Dungeon Crawler Carl Meets Event Horizon In Free New Steam RPG
Nicholas Becher is a gaming journalist with an MFA in Creative Writing from FAU. With extensive experience playing video games, he covers all forms of gaming content at Screen Rant, from breaking news to the latest fan theories. Most-played games range from Clair Obscur to Civ to Elden Ring to Halo 2 and beyond.
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Steam has become one of the most popular gaming platforms in the world, and while its massive library of games and frequent sales are major selling points, its extensive collection of free demos is arguably one of its best features. With thousands of new releases competing for attention every year, being able to try a game before spending any money is an invaluable opportunity, especially when it comes to lesser-known indie titles that might otherwise fly under the radar.
Some of Steam's most hidden gems come from smaller developers willing to experiment with unusual concepts, blending genres and taking inspiration from beloved franchises.
One particularly intriguing new release looks like the perfect combination of Matt Dinniman's wildly popular Dungeon Crawler Carl series and the terrifying sci-fi horror of Event Horizon. Better yet, players can experience this nightmarish adventure for themselves without spending a penny, thanks to a free demo that's available on Steam.
Descent of Lunaris is an upcoming sci-fi dungeon crawler from indie developer Unison Games that combines tactical RPG gameplay with a terrifying cosmic horror premise. Set in 2070, the story begins when a lunar mining operation detects a mysterious signal originating deep beneath the moon's surface. Shortly afterward, the facility's machines turn hostile, prompting a team of operatives to investigate. However, there's something far more sinister lurking underneath.
The combination of RPG mechanics, dangerous dungeons, and bizarre enemies makes Descent of Lunaris a perfect game for Dungeon Crawler Carl fans, while its nightmarish sci-fi atmosphere feels reminiscent of Event Horizon. The actual gameplay draws inspiration from classic dungeon crawlers like Wizardry and Shin Megami Tensei, featuring grid-based exploration and turn-based combat.
Players assemble a four-person squad, choosing from nine classes and 18 subclasses with different abilities and combat specialties. There are also two distinct combat systems: traditional first-person encounters with party formation and tactical battles where positioning and environmental hazards are the focus. The full game also promises over 200 unique skills, along with opportunities to upgrade equipment and customize characters.
One of the most interesting features is the game's Stability System, which alters reality as players explore deeper underground. As stability deteriorates, enemies become more dangerous, environments can change, and previously inaccessible areas or encounters may become available. This creates an interesting risk-versus-reward dynamic, as players must decide whether to continue exploring or retreat to their base.
Fortunately, a free demo for Descent of Lunaris is already available on Steam, offering a substantial intro to the adventure. Players begin with a narrative-driven prologue involving a disastrous experiment, scientists transforming into grotesque monsters, and an encounter with a cosmic entity.
After completing the prologue, players can create their own squad and explore the game's entire first dungeon, experimenting with different classes, abilities, and combat strategies. The demo has received positive early feedback, with 95% of its 21 Steam user reviews being positive as of October 31, 2026. The full release is currently listed for 2026, although an exact launch date hasn't been announced.
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