Ethan Crossfield 
Digital game ownership becomes more complicated whenever a title leaves a storefront. While delisting does not remove a game from the libraries of people who already claimed it, it can permanently close the door for everyone else. That situation is approaching for Witchcraft: Candy Hunt, a 2023 2D shooter from PixelCrown Games that is currently free to claim on Steam.
Why Witchcraft: Candy Hunt Is Leaving Steam
PixelCrown Games has announced plans to permanently remove Witchcraft: Candy Hunt from Steam. The studio described the shooter as an important early step for its team and said its attention is now focused on GODSCALE, a dark fantasy action platformer currently in development.
The developer has not announced a specific delisting date. Steam removals also involve a request from the developer followed by Valve's own process, so the available claiming window is uncertain. That makes the free offer time-sensitive even though the game is already available at no cost.
What Players Get From the Free Claim
Witchcraft: Candy Hunt is designed as a compact throwback to classic 2D side-scrolling shooters. Players fly on a broomstick through three levels, battling different enemies across a Halloween-themed adventure. Three difficulty settings provide some flexibility for players looking for either a more relaxed run or a tougher challenge.
The game uses pixel-art visuals and a retro presentation rather than pursuing a large-scale modern campaign. Steam reviews are currently rated Positive, with 87 percent of listed reviews marked positive. Players have noted that the runtime is short, but the game's visuals, atmosphere, and straightforward action have received praise.
The Safest Next Step for Steam Users
Anyone interested in trying the game should claim it on Steam as soon as possible. Players who add Witchcraft: Candy Hunt to their library before the delisting can continue to own and play it afterward, according to the developer's announcement. Users who wait until the game disappears may not get another opportunity, since a return to the platform has not been indicated.
Its Halloween setting also gives the game a natural seasonal appeal as October approaches. The limited length may make it better suited to a quick weekend or evening playthrough, while the free price removes much of the risk for players curious about a small retro shooter.
Key points
- Witchcraft: Candy Hunt is a free 2023 2D shooter on Steam.
- PixelCrown Games plans to delist it permanently.
- The removal date has not been revealed and depends on Valve's process.
- Players who claim it before removal can keep and play it afterward.
Confirmed game details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | PixelCrown Games |
| Genre | 2D shooter |
| Content | Three levels, broomstick movement, distinct enemies, and three difficulty settings |
| Steam status | Free to claim now, with permanent delisting planned |
| Reviews | Positive; 87 percent of current reviews are positive |
Expert View
This case highlights the preservation problem facing smaller digital releases, especially games without an ongoing monetization model. A free title can remain accessible to existing owners while becoming unavailable to new players, turning a routine platform decision into a narrow ownership window. For PixelCrown Games, the delisting also marks a transition from an earlier shooter to its next project, GODSCALE. For the community, claiming Witchcraft: Candy Hunt now is the only confirmed way to retain access if the Steam removal proceeds.
