The announcement trailer from developer Jutsu Games gives a closer look at its medieval take on old-school action sandbox games, Rustler. Set to release later this year on PS4 and PS5, players can expect to steal horses, rob peasants, and commit more medieval shenanigans akin to the original top-down sandbox game, Grand Theft Auto. Recently, publisher Modus Games went into detail on what to expect on the PlayStation blog.
Referring to itself as "Grand Theft Horse", Rustler gives players control of Guy, a tough-as-nails peasant whose journey begins after awakening in a dazed and confused stupor. In addition to stealing horses, players can fight the local law enforcing knights and even scare townsfolk in disguise as Death. Ultimately, players are aiming to earn enough money to enter the Grand Tournament, win, and take the princess' hand in marriage.
Much like the game it's inspired by, Rustler gives players a variety of tools native to the Middle Ages, as well as some modern elements. Weapons such as crossbows, spears, swords and flails are available, as well as modern weapons like holy hand grenades. Additionally, the game features a mix of medieval and hip-hop music courtesy of a bard that players can hire in-game.
The game largely revolves around players going off the beaten path in pursuit of the medieval gangster lifestyle. That includes causing mayhem in villages and cities, partaking in Medieval Martial Arts (MMA) cage fights, horse races, and even taxi services. Even cooler is that the game features a wanted system, though of course, rather than being chased down in a car, the law follows Guy on horseback. Getting rid of the law is simple, however - players can just slide into a nearby Pimp-a-Horse to give their own a makeover.
Rustler was originally made available for PC via Steam Early Access since February 18 for $25. The trailer doesn't come with a release date, although Publisher Modus Games intends to release the game for PlayStation, as well as for the Switch and Xbox at some point later in 2021. In addition to fans of the original top-down GTA games, those fond of the more recent Chinatown Wars will find this game familiar in style and action.
For PC players more accustomed to the 3D generation of Grand Theft Auto, the nearly 8-year old game recently received a graphics mod that completely overhauls Los Santos and gives it a fresh new look.
Rustler is in Early Access on Steam and is releasing later this year for PS4 and PS5, with PC, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S versions still in development.