Dead Pets Unleashed nearly became another casualty of the 2023 industry downturn, but Akupara Games has officially stepped in to bring the punk rock life-sim across the finish line. Originally developed by ex-Triple Topping (known for Welcome to Elk and Ynglet), the game was shelved when the studio shuttered. Now, with Akupara collaborating alongside members of the original team, Dead Pets Unleashed is back on track.
“The industry is in a place where everyone is looking for a reason to say no,” said Buddy Sola, Head of Marketing at Akupara Games. “We wanted to be the team that does the opposite — to take an interesting, unique project like Dead Pets, made by a clever team of talented artists, and bring it to fans.”
Living the Chaotic 30-Something Demon Life
Players take on the role of Gordy, a demon in her 30s juggling the demands of fronting her struggling punk band, Dead Pets, while scraping by in a shared apartment and navigating messy situationships.
Gameplay mixes slice-of-life dialogue, narrative choices, and a variety of minigames from diner dash shifts to rhythm challenges to hot dog-making, all layered with the existential grind of being in your 30s and still waiting for your “big break.”
New Void City, a vibrant urban sprawl full of friends and foes, sets the stage for Gordy’s misadventures. With branching outcomes, Gordy’s future and the fate of the Dead Pets depend entirely on the player’s choices.
Punk Rock Personality
Dead Pets Unleashed leans heavily into feminist themes, punk ethos, and irreverent humor. Its inspirations are clear: colorful, surreal, and character-driven worlds like BoJack Horseman and Tuca & Bertie.
The soundtrack is central to the experience, featuring an original punk rock EP created for the game, plus crossover indie game tracks. The mix ensures each rehearsal, gig, and moment in Gordy’s journey is steeped in loud, messy, and heartfelt energy.
Wishlist Now
A free demo for Dead Pets Unleashed is already available on Steam, letting players get a taste of Gordy’s world ahead of release. Between its feminist slice-of-life focus, punk aesthetic, and minigame-heavy structure, Akupara and the ex-Triple Topping crew are promising a one-of-a-kind experience.
