Pyre features a local versus multiplayer mode, allowing two players to compete against each other in the Rites. The main story is single-player.

A typical playthrough of Pyre can take around 10-15 hours, but its branching narrative and high replayability mean you can spend much more time exploring different paths.

Pyre offers a customizable difficulty, allowing players to adjust the challenge of the Rites. The combat system can take some getting used to, but it's fair and rewarding.

Pyre

In short: Pyre is a sports game released in 2017 by Supergiant Games, available on PC and PlayStation. Our score: 8.5/10 (highly recommended).

A party-based RPG with a unique sports-like combat system. Lead a band of exiles in a series of mystical competitions to earn their freedom and uncover the mysteries of the Downside.

Pyre is a unique and captivating party-based RPG developed by Supergiant Games, known for their critically acclaimed titles like Bastion and Hades. Released in 2017, Pyre distinguishes itself with an innovative take on combat, blending traditional RPG elements with a fast-paced, sports-like system. Players embark on a journey through the mystical purgatory known as the Downside, guiding a troupe of exiles in a series of ancient rites, or 'Rites,' with the ultimate goal of achieving freedom and returning to the Commonwealth. The game's narrative is rich and engaging, unfolding through beautifully illustrated visual novel segments and impactful player choices. The core gameplay revolves around the Rites, which are exhilarating 3-on-3 competitions where teams attempt to extinguish their opponent's pyre by carrying an orb into it. Each character possesses unique abilities, movement speeds, and aura sizes, adding a strategic layer to team composition and execution. Between Rites, players navigate the Downside in their celestial wagon, making decisions that affect their party members' loyalty, skills, and the unfolding story. These decisions have real consequences, influencing who among the exiles gets a chance at freedom and altering the narrative path. Beyond its innovative combat, Pyre shines with its distinctive art style, evocative soundtrack, and deeply nuanced characters. The hand-painted visuals create a vibrant and atmospheric world, while Darren Korb's musical score mast…

Game details

Developer: Supergiant Games
Publisher: Supergiant Games
Release year: 2017
Platforms: PC, PlayStation
Category: sports

Our review

Pyre is another masterpiece from Supergiant Games, offering a truly unique blend of RPG mechanics and sports-like combat. The narrative is deeply engaging, with memorable characters and impactful choices that shape the story. The Rites are intense and strategic, demanding quick thinking and good teamwork. While the art style and music are exceptional, some players might find the combat system takes a bit to truly click. However, for those who embrace its distinctiveness, Pyre delivers a profound and rewarding experience that stands out in the RPG landscape.

Pros

Innovative combat system
Rich, branching narrative
Stunning art style and music
Memorable characters
High replayability

Cons

Combat can be challenging to grasp initially
Some might prefer more traditional RPG combat

FAQ

Is Pyre multiplayer?: Pyre features a local versus multiplayer mode, allowing two players to compete against each other in the Rites. The main story is single-player.
How long is Pyre?: A typical playthrough of Pyre can take around 10-15 hours, but its branching narrative and high replayability mean you can spend much more time exploring different paths.
Is Pyre difficult?: Pyre offers a customizable difficulty, allowing players to adjust the challenge of the Rites. The combat system can take some getting used to, but it's fair and rewarding.

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Last updated: 03/04/2026