Sunderfolk is the debut title from Secret Door, and it wastes no time standing out. Built as a cooperative tabletop RPG that uses your phone as the controller and plays out on your TV, it’s an unusual concept. But the design works—surprisingly well. From setup to gameplay, it’s one of the smoothest co-op experiences available in 2025.

Instead of syncing traditional controllers, one player owns the game and others join by scanning a QR code with their phones via the free Sunderfolk Controller app. It works best on phones but also supports iPads. Whether local or online, the setup is quick. Steam users can stream the game over Discord or Remote Play, and console players can share screens through party chat. Progress is tied to the host, but the control-sharing system makes swapping in and out easy.

Gameplay and Combat in Sunderfolk

The campaign is divided into three acts, lasting around 20 to 30 hours total. There’s no grinding or filler. Instead, the structure encourages replayability through limited mission choices each act. All action is turn-based and plays out through a clean touchscreen interface. Players move, attack, and strategize entirely via their phones, which surprisingly enhances coordination.

Each player selects one of six classes—Arcanist, Bard, Berserker, Pyromancer, Ranger, or Rogue. Once chosen, that role stays with you for the entire run. Cards drive most actions, with upgrades unlocking between missions. The combat system supports creativity. Cards chain together, modifiers add randomness, and class synergy is essential. Trinkets and energized weapons give even more tactical options.

The open turn order lets anyone act at any time. Coordination Mode, where players can mark tiles and direct others, helps replicate that dry-erase board vibe you’d find in a real tabletop session. It adds strategy but never slows down the fun.

Co-op That Actually Feels Cooperative

Sunderfolk’s biggest strength is how it encourages teamwork. Whether you’re pushing enemies into traps, setting up a 10-damage flame breath, or rotating a beetle NPC across a battlefield, the game is full of memorable group moments.

There’s also a strong emphasis on accessibility. Difficulty settings can be adjusted mid-game. The touchscreen UI allows players to tap on enemies, cards, or effects for instant info. While experienced players can dive deep into class builds and combat layers, newer players won’t be overwhelmed.

The storytelling isn’t the main draw—it’s basic fantasy fare. But small flourishes like naming NPCs or shops create shared in-jokes. It’s how you end up with a beetle called Nacho Libre or a store named Walmart. These moments reinforce the feeling that you’re crafting the experience together.

Is Sunderfolk Worth Your Time?

If you’re looking for a laid-back RPG you can play on the couch or over Discord, Sunderfolk hits the mark. It simplifies setup, avoids micromanagement bloat, and delivers smart, cooperative gameplay that feels both nostalgic and new.

While it isn’t perfect—some dialogue might be skippable, and online play depends on your internet—Sunderfolk gets the most important things right. It’s strategic but not stressful. Deep but approachable. And more than anything, it makes you want to call up three friends and jump into the next chapter.