The independent Norwegian studio Filiokus announced Talystro, a roguelite deckbuilder that proposes an unusual approach by turning mathematics into the main combat tool. Inspired by genre references such as Slay the Spire and Balatro the game combines cards dice and creative arithmetic placing players in the role of the unlikely Math Mouse in a fight against the villain Necrodicer and an army of corrupted numbers brought to life.

The combat structure moves away from the traditional logic of gradually reducing health points. Instead the objective is to reach the exact same value as the enemy to defeat it instantly. Each card presents unfinished calculations variables and modifiers while dice rolls dynamically change the possibilities each turn requiring precise reasoning and constant adaptation.

Success depends on understanding the order of operations reading shifting probabilities and making strategic decisions as each encounter unfolds. This foundation supports a skill focused roguelite experience where smart resource management and creative problem solving define progress in every run.

The progression system offers depth by allowing players to upgrade and enchant cards and dice unlock new content through meta progression and refine the starting deck. The journey spans three distinct acts each culminating in a unique boss confrontation that tests mastery of the presented mechanics.

“Talystro is built on our belief that mathematics is fundamentally creative,” said founders of Filiokus studio Martin Lothe Sæterdal and Gjermund Mørkved Bohne. “Games are works of art powered by math and with Talystro we wanted to bring that connection to the forefront. By combining probability driven systems with strategic arithmetic we are inviting players to experiment adapt and discover the beauty of problem solving through play.”

Visually the game stands out with a style inspired by 1920s illustration and animation featuring hand drawn frame by frame attack animations that celebrate craftsmanship and artistic expression. Talystro also emphasizes accessibility by removing time based input requirements and keeping a static camera during gameplay ensuring a thoughtful experience for players with different needs.