Cozy Crossword Puzzle Adventure Rita to Launch in Q1 2026; Demo Available Next Month

XPN Network
5 hours ago
2 min read

Melbourne, Victoria - August 26, 2025 | Melbourne-based SporkTank have announced their upcoming crossword puzzle adventure Rita is launching on Steam in Q1 2026, with a demo coming next month on September 18.

Rita is a cozy adventure where a little chicklet solves word-based puzzles to transform the world around her. Follow her story across generations, meet her grandchicklet, and be a part of her legacy.

SporkTank debuted Rita back in October 2024 at PAX Aus in the PAX Aus Indie Showcase. The game was very well received by attendees, with plenty of positive comments regarding the word-based puzzles and the titular character herself.

"When I started Rita back in 2023, I intended it as an homage to my grandmother and the relationship we shared." Said solo developer Martin Stradling. "I didn’t think too much about making a story-rich game; I was focused on the novel puzzle mechanics. But after being part of the 2024 PAX Aus Indie Showcase and seeing players’ reactions, it was clear the grandparent/grandchild relationship resonated with them. So here we are, late 2025, getting ready to launch a cosy, story-rich word-puzzle adventure! I truly hope that players enjoy the game as much as I have enjoyed developing it and that they can begin to experience the story behind Rita."

Rita is launching on PC (via Steam) in Q1 2026, with a demo coming next month on September 18. More updates will be shared leading up to launch on the SporkTank's X, Bluesky, TikTok and Instagram accounts, and you can chat with the developer by joining their Discord.

Rita is one smart chicklet, with a knack for solving crosswords and other word puzzles. As she explores the delightful world around her, she’ll collect letters to fill out newspaper pages which progresses and shapes her legacy.

From hopping through light platforming challenges to interacting with endearing characters, Rita's world is full of surprises, warmth, and plenty of a-ha moments. Guide her to grandparenthood, meet her grandchicklet, and learn about the loving bond they shared.

Engaging Word-Based Puzzles

Solve classic and creative word puzzles, including crosswords, word searches, rebus, anagrams, and more. Use letters Rita finds in the world in order to progress her story.

A Cozy World to Explore

Begin Rita’s adventure in the picturesque town of Aspendale in 1933, filled with secrets, collectables, and quirky characters. Light platforming segments add a touch of adventure, but nothing a little chicklet can’t handle!

Light Metroidvania Mechanics

As Rita solves puzzles, her clever solutions will bring the world to life, transforming the environment in meaningful ways. Watch as ramps appear, bridges repair themselves, trains manifest, time passes, and palm trees grow, revealing exciting new areas just waiting to be explored!