2D Versus Game 'KasMind' Puts Taunting at the Center of Victory
By making the traditionally meaningless or taboo action of taunting the sole victory condition, 'KasMind' redefines the core loop of a versus fighting game, turning trash talk into a mechanical necessity rather than an optional insult.
Key Facts
- KasMind is scheduled for release on Steam in the third quarter of 2026.
- The price is planned to be around 300 yen, with the official price announced on the Steam store page.
- The game features 11 characters with unique stats and taunt lines voiced by VOICEVOX.
- Each round lasts 30 seconds, and the first player to win two rounds wins the match.
- The game uses a tug-of-war scoring system where only taunts earn points, not attacks.
Reporting from 2 sources: Denfaminicogamer, Game Spark.
Independent developer Kogiri (kgrdev) announced on July 15 that the 2D versus action game 'KasMind' will be released on Steam in the third quarter of 2026. The game inverts the usual fighting game structure by making taunting the only way to score points; attacks merely knock down the opponent to create an opening. Each round lasts 30 seconds, and the first player to win two rounds wins the match. The score is displayed as a tug-of-war gauge, allowing comebacks until the final moments. The game currently features 11 characters, each with different movement speed, attack range, taunt recovery time, and unique taunt lines voiced using the speech synthesis software VOICEVOX. Additional characters are planned. Controls use only four keys for move, attack, and taunt. Modes include CPU battles with three difficulty levels, local versus on one screen and keyboard, and online versus through Steam's network features. The price is planned to be around 300 yen, with Japanese and English language support. The official price will be posted on the Steam store page.
Kogiri's 'KasMind' takes the concept of crouch taunting-a gesture often considered disrespectful in fighting games-and builds the entire game around it. Players earn points only by performing taunts, not by landing attacks. The tug-of-war scoring system means the lead can shift rapidly, keeping matches tense until the timer runs out. Each of the 11 characters has distinct stats and taunt lines generated by the free VOICEVOX synthesizer, with lines that range from internet slang to condescending remarks. The 30-second rounds and best-of-two structure encourage quick, aggressive taunting, but players must balance risk: taunting too close to a downed opponent can leave them open to a counterattack. The game supports only four control keys, making it accessible for beginners. Online versus modes let players face strangers worldwide. Kogiri plans to add more characters after launch. The game is scheduled for Steam in Q3 2026 at approximately 300 yen, with Japanese and English text and voice support.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 2 cited sources below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.