Hound 13 released a demo for its open world RPG, 'Dragon Sword: Awakening,' on Steam today (the 5th).

'Dragon Sword: Awakening' is a title Hound 13 is preparing to re-release under its own publishing after transitioning from 'Dragon Sword,' which was previously launched via Webzen in January. The game is shifting from a live-service model to a package game, allowing players to acquire characters through in-game play rather than gacha mechanics. While the developer had initially planned to release the demo during Steam Next Fest to gather feedback, they moved up the schedule and released it today (the 5th).

This demo includes the first chapter of the main story and allows players to try out 9 of the 19 announced playable characters. After clearing the story, players can explore parts of the Orbis region. The game also supports Steam Deck and controllers; however, the developer noted that since it has not yet received 'Verified' status, smooth gameplay on Steam Deck may not be guaranteed.

Meanwhile, ahead of the demo release, Hound 13 answered user questions during an AMA session on the 27th. They explained that as the game has transitioned from a live service to a single-player package game, the fatigue system has been removed, and improvements are being made to reduce repetitive gameplay. They also added that since the game is now PC-exclusive, they are refining graphics such as lighting, and are preparing new content like the 'Tower of Trials.' They also reiterated that it is a 100% package game that can be played to the ending without an internet connection.

Following the release of a video on the 29th showcasing the renewed character 'Ceris'—following the protagonist 'Lute'—the developer held a producer livestream today alongside the demo release to provide a glimpse of content coming at the official launch. The livestream featured combat gameplay for the new character 'Charlotte,' actual gameplay of the 'Tower of Trials,' exploration of the Orbis region, and Steam lobby-based cooperative multiplayer raids. While some of this content is available in the demo, features like the 'Tower of Trials' are slated for the official release.

The 'Dragon Sword: Awakening' demo is available from today (the 5th) until 2:00 AM on the 24th, with the official launch scheduled for this July. Further details can be found on the Steam page.