Realm Studios has officially launched the first open playtest for its anime-style blockchain RPG, Variance, running from July 31 to August 3 on the Somnia network.
The event introduces a new game mode called Endless Challenge, various leaderboard rewards, and opportunities to earn in-game Lootboxes and Golden Tickets. Players can join for free via the game’s official website and play directly in their browser.
A Roguelike Adventure on Blockchain
Variance is a free-to-play 2D roguelike RPG with fast-paced combat and dungeon exploration. The game lets players upgrade heroes, unlock new powers, and experience seasonal content. Built on the Somnia blockchain, every in-game action is recorded on-chain, ensuring security and enabling players to truly own and trade their digital items.
The game takes inspiration from popular titles like Dead Cells and Enter the Gungeon, and it’s currently available on PC browsers. Future versions are planned for Steam, the Epic Games Store, and mobile platforms like Android and iOS.
New Endless Challenge Mode
The highlight of this playtest is the introduction of Endless Challenge mode. In this mode, players face continuous waves of enemies and must survive as long as possible while earning new powers after each wave. While this mode offers intense action and high replay value, scores from Endless Challenge will not count toward the leaderboard during this playtest phase.
To unlock the Endless mode, players can either progress through the main game or find a hidden switch on the Sanctuary map. This adds a layer of exploration to the experience and rewards curious players with early access to the new mode.
Compete and Earn Rewards
Players can climb the main mode’s leaderboard to win rewards. The top 100 players will receive Lootboxes filled with in-game items, and the top 3 will also win Golden Tickets. These tickets provide free and guaranteed access to the game’s future PFP NFT mint. All participants who play during the event will receive at least one Lootbox, ensuring everyone earns something.
In addition to performance-based rewards, players can join giveaways on the official Discord server by completing social tasks and collecting points. These points can be used to enter raffles or redeemed directly for rewards like Golden Tickets.
Free to Join, Easy to Run
Anyone can join the open playtest by signing in on the Variance website using an email or social login like Google or Discord. The game is optimized for low-end machines and features smooth gameplay with hand-drawn animations and fluid side-scrolling combat.