Cartomancy Anthology Is Now Free on Steam

Cartomancy Anthology has unexpectedly dropped its $24.99 price on Steam and is now free to download permanently. The move stands out because the tarot-themed indie collection was already well received, rather than becoming free after a weak launch.

What happened to Cartomancy Anthology

Compact and publisher Code Coven changed Cartomancy Anthology from a paid Steam release to a free title on October 2, 2026. Neither company has explained the decision, so there is no confirmed reason behind the removal of its $24.99 price tag. What is clear is that Steam users can now add the collection to their library and play it without charge.

The project originally arrived in 2022 after a Kickstarter campaign raised more than $30,000. A Nintendo Switch version had been planned, but the crowdfunding effort did not reach the relevant stretch goal. As a result, the anthology launched on Steam and itch.io instead.

Why the free release matters

This is not a typical case of an overlooked game trying to attract attention through a price cut. Cartomancy Anthology has more than 90% positive user reviews on Steam, while its reception on itch.io has also been favorable. Its new free status gives a larger audience an easy way to sample a project that already had strong player approval.

Cartomancy Anthology brings together 22 compact games created by 22 teams and more than 70 developers. Each entry is linked to a Major Arcana tarot card, creating a collection built around short, reflective experiences rather than one long campaign. The games span several formats, including cooking simulations, fishing games and platformers.

What to watch next

The main question is whether Compact or Code Coven will clarify why the collection became free. Players should also keep expectations aligned with the anthology format: most of its games are designed to be completed in a single sitting, though they can be revisited. Before each experience, the collection introduces its creators, making it useful as a discovery tool for players interested in finding more work from individual indie teams.

Some entries address sensitive subjects, including mental health and death. Content warnings are included, and players can skip games they would rather avoid without needing to complete them.

What Steam players should know

• Cartomancy Anthology is now free on Steam, with no stated claim deadline.
• The collection contains 22 short games rather than one single genre experience.
• It has received more than 90% positive user reviews on Steam.
• Players can skip entries with sensitive themes after reviewing their content warnings.

Cartomancy Anthology at a glance

Expert View

Making a positively received anthology free is a strong visibility play: it lowers the barrier for players while giving dozens of contributing developers a broader showcase. For Steam users, it is a low-risk opportunity to explore varied indie design in a single download.