Kickstarter Launch for "Rise of Elements"

Indie game studio Wicked Fox Games has opened the doors to an exciting Kickstarter campaign to fund its first-ever title, the match-3 RPG "Rise of Elements." The campaign, which runs from March 4 to April 3, 2025, promises a treasure trove of backer rewards, including exclusive skins, closed playtesting, early access, physical items, and various other perks tailored to different support tiers.

Game Overview and Inspiration

Inspired by the cinematic storytelling of modern RPGs and the competitive edge of match-3 mechanics, "Rise of Elements" transports players into the vibrant world of Argos, where they can engage in epic battles and strategize to become masters of elemental forces. This game is not just a simple puzzle experience; it intertwines narrative richness and competitive gameplay to create an immersive experience that is set to rival many leading titles in the industry.

Development Background

Originally a prototype developed nearly a decade ago by Wicked Fox CEO Terry Redfield and another team member, "Rise of Elements" is best described as the spiritual successor to the beloved 2015 puzzle battler "Force of Elements." Players will encounter a variety of modes, including Timed, Moves, and Story modes, with more options expected to emerge based on community feedback.

Community Engagement and Feedback

Redfield shared, “We were inspired by the strong demand for games that blend casual gameplay with deep storytelling. Feedback from players of titles like Candy Crush highlighted a desire for more competitive mechanics within a narrative framework, which fueled the creation of this game. Within the first 24 hours, we hit 20% of our funding goal—a clear indication of interest in our vision.”

Future Projects

The development team is also turning its sights toward another forthcoming project, "Fires at Night," which aims to weave narratives inspired by various cultural legends, starting with stories rooted in Hawaiian mythology. This smaller narrative RPG will feature survival elements and embraces the team's cultural heritage, striving to resonate with a global audience.

Unique Features

What sets "Rise of Elements" apart is its diverse roster of champions, each equipped with unique attributes and elemental powers. This strategic element promises depth and variety, maintaining engagement even after countless hours of play. Notably, the game will feature collaborations with online personalities, such as streamer Trisha Hershberger, who voices the character Cordelia, and plans are in motion for a future champion voiced by popular creator LilyPichu.

Mission of Inclusivity and Cultural Representation

In an interview from the Dice Summit, Redfield discussed the studio's mission of inclusivity and cultural representation. “We’re committed to building relatable characters and stories deeply rooted in mythology from various cultures—making gaming experiences that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide," he explained.

Release Plans

Looking ahead, "Rise of Elements" is slated for a second half of 2026 release on premium PC platforms like Steam, with plans for expansion into other platforms.

About Wicked Fox Games

Founded in 2024, Wicked Fox Games is driven by a mission to craft engaging, storytelling-driven experiences that reflect the diverse tapestry of players across the globe. With a team of fewer than 30 dedicated professionals, the studio is currently seeking partners and funding to support its transition into a major player in the gaming industry.

Team Background

With veterans like Redfield, whose impressive track record includes contributions to games like "Psychonauts," "Dungeons and Dragons," and "League of Legends," and CTO Caerie Houchins, a former senior engineering manager at Riot Games who recently became a professional magician, Wicked Fox Games is poised not only to launch "Rise of Elements" but to build a stable of imaginative titles that harness the power of collaborative storytelling.

Call to Action

Will you back "Rise of Elements" and be a part of this groundbreaking journey into the world of competitive RPGs? Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to experience what could become a reshape of the match-3 genre!