Astral Throne 2: Age of the Phoenix is a new Steam roguelite strategy RPG that combines turn-based meta-progression with both grid-based and turn-based combat. Its premise and execution naturally invite comparisons to a mix of Hades and Final Fantasy Tactics.
Developed by Ontario, Canada-based Zero Sun Games, Age of the Phoenix is a sequel to a game that is currently less than a year old—Astral Throneoriginally released via Steam in early February 2025. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success, the original was well received by strategy RPG fans and received critical acclaim. It has a “Mighty” rating on OpenCritic, based on an average rating of 84 and a 100% recommendation rating, placing it in the 93rd percentile of all titles tracked by the platform.
Astral Throne 2 is announced, now available for Steam wishlist
The other one Astral Throne the title was officially announced on November 7. Subtitled Age of the Phoenixit may currently be wishlist on Steam. Zero Sun Games says the sequel will retain its predecessor's deep party synergy, hand-crafted encounters with plenty of variety, and permadeath mechanics, while placing a greater emphasis on story. Mechanically, it will still largely play as Final Fantasy Tactics or Fire emblemwith turn-based battles on grid-based maps.
In between Final Fantasy Tactics-style battles, the upcoming title will incorporate meta-progression mechanics seen in a typical roguelite. Runs that drive a long-term mission forward and relationships that deepen between trials will both be part of the package, along with class-driven builds. The game's story is written by Shami Stovall, an award-winning novelist known for fantasy works such as Timed Warlock and The Frith Chronicles.
Astral Throne 2 targets 2026 release, demo coming soon
Astral Throne 2: Age of the Phoenix has so far only been confirmed for PC ie Steam. While other versions remain a possibility, the original Astral Throne never expanded beyond Valve's platform, making further ports unlikely. Zero Sun Games has yet to reveal the price, but if the first game is any indication, the sequel will likely be released for around $19.99. The Canadian developer is currently targeting a 2026 release. In a recent social media post, the studio said it is finishing a demo in early November 2025, with plans to release it early next year. Given that timeline and the lack of a firm release window, a launch in the second half of 2026 seems more likely than the first, barring delays.
