Shroom and Gloom entered Steam Early Access on September 10, 2026. Team Lazerbeam's first-person roguelike separates combat and exploration into two decks, so choosing a card matters both during a fight and on the route between encounters. That distinction is the main reason to look beyond its unusual mushroom setting.
What the two decks change
Combat cards handle attacks, healing and other effects. Exploration cards shape the quieter stretches between battles, including opportunities to find cards or improve equipment. The official description also emphasizes growing and modifying individual cards rather than treating every starting card as something to discard. TheSixthAxis's Early Access assessment highlights this split and the focus on recovering health instead of relying on conventional blocking.
For players who enjoy learning systems through repeated attempts, those mechanics offer a clear point of interest. However, the same independent assessment describes limited persistent progression: unlocking options is not the same as steadily increasing your starting strength. Anyone who mainly enjoys a roguelike because each failed run buys easier future attempts should examine that difference carefully.
What remains unfinished
The Steam page lists two playable pathways and describes plans for another pathway, more character classes and additional quests during Early Access. The developer estimates twelve to twenty-four months of Early Access. That is a development estimate, not a promised date for a finished release.
Consider the current version if the two-deck structure itself interests you and you are comfortable with a game still in development. Wait if you want the planned content delivered before buying. These are source-based distinctions, not claims of our own playtime or a BestOfGames review score.
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Sources and methodology
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