An action-RPG developed by the newly-announced indie studio Cold Symmetry is coming later this year, produced by a core team of just 15 people. Mortal Shell describes itself as "built upon the ruthless traditions of the soulslike genre", featuring "exquisitely crafted worlds, fearsome combat, and menacing foes."

The developer behind the game is reportedly made up of AAA veterans "with a strong passion for making games of their own". Here's what the studio's three co-founders had to say in a statement:

"To finally announce Mortal Shell is one of the most exciting and terrifying experiences we've had in our lifetimes. The last two years have been a time of non-stop growth, full of shocking revelations of sheer complexity that goes into a video game that you, yourself, would really enjoy playing."

You can find out more information on Mortal Shell over at its official website, including details on various features such as its "non-linear campaign" and "deep upgrade paths". It's currently scheduled for a Q3 2020 release on Xbox One, although players can also sign up for a limited closed beta on the official website (seemingly via Discord).

The game's setting and plot is described as the following:

"Awakening as an empty vessel, you will enter into a shattered and twisted world where the remains of humanity wither and rot. Implored to do the bidding of the mysterious “Dark Father”, you must traverse this tattered landscape and track down hidden sanctums of devout followers. There, in Mortal Shell’s most hallowed grounds, you must overcome formidable foes and harvest the sacred glands. You won’t be truly alone when the dead litter your path: Scattered across this land are the remnant anima of lost warriors who can be inhabited to gain their unique abilities and knowledge of weapons. The Dark Father is desperate for you to complete your task — but to what end?"

Will you be keeping an eye on Mortal Shell? Let us know what you think of the trailer in the comments.

[source youtu.be, via uk.ign.com, mortalshell.com]