Montabi, a roguelike deck-building game from developer Mankibo and publisher Akupara Games, will be released on August 6, 2026. The game combines monster taming, deck-building, creature evolution, and tactical battles on a 3×3 grid.
In Montabi, players embark on a mission to save the city by taming various creatures called Montabi. Each Montabi has its own skills and card abilities, so your team selection will influence your strategy in every run.
Montabi Combines Monster Taming and Deckbuilding
Montabi uses a deck-building system tied to the creatures players tame. Each Montabi has a unique skill set, allowing players to experiment with many different combinations of team synergy.
In addition to choosing a Montabi, players can also collect equipment and charms. These elements help players determine the direction of their build throughout the game.
Because it uses a roguelike format, each run is designed to offer different choices. Players can try out new teams, pick different cards, and find synergies that suit their playstyle.
Montabi Introduces Evolution, Trainers, and a 3×3 Battle Grid
One of Montabi’s key features is its evolution system. Trained Montabi can become stronger, unlock new moves, and evolve into higher forms. Evolution also grants new card abilities, allowing players’ tactical options to expand throughout the run.
The Montabi battle system uses a 3×3 grid. Players must position their Montabi and trainer when facing enemies. Unit positioning is a key part of strategy, in addition to card selection.
The trainer also plays a major role in battle. If the trainer is defeated, the run ends. Therefore, players need to protect the trainer while managing their team’s offense and defense.
Players can choose trainers with different playstyles. Some trainers focus on positioning, others are better suited for direct combat, and still others can provide Montabi with buffs through food.
Key Features
This feature highlights the game's focus on build variety, team synergy, and replayability.
- Build Your Deck by Taming
Players build their decks by taming Montabi. Each Montabi has a unique skill that unlocks a wide range of strategic combinations. - Evolve, Learn New Skills
Montabi can be trained, grow stronger, learn new moves, and evolve to unlock additional card abilities. - Outsmart Your Opponents
Battles take place on a 3×3 grid. Players need to position their units, choose the right cards, and keep their trainer from being defeated. - Choose Your Trainer
Each trainer has a different playstyle. The choice of trainer will affect how players strategize in each run. - Try Every Montabi
Montabi has 22 starter decks to choose from. Each evolutionary line has a unique deck, with a total of more than 500 cards available.
Available for PC and Consoles
Montabi will be available for PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG on August 6, 2026. The game will also be available on several console platforms, namely Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Play Anywhere.
At launch, Montabi will also support 9 languages. The list of available languages includes English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Indonesian.
Indonesian language support is a key feature for local players, especially since deck-building games contain a lot of text for card effects, skills, items, and battle information.
Deluxe Bundle Includes a Digital Artbook and Original Soundtrack
Along with the launch, Montabi will also offer a Deluxe Bundle. This bundle includes a digital artbook with over 150 pages and an original soundtrack with 22 tracks.
Montabi’s illustrations, animations, and music were created by the artists and composers involved in the game’s development. This Digital Artbook and Original Soundtrack are intended for players who want to explore Montabi’s creative process or show additional support for the team.
Post-Launch Update
The developers also discussed feedback from the July Community Playtest. Some quality-of-life improvements could not be included in Version 1.0 due to the imminent launch date.
After launch, the team plans to continue listening to player feedback. Update priorities will be tailored to the community’s needs, including bug fixes, balancing adjustments, and quality-of-life updates.
As part of their long-term plans, the developers also hope to add new content if the game performs well. The content mentioned includes the possibility of new Montabi, Trainers, Elites, Bosses, Charms, Equipment, and DLC.
Montabi is being developed as an indie game with a focus on strategy, build variety, and replayability. The game will be available starting August 6, 2026.
Release Date Announcement
Your New Favorite Creature Collector Is Coming to Switch and Xbox!
Original Soundtrack
