Produced by Brazilian studio The Root Studios and published by Nuntius Games, Shard Squad is a bullet heaven roguelite featuring charming pixel art visuals, and it finally arrives on XBOX consoles today with Xbox Play Anywhere support after months of anticipation.

Starring an adorable cast of little monsters known as Shards, the game blends action and strategy against increasingly intense enemy hordes without sacrificing on-screen clarity. Players recruit new creatures throughout each run and build powerful synergies, making every playthrough feel like a new discovery.

A Cast that Will Warm your Heart

What truly makes the game special is the care and personality poured into each of its adorable monsters. According to Shard Squad director Rennan Costa, the team wanted to create a world that felt alive and ensure that its more than 20 playable Shards would be seen as more than just gameplay mechanics. Some were even inspired by the developers’ own pets in an effort to share that same emotional bond with players.

“In many games, character choice ends up being based only on which one is the strongest or which ability best matches your playstyle. That’s important, of course, but we wanted there to be a connection beyond the mechanics,” Rennan says.

“That’s why we created a universe where the Shards have relationships with one another. They can be friends, family members, rivals, or simply share important moments in the story. That context gives each character a stronger identity and makes them feel like they truly belong in a living world. In the end, that creates a deeper connection with the player: they don’t choose a character only because they’re powerful, but because they like them, their personality, their design, and the story they carry.”

An adventure Full of Possibilities — Now Even Moreso on XBOX

Shard Squad is packed with content designed to provide many hours of gameplay and memorable moments. With the game’s arrival on XBOX, every monster comes equipped with the Prime Evolution system, allowing them to evolve during a run and unlock an exclusive appearance along with even more powerful techniques to overcome challenges.

You can also choose from more than 90 relics with unique effects that help shape your own playstyle. Experimentation is the key.

As you survive the hordes and evolve your Shards, special events may occur that grant even more rewards. Explore the possibilities and play your way!

If you’re thinking about giving Shard Squad a try and want a tip to get started on the right foot, the studio already knows exactly what you should focus on.

“The main tip is to pay close attention to the synergy system. Each Shard has three synergies based on its element, appearance, or even its relationships with other Shards. Combining Shards that share the same synergy grants unique bonuses that make your squad even stronger!”

A Major Achievement for the Brazilian Developer

Shard Squad’s launch on Xbox is a major milestone for The Root Studios. In Rennan’s words: “The fulfillment of a dream!”

According to Rennan, when he was younger, the idea of having a game published on XBOX felt incredibly distant, and seeing that dream finally become reality is surreal—especially considering that this is the studio’s first released game.

Reaching a new audience also comes with the hope that the emotions the team set out to create will resonate with new players. “I want people to get to know and fall in love with our Shards,” says Rennan. “The process of unlocking them and discovering their designs and stories has captivated many players, and I want XBOX players to experience that same feeling.”. Embark on your story today!

Shard Squad

Nuntius Games

☆☆☆☆☆
6

★★★★★

$6.99

$6.29

Survive an insane army of enemies with a squad of elemental creatures! Recruit new members for your team by defeating the bosses that cross your path, and combine their traits to unlock powerful effects! Unity not only brings strength, it also creates new abilities!

MEET THE SHARDS

Over 20 Shards can join your squad! Experiment and discover which ones will become your favorites!

FORM AN ELEMENTAL SQUAD

Choose Shards of Fire, Electric, Water, Nature, and Crystal! Your squad, your rules! Build the team of your dreams to survive the crisis devastating the world of Mellunia!

COMBINE TRAITS

Each Shard has three distinct traits capable of unlocking powerful abilities and effects! Having more than one creature with the desired trait in your team will increase your squad’s power level!

OVERCOME CHALLENGES

Unique events and powerful bosses will appear to test your squad’s skills! Overcome these challenges to earn special rewards for your survival!