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The game Dunland: Survivors Story, developed by Kurlak Studio, transports players to a fantasy world overrun by monsters, where survival and prosperity are key. Clearly inspired by Vampire Survivors, the game promises an engaging story and challenging mechanics. To learn more about the creation process, we spoke with Maksim Kurtlatskov, founder of Kurlak Studio.

When discussing the inspiration behind the game and how they integrated elements from titles like Vampire Survivors while maintaining a unique identity, Kurtlatskov shared, "Ever since Vampire Survivors was released 2.5 years ago, we were captivated by its simplicity and engaging mechanics. This motivated us to create something with similar mechanics, especially the reverse bullet-hell aspect. However, the goal was always to bring something unique, incorporating elements of survival, ecosystem interaction, and a narrative focused on environmental balance."

Regarding the core mechanics, Kurtlatskov explained that players control a group of characters on an island, where they must establish a settlement, gather resources, and interact with a living ecosystem. "Plants and animals act independently, and players' actions, such as deforestation and hunting, can disrupt the natural balance, leading to the emergence of 'corruption zones' that must be faced to restore harmony. Through this dynamic, we aim to highlight the importance of caring for nature and its delicate balance."

During development, the team faced several challenges. Kurtlatskov mentioned that, as a small team with limited resources, many skills were acquired along the way. "To overcome these challenges, we relied on AI tools to assist in various aspects of development, keeping the project as a true passion project."

Although the game doesn't yet have a set release date, expectations are high. Kurtlatskov revealed that the main goal is to achieve significant sales, and after the launch, they plan to continue expanding the game with new content, including a cooperative mode that will be offered as a subscription. "This will allow players to explore new ways to play, ensuring ongoing support and regular updates."