A playful game released in October 2023, Russians vs. Lizards, quickly rose into the top ten of Steam’s Russian-language catalog. A review highlighted the clever premise and the potential for future spin-offs. Since then, the developer team rolled out a spin-off and teased a comic series based on the concept, hinting at a full sequel down the line. This piece imagines how other celebrated epic heroes might star in similar adventures.
Dobrynya Nikitich: Battle of the Kalinov Bridge
- Genre: slasher and role-playing game;
- Closest analogue: God of War from 2018.
This adventure follows the path of a legendary Russian warrior. Players engage in friendly duels with rival heroes, clash with Tugarin the Serpent and Nightingale the Robber in grand set pieces, and encounter a pivotal moment with the heroine Nastasya Mikulishna. As the journey unfolds, new abilities unlock and rare weapons appear, including the coveted Treasure Sword.
Snake Gorynych: Death from Heaven
- Genre: dragon simulation;
- Closest analogue: Divinity II: Ego Draconis for dragon-centered gameplay.
The concept centers on inhabiting the dragon Gorynych. The player begins as a hatchling barely able to defend itself, then grows stronger and starts to threaten villages and even people. Fire breath and flight evolve into powerful tools as the world witnesses a transformation from fledgling to formidable menace, while local heroes strive to stop the threat.
The Incredible Adventures of Emelya
An interactive film following the lazy hero Emelya and a magical pike that grants wishes. Each wish must be used wisely, because reckless choices lead to surprising and sometimes unpredictable outcomes. The narrative offers many branching paths and dozens of possible endings.
Have you played Russians vs. Lizards?
Novgorod Veche: the Legacy of Rurik
- Genre: real-time strategy and city-building simulator;
- Closest analogue: The Colonists series.
Players assume leadership of a small settlement, guiding it toward prosperity. Wooden forts must be erected, aggressive neighbors confronted, and choices made between paganism and Christianity. Meeting the needs of the population helps prevent rebellion, and the chosen principality shapes future prospects. Suzdal and Rostov require sturdy defenses, while Novgorod tests leadership during council meetings to prove capable rule.
Mongol-Tatar Yoke: Hammer of War
- Genre: global strategy with real-time battles;
- Closest analogue: the Total War series.
For players who crave vast empires, this strategy places control over multiple Russian principalities. Trading, diplomacy, and warfare must be balanced to repel the Mongol threat. It is also possible to face Batu Khan and direct Golden Horde armies against neighboring powers, offering a different kind of strategic satisfaction.
Evenings on a Farm Near the Velesa River
- Genre: graphic novel-style storytelling;
- Closest analogue: Eternal Summer.
This title centers on village romance with the first beauties of the countryside: Zabava, Lyubushka, and Anfisa, the prince’s daughter. Each character has distinct interests and ways of speaking. Bold suitors may explore unusual relationships with a mermaid named Mavka or a guardian spirit named Bereginya. Yet dealings with malevolent spirits carry consequences, so choices carry weight.
Koschei the Immortal Must Die
Koschey, tired of endless life, seeks to end his immortality. Reaching the coffin on a distant island requires a long voyage, and adversaries will attempt to stop him. The villain relies on stealth and cunning rather than open confrontation.
Sadko: Journey to the Bottom of the Sea
The story follows the singer Sadko, who makes a deal with the sea king for riches. The price is steep, as the ruler demands more than gold or pearls; he wants Sadko’s own head. Only musical talent can save him, and a harp-like device becomes the key to the performance that could alter the course of events.
Vasilisa the Beautiful Against the Shamakhan Queen
- Genre: adventure;
- Closest analogue: Tomb Raider series.
Deception and danger follow Ivan, who is betrothed to Vasilisa the Fair. The heroine resolves to fight for her happiness, venturing abroad to pursue her beloved. Unexpected encounters and sudden discoveries await, and the brave heroine refuses to be deterred by danger at every turn.
Three Heroes: In the Footsteps of the Filthy Idol
Action-platforming focused on Russian legends. Dobrynya Nikitich wields a shield and closes in with a sword, Alyosha Popovich fires from a bow, and Ilya Muromets strikes with a long spear. Success depends on using each hero’s skills to solve puzzles and defeat foes. The game supports solo or cooperative play.
Do cartoons about heroes appeal to you?
Veles’ Night: The Wrath of Chernobog
- Genre: horror;
- Closest analogue: Silent Hill.
The tale follows a young man, Svyatopolk, who dismisses tales of evil spirits as superstition, only to awaken the wrath of Chernobog. Haunted by nightmarish creatures from various realms, Svyatopolk must navigate a world where survival hinges on facing fears that refuse to fade with dawn.
The Princess-Non-Smeyana: Laughter Through Tears
A classic Russian quest inspired by favorites like Petka and the early Pilot Brothers. The mission asks players to investigate why the princess never smiles, complete a bit of sleuthing, and uncover what truly makes her grin again.
Would you like to see one of these games become real, or do you have your own ideas? Share your creative thoughts in the comments.
End of showcase