Alchemy deckbuilder Corpus et Spiritus launches with day-one Linux support

Corpus et Spiritus, a roguelite alchemy deckbuilder from Arpentor Studio and publisher Firesquid, launched on Steam with native Linux support alongside Windows. The game distinguishes itself from titles like Slay the Spire and Balatro through a crafting-focused loop where players transmute rare metals into cards and charms at a workbench, with seven card categories tied to body, mind, and soul mechanics. A central risk-reward system involves a demonic pact that grants power at the cost of life force, with a Homunculus creature offering boons that drain health.

The base game is priced at $12.49 USD with a 25% launch discount, and a Supporter Edition adds soundtrack, concept art, wallpapers, and exclusive card skins. The developer's prior deckbuilding experience includes Dawnmaker. Notably, no Steam Deck verification status or Proton compatibility testing has been reported at release.

Linux release details and Steam Deck status

• Native Linux support: The game ships with a native Linux build available at launch alongside Windows, not relying on Proton or Wine compatibility layers.
• Steam Deck verification: No Steam Deck compatibility status has been confirmed by the developer or Valve at release, leaving Proton performance and controller integration untested for handheld Linux gaming.
• Genre positioning: The game targets the deckbuilder roguelite market occupied by Slay the Spire and Balatro, with crafting mechanics drawn from Ways of Alchemy as a differentiator.
• Pricing structure: Base game launches at $12.49 USD / £10.57 / €12.49 with 25% discount, with a Supporter Edition bundling cosmetic DLC and media extras.

Why it matters

Day-one Linux releases from smaller studios like Arpentor Studio continue to normalize native Linux builds as a standard publishing practice, reducing reliance on Proton for indie titles. The lack of Steam Deck verification at launch highlights an ongoing gap where native Linux games still require explicit Valve testing to assure handheld compatibility, potentially affecting discoverability for the growing Steam Deck user base.