In the realm of indie gaming, few titles command attention quite like Hark, the atmospheric card game crafted by solo developer protzz. Born from a sleepless 48-hour Ludum Dare sprint, Hark is a haunting blend of roguelike deck-building and psychological horror, drawing inspiration from genre titans like Inscryption and Balatro. Yet, Hark carves its own niche, offering a uniquely unsettling experience that beckons players into its eerie embrace.
At its core, Hark challenges players to navigate a labyrinthine map, confronting a series of card-based puzzles and challenges. Each encounter demands strategic thinking, as players must assemble hands that satisfy specific conditions—be it achieving an odd total or crafting particular combinations. The game’s intuitive controls—clicking to select and dragging to place cards—mirror the tactile sensation of handling physical cards, enhancing immersion.
Designed with accessibility in mind, Hark is fully playable on both PC and mobile devices. Touchscreen users can tap to select and hold to drag cards into place, ensuring a seamless experience across platforms. This versatility allows players to heed Hark’s call wherever they may be.
Visually, Hark envelops players in a pixelated world steeped in darkness and mystery. Its minimalist art style, combined with a haunting soundtrack, cultivates an atmosphere of unease and curiosity. The game’s design choices reinforce its horror elements, making each decision feel weighty and consequential.
Despite its prototype status, Hark has garnered a commendable 4.7 out of 5 stars from 58 ratings on itch.io. Players have lauded its innovative mechanics and gripping ambiance, though some have noted bugs and areas for improvement. Developer protzz remains actively engaged with the community, addressing feedback and outlining plans for future updates. Notably, there’s an aspiration to expand Hark and release it on Steam by summer 2026, with ongoing enhancements on itch.io throughout 2025.
In a landscape teeming with card games, Hark distinguishes itself through its fusion of strategic gameplay and haunting narrative. It’s more than a game; it’s an invitation to explore the shadows, to confront the unknown, and to embrace the thrill of the macabre.
