Overview

Primus plunges players into the brutal world of Roman gladiatorial combat, blending deep RPG mechanics with strategic management. As the owner of a Ludus, or gladiator school, you'll recruit, train, and command fighters through perilous arena circuits. The ultimate goal? To ascend the ranks and claim the coveted title of Primus.

Inspired by the challenging gameplay of Darkest Dungeon, Primus emphasizes lasting consequences and formation-based combat. Each decision carries weight, from choosing your faction and Head of House to managing your fighters' training and well-being.

The game also incorporates crowd-driven battles and strategic faction choices, adding layers of depth to the core experience.

Highlights

  • Faction and Leadership Synergy: Choose from nine distinct factions, each offering unique bonuses, and select a Head of House with specific traits to create a powerful synergy that defines your gladiator school's playstyle.
  • Deep Management and Combat: Build and manage your Ludus, train your gladiators, and lead them in tactical, formation-based combat with lasting consequences.
  • Crowd-Driven Arena Battles: Experience the thrill of arena combat where the crowd's influence can sway the tide of battle, adding an unpredictable element to your expeditions.

Who It's For

This game is for players who enjoy challenging RPGs with deep strategic elements and management sim aspects. Fans of games like Darkest Dungeon, tactical RPGs, and those who appreciate a brutal, unforgiving setting will find a lot to love in Primus.

Game Info

Primus is a single-player RPG developed by Ethan Clarke and published by Stone & Steel. It features turn-based strategy, party-based RPG elements, and dungeon crawler mechanics. The game supports Steam Achievements and offers adjustable difficulty settings. Content includes combat violence and minor blood effects. The game was released on August 12, 2026.