--- title: "This async autobattler demo mixes Backpack Battles and FTL — an absolute must-try" description: "A new async autobattler demo blends Backpack Battles with FTL: roguelike runs, permanent death, ship management and a free Steam demo. Why try it now. 5 min read." url: https://after-strategy.com/en/async-autobattler-demo-mixes-backpack-battles-and-ftl-must-try/ lang: en published: 2025-09-26 author: "Simon Dougnac" author_url: https://after-strategy.com/en/auteur/simon/ categories: [rts] translations: fr: https://after-strategy.com/fr/ce-demo-dautobattler-asynchrone-melange-backpack-battles-et-ftl-a-tester-absolument/ es: https://after-strategy.com/es/demo-autobattler-asincrono-backpack-battles-ftl-imprescindible/ publisher: "After Strategy" --- # This async autobattler demo mixes Backpack Battles and FTL — an absolute must-try > A new async autobattler demo blends Backpack Battles with FTL: roguelike runs, permanent death, ship management and a free Steam demo. Why try it now. 5 min read. ## This async autobattler demo mixes Backpack Battles and FTL — an absolute must-try ### An explosive mix of strategy and roguelike If you love autobattlers but you are tired of the same repetitive mechanics, this demo is going to make you buzz. Picture a mix between the tactical depth of Backpack Battles and the thrilling space adventure of FTL, all in async mode so you can play at your own pace. That is exactly what this little gem in development offers, and the demo is already available to give you a taste. ### An autobattler that breaks the mold We all know autobattlers: you place your units, watch the fight unfold, and adjust your strategy between rounds. But here, the developers decided to shake everything up. No forced real-time combat. The async system lets you prepare your squad, launch the fight, and come back later to see the results. Perfect for those who want to play without pressure or who have a busy schedule. But that is not all. The game also includes roguelike elements, like in FTL. Every run is unique, with random events, choices that impact your progress, and permanent death that forces you to rethink your strategy with every new attempt. You will have to manage your resources, upgrade your ship (yes, there is a ship!), and make tough choices to survive. ### Gameplay reminiscent of Backpack Battles, but deeper If you have already played Backpack Battles, you will recognize that feeling of having to optimize every detail. Here, inventory management and your units' skills are crucial. Every item you pick up can change the game, and you have to know what to keep and what to sacrifice. Battles are not won just with powerful units, but with careful preparation. The skill and equipment system is particularly well thought out. You can combine items to create devastating synergies, or go for more defensive builds if you prefer playing it safe. And like in any good roguelike, every run lets you unlock new elements for your next attempts. ### An FTL atmosphere that makes you want to explore The game's universe is clearly inspired by FTL, with a retro sci-fi touch that is a real pleasure. You play a captain who must cross hostile sectors, manage your crew, and face unpredictable events. Random encounters add a layer of narrative that makes every run unique. You might run into a merchant offering rare equipment, or a trap that forces you to fight at a disadvantage. These moments of tension recall the best memories of FTL, where every decision counts. And like in the game from Subset Games, the difficulty is well judged: punishing enough to challenge you, but fair enough that you always want to try again. ### A demo that already makes you want more The current demo lets you test the basics of the gameplay, and frankly, it is already very promising. You can explore a few sectors, recruit units, and face enemies with varied mechanics. The developers clearly focused on replayability, with several possible builds and events that change every run. Graphically, the game has a clean but effective style, with smooth animations and a clear interface. Even in demo version, everything is well polished, and you can feel the team worked on accessibility. Tutorials are well integrated, and you quickly understand the mechanics without feeling overwhelmed. ### Why you should try it now? First, because it is free. Then, because player feedback will help the developers polish the game before its official release. And finally, because it is simply an autobattler like few others: deep, strategic, and with a real identity. If you love games that mix strategy, management and a bit of luck, this demo is for you. And even if you are not a die-hard autobattler fan, the roguelike aspect and the FTL atmosphere might just change your mind. ### How to play it? The demo is available on the official platform (Steam demo). Just download it, start a run, and let yourself be carried away by the adventure. The developers are very active on social media, so do not hesitate to give them your feedback after playing. ### Our verdict: a must-try for strategy fans This demo proves there is still room for innovation in the autobattler genre. By mixing Backpack Battles' mechanics and the spirit of FTL, the developers have created something truly unique. The async system is a real plus, and the replayability is there. If you are looking for a game that will make you think, optimize, and start over again and again, do not miss this demo. And if you want to follow the project's evolution, keep an eye on official announcements — because this game clearly has the potential to become a must-play. So, ready to embark on a strategic adventure like no other? The demo is waiting for you! ## See also - The great autobattler inspired by Heroes of Might and Magic - [All RTS articles](https://after-strategy.com/en/categorie/rts/) ## Sources - [Official Backpack Battles Steam page](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2427700/Backpack_Battles/) - [Official FTL: Faster Than Light Steam page](https://store.steampowered.com/app/212680/FTL_Faster_Than_Light/) ## Sources - - Source : [This async autobattler demo mixes Backpack Battles and FTL — an absolute must-try](https://after-strategy.com/en/async-autobattler-demo-mixes-backpack-battles-and-ftl-must-try/) — After Strategy