We didn’t expect it so soon, and it’s completely free to play. An open-world RPG without quest markers that celebrates the freedom modern games often forget. Of Ash and Steel, developed by tinyBuild and Fire & Frost, launches on November 6.

In 2024, Steam saw the release of more than 18,000 games across all genres and publishers. With that level of competition, it’s easy for mid-sized and indie titles to go unnoticed among bigger blockbusters. But tinyBuild is stepping up with an open-world RPG that defies expectations. Their upcoming title, Of Ash and Steel, will be free to try this November.

The game takes players to the medieval island of Grayshaft, where they assume the role of Tristian, a cartographer struggling to explore and survive in a hostile, untamed world. It’s an intriguing concept that we’ll be able to test starting November 6 without paying a dime. A free demo is already available on Steam, letting players experience a portion of the adventure early.

One of the standout features of Of Ash and Steel is the absence of mission markers. Players must uncover story clues and objectives on their own, choosing freely how to complete each task. According to the developers, even a single mission can be finished in several ways — sneaking into a castle through a drain, negotiating with a guard, or scaling a wall from above — encouraging creativity and exploration.

Freedom in Combat and Everyday Life

The combat system embraces this same philosophy. Players can customize their skill tree based on weapon preference — from heavy two-handed axes to quick blades and rapiers. Stylish executions and adaptive fighting styles allow for a more personal and strategic approach to combat.

The game also integrates crafting and life-simulation mechanics. Players can hunt, fish, forge weapons, brew potions, and modify their equipment both functionally and cosmetically. Additionally, they can purchase and decorate their own homes on Grayshaft Island, tailoring both interior and exterior for a more personal in-game experience.

As the debut project from Fire & Frost, Of Ash and Steel draws clear inspiration from classic 2000s RPGs that prioritized immersion and discovery over constant guidance. With its minimalist HUD and emphasis on natural exploration, it aims to stand out in today’s crowded open-world landscape.

Source: 3djuegos