If you are looking for a short action game to try this weekend, Nocturnal is currently free on Steam for a limited time. The game usually sells for around $17, but you can claim it at no cost until April 26. Once added to your library, it is yours to keep.
In Nocturnal, you play as Ardeshir, a soldier who returns to his homeland after years away. He finds the island of Nahran covered in a strange fog and filled with dangerous creatures. Your main goal is to explore the island, fight enemies, and uncover what caused the destruction.
The gameplay focuses on fast-paced 2D action and platforming. It has fire-based mechanics. Ardeshir uses a burning sword, and fire plays a central role in both combat and exploration. It can be used to clear fog, burn obstacles, activate mechanisms, and defeat enemies. The game also includes light progression elements, where players can collect ash and use it at phoenix statues to unlock upgrades.
Nocturnal has received positive feedback from both critics and players. It holds a Metascore of 81 on Metacritic, while user reviews on Steam are also strong, with 91 percent of more than 700 reviews marked as positive.
The game is also rated “Verified” for Steam Deck, which means it should run smoothly on Valve’s handheld gaming device. Here’s a list of Steam Deck Verified Games if you want to see all.
This limited-time offer gives players a chance to try a well-received indie title without any cost. Since the promotion ends on April 26, interested users will need to claim the game before the deadline to keep it in their library permanently.

