers say this flexibility is intended to distinguish Rhell from more guided adventure titles.