Hero’s Hand is the Ultimate Poker-Based Rogue-like RPG Adventure
Card games and RPGs have always had their loyal fans, but what happens when you blend the two with rogue-like elements? You get Hero’s Hand, the latest genre-defying game from Raleigh-based developer Villain Games. Set to release in 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, Hero’s Hand is a wild, single-player adventure where poker isn’t just a game — it’s a weapon.
Players take on the role of the Knight of Spades and journey through the unpredictable land of Carduia. This isn’t your usual poker night. Here, cards don’t just decide your hand; they determine your weapons, abilities, and even fate. Every move counts as you battle monstrous foes, unlock powerful relics, and shape your legend in an ever-changing world.
The Perfect Mash-Up: Poker, RPG, and Rogue-like Gameplay
What makes Hero’s Hand so exciting is its unique fusion of mechanics. The game takes the strategic depth of poker and merges it with the progression systems of RPGs and the unpredictability of rogue-likes. Every run is different, making it endlessly replayable. Your choices and luck dictate how the adventure unfolds, but skillful play will give you an edge.
The core of the game revolves around forming poker hands from the cards you collect while navigating the world. These hands transform into powerful spirit weapons, essential for taking down a variety of wild and challenging creatures. The better your hand, the stronger your attack. But beware—the monsters of Carduia are no pushovers. They, too, wield unique powers that can shift the tide of battle.
Equip, Upgrade, and Strategize for Victory
Beyond the poker mechanics, Hero’s Hand features an extensive RPG system. As you progress, you’ll unlock new abilities, weapons, and armor. Powerful relics can enhance your build, but every choice has a cost. Do you spend your hard-earned gold on a game-changing artifact, or do you save it for future encounters?
A cross-run leveling system ensures that every attempt helps your character grow. The more you play, the more upgrades and buffs you unlock, giving you better odds in subsequent runs. Fortune favors the bold in Carduia, and the deeper you go, the more rewards (and dangers) you’ll uncover.
A Rich and Mysterious World to Explore
Beyond the action-packed combat, Hero’s Hand also delivers a compelling narrative experience. The world of Carduia is filled with hidden lore, side quests, and choose-your-own-adventure moments. Players can uncover secrets, solve puzzles, and gather rare items by engaging with the game’s rich backstory. With over 30 mystery spots scattered throughout the realm, there’s always something new to discover.
Every adventure is different, thanks to the game’s randomized structure. No two runs will ever be the same, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. With a promise of post-launch updates, Hero’s Hand aims to keep players engaged for a long time.
What to Expect from Hero’s Hand
Villain Games has packed Hero’s Hand with tons of features to ensure an unforgettable gaming experience:
- Four playable characters, each with unique abilities.
- A deep RPG progression system that carries across runs.
- Over 180 Fortunes that provide special buffs and advantages.
- More than 60 different scrolls and potions to aid in combat.
- 60+ unique enemy encounters, ensuring variety and challenge.
- 30+ lore-infused mystery locations with interactive storytelling elements.
- Randomized runs, making each playthrough feel fresh and rewarding.
