Indie Showcase - Warding Witches
Game Review
Warding Witches
Nico HaberkornVerdict
Warding Witches impresses with a unique setting, enjoyable gameplay, and a fair yet challenging difficulty curve that stays rewarding over time. Its tougher multiplayer serves as a meaningful extra challenge without diminishing the highly positive overall experience.
Two gameplay videos were provided to us — I even appear in the multiplayer footage myself.
Warding Witches Multiplayer Gameplay @ Polaris 2026
Source: Sonorode
Gameplay from the first level of Warding Witches
Source: Sonorode
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Interview
How did the original idea for Warding Witches come about?
The idea grew out of two passions: shoot ’em ups and video game music. Since Paul had long wanted to compose a soundtrack for a bullet hell game, he ultimately decided to develop the fitting game himself.
What is it like developing a full game as a solo developer?
Through his work as a game composer, he already had insight into development processes and was able to draw support from his network. That made the leap challenging, but not entirely into the unknown.
What makes Warding Witches stand out within the genre?
The game takes inspiration from classic bullet hell titles while aiming to make the genre more approachable. At the same time, it introduces fresh ideas such as alternative defensive mechanics instead of traditional “bombs.”
How were the playable characters created?
The characters are built around different defensive abilities, such as shields or time-slowing mechanics. Their names and designs were also chosen deliberately, following thematic concepts like alliteration.
What role do conventions and events play in development?
Events are extremely important for feedback, networking, and validating ideas. At the same time, they come with challenges, as a stable build is essential and unexpected issues can always arise.
What features are currently in development?
Planned additions include new stages, multiplayer features, and plenty of unlockable content, including challenges, modes, and story elements.
What have been the biggest challenges during development?
Technical aspects such as handling performance with large numbers of projectiles, as well as managing both art and coding as a solo developer, have been major hurdles.
How would you describe Warding Witches in one sentence?
An approachable bullet hell shooter that combines classic action with modern ideas.