Hades Fans Need to Try 2019’s Co-op Riff on the Roguelike Formula
Children of Morta, an indie co-op roguelike developed by Dead Mage, offers a narratively-driven alternative for players seeking emotionally resonant dungeon crawlers with family dynamics at their core. The game follows the Bergson clan as they navigate a crisis threatening their mountain home within a dark fantasy setting.
Dead Mage secured funding for the project in 2015, launching it into early access in 2019 where it remained until 2020. The game exceeded the studio’s expectations substantially—the overwhelming player response during early access drove Dead Mage to significantly expand Children of Morta beyond their original vision, adding considerably more playable characters and build items than initially planned.
What distinguishes Children of Morta from similar roguelikes is its focus on family drama as a central narrative element within the action gameplay. Rather than following a single hero’s journey, players experience interconnected stories within the Bergson clan during their period of crisis. The game’s extended early access period and subsequent expansion showcase successful community-driven development, positioning it as a notable example of how indie roguelikes can combine engaging action with meaningful character and family-focused storytelling.