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| SKALD: Against the Black Priory will remain free for 24 hours. Pictured: an edited artwork from the game. |
The Epic Games Store's beloved tradition of handing out free games continues to be a major holiday highlight, and their latest surprise is a deep-cut treat for RPG enthusiasts. For the final giveaway of 2025, Epic has unlocked SKALD: Against the Black Priory, a well-reviewed indie title that masterfully channels the spirit of 1980s computer role-playing games.
This marks the twelfth mystery free game in Epic's ongoing Christmas event, and it's a perfect pick for players craving classic, choice-driven adventure. The game is available to claim at no cost right now, but you’ll need to move quickly.
Here’s the crucial timing: SKALD: Against the Black Priory is free on the Epic Games Store until December 29, 2025, at 16:00 UTC. At that moment, the offer expires and the thirteenth (and final) mystery game of the season will be unveiled.
What is SKALD: Against the Black Priory?
Developed by High North Studios and originally released in 2024, SKALD is a deliberate and loving homage to foundational RPGs like Ultima. It doesn’t just mimic the past; it fully embraces it with authentic C64-inspired pixel art and a dark, atmospheric soundtrack that together create a uniquely gritty and immersive world.
The game’s narrative is a major strength. Players navigate a grim, unforgiving fantasy world where choices have significant consequences, leading to multiple paths and high replayability. The story is deepened through environmental clues and discoverable journals, rewarding thorough exploration.
Praised for Strategic, Turn-Based Combat
Beyond its story, SKALD earns its "Very Positive" reputation with solid, tactical combat. It features distinct character classes and a party system that rewards smart strategy without burying players in excessive complexity. It’s a satisfying challenge that feels true to its old-school inspirations.
A Few Considerations for Modern Players
The commitment to a retro aesthetic does come with some trade-offs noted by players. The retro-styled user interface can feel clunky to navigate at times, and the game is heavily reliant on text, which may not suit everyone. Some reviews also point out that the turn-based combat, while fun, can occasionally feel simplistic due to predictable enemy AI.
A Standout Value in an Already Free Package
Despite these minor quirks, the critical and player consensus is overwhelmingly positive. On Steam, SKALD boasts a "Very Positive" rating from over 2,600 reviews, with 93% of them positive. Normally priced at $14.99, this free giveaway represents fantastic value.
For those who prefer gamepad to keyboard, SKALD offers full controller support, making it a great couch-play title. Pair it with a versatile controller like the GameSir Super Nova (currently $49.99 on Amazon) for a seamless experience.
Epic's choice of SKALD: Against the Black Priory underscores their strategy of offering not just popular titles, but critically-praised gems that players might have overlooked. It’s a win for preservation, a win for indie developers, and a huge win for gamers building their libraries. Don't let this one slip away before the clock runs out tomorrow.