Step back into the 17th century with Hellish Quart, a fighting game like no other. Developed by the talented Jakub Kisiel and his team at Kubold, this 3D fighting game about historical fencing isn’t just a game—it’s a love letter to historical fencing and European martial arts. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Hellish Quart: its gameplay, features, and what makes it one of the most unique games in Early Access.
Set in the historical 17th-century Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Hellish Quart doesn’t just throw you into random sword fighting duels. Instead, it immerses you in the intricacies of the era’s martial culture. The characters you control are not your typical fighting game archetypes. From Polish Hussars to French Musketeers, Crimean Tatars, Zaporozhian Cossacks, Turkish Janissaries, and Swedish Reiters, the roster reflects a rich tapestry of warriors from the time.
The weapons are just as diverse, featuring sabres, broadswords, rapiers, and many other blades—even the mighty German longsword. The attention to detail doesn’t stop there. Using 3D-scanned reconstructions, the character models are made with authentic clothing, and the game recreates the look and feel of the 17th century with painstaking accuracy. The snowy landscapes, battle-worn arenas, and stunning period costumes transport you straight into the pages of history. Whether you’re dueling in a serene forest clearing or a chaotic battlefield, the immersive environments add depth to every match. Set in 17th-century Europe, the game's environments are both beautiful and historically accurate.
Unlike most fighting games, Hellish Quart isn’t about spamming combos or depleting a health bar. It’s a physics-based, sword-fighting game that rewards precision, timing, and strategy. The swords physically clash and block using real-time physics, creating a dynamic combat system where every move counts.
This is a game where your tactics—and your blade—do the talking. Think you can win with brute force? Not here. Every duel is a chess match where your opponent's blade is a constant threat. Proper timing is crucial to winning duels in Hellish Quart.
Hellish Quart uses four gamepad buttons representing four attack angles, allowing for intuitive yet complex combat. Different button combinations unlock special attacks and combos, making mastering the controls crucial to winning duels. The characters use motion-captured fencing techniques and four gamepad buttons to deliver an authentic fencing experience.
Though still in Early Access, Hellish Quart already boasts an impressive variety of game modes to suit every type of player.
Whether you prefer a relaxed sparring session or a nail-biting survival run, Hellish Quart also offers something for everyone.
As a 3D fighting game, Kubold has gone above and beyond in creating an immersive experience. The 3D-scanned clothing and historically accurate environments are paired with a soundtrack that features live-instrument music. Composed by industry veterans who’ve worked on titles like The Witcher, the music perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere. Every fight feels like a scene from a period drama, complete with the clanging of swords and the tense silence before a decisive blow.
The character models are not just eye candy—they serve as a testament to Kubold’s dedication to authenticity. The character models are made with 3D scanning technology for ultimate realism. From intricate embroidery on a nobleman’s tunic to the scuffs on a soldier’s boots, the attention to detail is staggering. Hellish Quart is firmly rooted in historical accuracy.
Let’s be honest: Hellish Quart isn’t a pick-up-and-play game. Its steep learning curve may intimidate some, but that’s part of its charm. Mastering this game means understanding not just its mechanics but also, like in real-world fencing, the principles of timing and distance.
At first, you might feel like we're rubbish at the game, but with practice, you'll master the art of the sword. For players willing to invest the time, the payoff is immense. Few gaming experiences are as satisfying as landing a perfect riposte after a tense exchange.
Kubold’s commitment to player feedback is one of Hellish Quart’s standout features. Updates are frequent, and suggestions from the Steam Community often find their way into the game. Features suggested by the community are often implemented and later corrected based on player feedback.
If you’re interested in contributing, the game’s forums and Discord server are buzzing with discussions about potential updates and features.
Kubold’s approach to Early Access is refreshingly transparent. With the base game finished, the developers are focusing on polishing and adding new content. As of now, the game features 15 playable characters and 21 stunning arenas. The team has exceeded their original goals, with plans to expand the roster to 24 characters and add more arenas, game modes, and a fully-fledged cinematic campaign.
Kubold wants the community to be involved in shaping the final product. Player feedback has already led to numerous updates, including new features like FPP (First-Person Perspective) mode and a Right of Way fencing mode. This collaborative approach ensures that Hellish Quart continues to evolve.
The game’s pricing strategy also reflects its evolving nature. While affordable in its current state, Kubold plans to increase the price upon full release, aligning it with the expanded content and polished mechanics.
As Hellish Quart edges closer to full release, here’s what’s on the horizon:
If you’re a fan of historical accuracy, realistic sword fighting, or just love a good indie game with heart, Hellish Quart is a must-try. Its blend of physics-based sword combat, rich historical detail, and community-driven development sets it apart from anything else in the genre.
If you enjoyed titles like Bushido Blade, you'll find Hellish Quart offers a similar focus on realistic sword dueling. While you might believe it's easier to master than it looks, Hellish Quart demands dedication and skill.
Sure, it’s still rough around the edges, but that’s part of the charm. Whether you’re a hardcore HEMA enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique gaming experience, Hellish Quart is worth every penny.
So grab your controller (or your VR headset) and step into the shoes of a 17th-century duelist. With its realistic physics and historical accuracy, Hellish Quart provides the ultimate experience. Just remember: one wrong move, and it’s game over. If you're a fan of sword-fighting games, you owe it to yourself to play this game.
