Fresh Spirit Swap Updates!

We wanted to make sure that everyone got a hefty update about what we’re up to, as it’s been a minute. Two or three minutes, really! We mentioned this in our recent Kickstarter Backer’s update, but want to reiterate it here more widely:

The year has been full of hard work as well as personal heartache and challenges for the team. We’re truly appreciative that you’ve all been patient and kind as we navigate this wonderful thing called ‘game development’ while maintaining our day jobs, and, well, everything.

One of the rewards for Kickstarter Backers who supported at the Witch’s Groove tier and beyond was exclusive access to a Spirit Swap Backer Beta, and we’re proud to say that we’ve reached that milestone! The Backer Beta is live today (we’re pushing it out and sending keys RIGHT NOW), and we’re officially coming out of heads-down mode to share what we’ve been working on over the last year, both in terms of development and regarding our launch plans. But first? Some enticing gifs for youuuu ~







Please note: if you are a Kickstarter Backer at the Witch's Groove tier (and above) and you haven't received your beta key by around 10 am PST today, check your spam folder (just in case) and then feel free to reach out to us at contact (at) softnotweak (dot) com.

[h2]Check, check, 1…2…3…[/h2]

The VO is finally totally implemented, and it’s incredible to see (hear?) each of our characters come to life. We had eight talented voice actors contribute their skills to this endeavor, and wanted to take the time to introduce each of them to you with one of their Versus lines in the game. To hear a victory bark, click on the character's name (linked below each image).

Want to see more about each voice actor? We've linked more info for each: just click on their name!

Samar - Jay Taylor

Mo - NJ Agwuma

Kedsi - Kadecia

Kanon, Pookie - Jalen K. Cassell

Leon, Citrine, Iolite - Fiona Rene

Dio, Variquoise - Mara Junot

Cleo, Larvikite - Kendall Byrd

Iskandar - Greyson Yousif

Theo, Lulu, Beryl - Anjali Kunapaneni

What’s that, you say? Some of these names don’t have links? And you don't know who those unlinked characters are?!

👀 We’re still keeping some snippets under wraps and saved for later ~

[h2]Make it shine[/h2]

Continued polish is the big focus now. During the backer beta (which is from September 17 - November 12), we’ll be taking feedback to continue to shine up every aspect of the game that we can, adding details to really make it feel great to play. Here are some of the bits of polish we’ve added (and are working to add):


A snazzy “Got Item” pop up so you can really celebrate the gifts your friends give you!


More expressions, like this panicked Lulu!


….and this INTENSE Lulu!


Exploring more ways to add more information to the world map so you can keep track of how you’re spending your time in Demashq.


And more!

[h2]Wait! What about Fashion and BHYG Mode?[/h2]

They’re still coming along! These two elements are still planned, but their complexity means they’ll likely be included in an update not too long after the main launch of the game.

[h2]A new trailer is in the works[/h2]

What’s that? A fresh trailer? YUP! We are in the process of getting ready to announce the release date, which means storyboarding and starting to prep the launch trailer. For funsies, here’s a sneak peek at a favorite early WIP storyboard frame…


Blurry, chaotic, and cute. Very relatable.

…and the turnaround of Samar that Sam has been working on:


[h2]So, when is the full game coming out? [/h2]

When deciding when to release the game, we’re not only take into account when the game is done -- we’re also tracking other game releases and event opportunities that can help us reach the most folks with the news.

Because of a few opportunities we’re aiming for (and for a bit of a full circle moment for ourselves), we’ve decided to release in early 2025. We’re tossing around a couple of specific dates, and depending on what additional support we can garner, that may impact which one we go with. (hee hee hee ho ho ho, marketing witchcraft and secrets)

As soon as we can share an official date, we will let you know! But for now, we sincerely hope that you’ve enjoyed this update. We’ll be aiming to post monthly again now that we’re in the midst of the Backer Beta.

Have fun in Demashq!

💜 The Spirit Swap team



PS: SPEEEEENING