Overview
Cheat Koi-Koi, developed and published by the indie studio 夜更堂 (Yofukedo), is a single-player roguelite that puts a sly twist on the classic Japanese card game hanafuda. Released on October 20, 2026, this paid Steam title blends casual card play with strategy and a dash of deception.
The premise is simple: your opponents cheat, so you cheat too. You sit across from the shady regulars of a nighttime gambling den, reading their tells, choosing your tricks, and trying to outwit them at every turn.
Highlights
- Roguelite structure: Each run takes you deeper into the den, facing increasingly cunning opponents, with permadeath raising the stakes.
- Core hanafuda mechanics: Match cards from the same month to build scoring combinations called yaku. You can bank your points immediately or call "koi-koi" to push for a stronger hand—but if your opponent forms a yaku first, you lose everything from that round.
- Cheating mechanics: The game lets you peek at hidden cards or swap cards in your hand, giving you a tactical edge—if you can get away with it.
- Single-player focus: No multiplayer, just you versus the AI in a tense, turn-based battle of wits.
- Language support: Available in English and Japanese, with a family-sharing option on Steam.
Who It's For
If you enjoy card battlers, turn-based strategy, or roguelites with a strong risk-reward loop, Cheat Koi-Koi is worth a look. It's also a great entry point for anyone curious about hanafuda but who wants a more accessible, story-driven package.
The casual presentation and short rounds make it easy to pick up, while the strategic depth and cheating mechanics keep things interesting for veterans. Just be ready to embrace your inner cheat.
Game Info
- Genre: Casual, Indie, Strategy
- Developer/Publisher: 夜更堂 (Yofukedo)
- Release Date: October 20, 2026
- Platform: PC (Steam)
- Modes: Single-player
- Languages: English, Japanese
- Steam Features: Family Sharing
For the latest pricing and availability, check the Steam store page.





