SEATTLE — Jan. 27, 2026 — THE SPIRIT LIFT, the retro horror deckbuilder roguelike set in a haunted hotel during the 90’s, from developer prettysmart games, welcomes guests into its ghostly halls on PC via Steam today.
Build a starting deck by selecting a plucky team of three teen paranormal investigators from a pool of eight characters, then venture forth into a spooky, abandoned hotel. Each character alters the starting deck, affecting battle strategies and offering distinct story revelations depending on who joins the fray. Scour rooms across 13 floors for secrets, new gear and upgrades, then head to the elevator to ascend to the next ghastly level.
All manner of supernatural spectres, unnaturally animated objects, and menacing poltergeists roam the halls. Battle these eerie apparitions who will stop at nothing to impede progress, and reach the penthouse suite to challenge a powerful, charismatic final boss. Unlock additional starting cards per party member, and customize the initial loadout to pummel the foes that await on every floor.
Collect helpful items and weapons to aid in the final encounter, including firefighter axes, night-vision goggles and rollerblades. Engage in strategic card battles, defy death or try again. Visit the hotel’s mysteriously charming shopkeeper (who happens to be a wolf!) for new abilities to add to an evolving deck. Defeat ghastly fiends to gain experience, and choose strategic upgrades for a set of powerful cards.
Experiment with different card combinations, modifying the deck to individual playstyles and progression. Earn Spirit points to spend on customization options, and reap the rewards of every run. Along the way, uncover the lore hidden within the Library, participate in custom challenges, and defeat the multiple bosses that await! THE SPIRIT LIFT rewards death, offering endless replayability that respects player time.
“Our deck of 200+ cards features peculiar, retro items that offer a ton of advantages.” said Miko Charbonneau, Creative Director and Studio Lead at prettysmart games. “You can dish out damage with a tennis racket, stun enemies with a disposable camera, or heal the team with a literal adrenaline shot. You can also equip over 90 pieces of gear including mood rings and slap bracelets! We’re even more excited to see players find all the secrets we packed into the game. Horror references, mysterious evidence files, easter eggs, hidden story paths, and the real reason why these unlucky teens are doomed to repeat their graduation night over and over.”
THE SPIRIT LIFT is available on PC via Steam today for $19.99 USD, with a 10% discount. For more information on THE SPIRIT LIFT, visit prettysmart games’ official website, check out the developer’s YouTube and Twitch, and follow the team on BlueSky.
About prettysmart games
prettysmart games is an indie game developer that collectively prioritizes mental health and team happiness alongside their dedication to providing creative interactivity to players. They usher in newcomers into the gaming space and help them expand their skillset while priding themselves on an absolute lack of AI-driven development. From PC games to mobile apps and even a retro MUD, the team continues to share their passion for unique gaming experiences in multiple formats, and even provide lessons learned as Skillshare courses to help aspiring devs break into the industry armed with insights from industry professionals.
For more information, visit the prettysmart games’ official website, check out the developer’s YouTube and Twitch, and follow the team on BlueSky.
