GET YOUR BEARINGS
About Dead Weight
Dead Weight is a steampunk roguelite adventure where you command a flying ship, gather fuel, and recruit a crew to traverse a sky‑filled world. The game blends turn‑based combat with exploration of dangerous islands and ancient ruins.
Players progress by upgrading their ship, training crew members, and unlocking skills across four distinct characters. The ever‑changing world features powerful Ancient Gods that shape the narrative and challenge your strategic choices.
01 / THE GUIDE
Turn‑Based Combat
Combat takes place on a small battlefield where each decision matters. Players must think ahead to survive against mighty creatures that have awakened from slumber.
The system encourages careful planning, as the limited space means positioning and timing are crucial for victory.
- Consider the order of actions to maximize each turn’s impact.
- Observe enemy patterns early to anticipate their moves.
02 / THE GUIDE
Ship Upgrades
Your ship serves as the base for travel and combat preparation. Upgrading it is part of the progression loop as you stock up on fuel and prepare for journeys.
Enhancements are part of the progression loop, letting you become stronger as you explore the world.
- Prioritize upgrades that match your preferred playstyle.
- Balance fuel capacity with other improvements for efficient travel.

03 / THE GUIDE
Crew and Skills
Hiring a crew and training them unlocks an extensive skill tree. Each of the four characters offers unique gameplay options.
Combining equipment and abilities lets you craft builds that fit your strategy.
- Experiment with different crew combinations to discover synergies.
- Focus on skill paths that complement your ship’s strengths.
04 / THE GUIDE
World Exploration
Travel across the skies on your swift ship to locate ancient ruins and uncharted islands scattered throughout the steampunk world.
Each location presents its own hazards, encouraging careful preparation before landing.
- Map out island locations before setting sail to plan resource use.
- Keep an eye on fuel levels to avoid being stranded.
05 / THE GUIDE
Ancient Gods
Mighty creatures known as Ancient Gods have risen from eternal slumber, reshaping the world and presenting formidable challenges.
Players can choose to confront them directly or seek forbidden knowledge they guard.
- Weigh the risks of direct confrontation against the potential rewards of knowledge.
- Observe how the world changes after each encounter with a god.





COMMUNITY
Player discussion