EthrA is a 3D pixel-art open-world action RPG developed and self-published by StoneLab Games. You travel a fantasy continent shaped by the remains of an ancient civilization, with two protagonists at your side the whole way: Bob, a farm boy who handles close-range fighting, and Veil, a member of a rare magic-affinity species who casts spells and buffs. The story follows the pair as they slowly unravel a thousand-year-old lie. (Last checked: September 22, 2026, against the official site and Steam page.)
Dual-character combat
The core of EthrA is controlling both characters at the same time — this is a single-player control scheme, not two players on one team. Bob handles melee with weapons, tools, and artifacts, while Veil damages enemies with magic and supports with buffs.
You have three ways to run the pair:
- Mounted: Veil rides on Bob's back. Both characters act as one, Veil stays protected, and you focus on Bob's movement and attacks.
- On the ground: Veil fights under your orders. Enemies must split their attention between two targets, which opens opportunities — but Veil is physically weak, and losing him means losing your magical support.
- Auto mode: Veil acts on his own. The developers recommend it even for experienced players when things get hectic.
Learning when to keep Veil safe and when to separate the two is the skill EthrA's combat is built around.
Weapons, magic, and builds
Bob carries two weapon sets, and each hand equips independently, so you can swap between setups mid-fight. As of the developers' September 2026 campaign update, the implemented weapons are swords, shields, spears, greatswords, and bows, with more planned — check the current Steam page for what's live today. Veil's spell loadout is customizable to complement the way you play Bob. New melee moves, spells, artifacts, and gear unlock as the story progresses.
Exploration and activities
The continent holds ruins, towns, rumors, and quests. Official materials also show quieter systems: fishing, mining, cooking, farming, gathering, and a home base where you craft and upgrade gear. EthrA crystals gathered in the world slot into equipment to boost magical attacks. Note that these systems are developer-shown features of the finished game's direction — they are not a guarantee of everything playable in the current playtest.
What about playing with friends?
EthrA's dual-character control is often mistaken for co-op. It isn't: the current playtest is single-player, and multiplayer is a planned feature. See the multiplayer status page for exactly what has been confirmed.
What can I play right now?
The playable entry is the Steam Playtest — an early prototype focused on core combat and exploration. The playtest guide walks through requesting access, and the Steam page guide covers requirements and safe installation.