Discover the Creative Side of Mathematics in Talystro, a Roguelite Deckbuilder Where Numbers Become Weapons
Independent Norwegian studio Filiokus today announced Talystro, a roguelite deckbuilder that challenges players to think differently about combat by turning mathematics into its core weapon. Inspired by genre standouts like Slay the Spire and Balatro, Talystro combines dice rolls, cards, and creative arithmetic, casting players as the unlikely Math Mouse standing against the evil Necrodicer and an army of corrupted numbers brought to life.
In Talystro, combat isn’t about slowly chipping away at enemy health. Instead, players must match the exact value of their enemies to defeat them instantly. Each card contains unfinished calculations, variables, and modifiers, while dice rolls dynamically shape the possibilities available each turn. Success depends on understanding order of operations, adapting to shifting probabilities, and making strategic decisions as each encounter unfolds.
Visually, Talystro stands apart with a style inspired by 1920s illustration and animation, featuring hand-drawn, frame-by-frame attack animations that celebrate craftsmanship and the joy of visual expression. The game also places a strong emphasis on accessibility, with no time-based input requirements and a static camera during gameplay, ensuring a thoughtful experience for players with different needs.
“Talystro is built on our belief that mathematics is fundamentally creative,” said founders of Filiokus studio, Martin Lothe Sæterdal and Gjermund Mørkved Bohne.
“Games are works of art powered by math, and with Talystro we wanted to bring that connection to the forefront. By combining probability-driven systems with strategic arithmetic, we’re inviting players to experiment, adapt, and discover the beauty of problem-solving through play.”
KEY FEATURES
Dice & Card Hybrid Combat: Combine dice rolls and cards to create calculations that exactly match enemy values.
Skill-Based Roguelite Gameplay: Strategic decision-making, creative problem-solving, and smart resource management drive every run.
Deep Progression Systems: Upgrade and enchant cards and dice, unlock new content through meta progression, and refine your starting deck.
Multiple Acts & Bosses: Explore three distinct acts, each culminating in a unique boss encounter.
Hand-Drawn Visual Style: Frame-by-frame animations inspired by early 20th-century illustration and animation.
Accessible by Design: No time pressure, no camera movement during gameplay, and systems designed for thoughtful play.