CoAction Unveils Debut Game ‘Sucks to Be In The Sticks’

The independent game studio CoAction has officially announced its first title, Sucks to Be In The Sticks, set to release in the first quarter of 2026 on the Steam platform. This narrative-driven game explores the life of vampires working night shift jobs, offering a unique take on the genre. A demo version is currently available for players eager to experience this dark and immersive world.

At the heart of the game is Ilo, a 19-year-old who undergoes a profound transformation after becoming a vampire. Unlike typical vampire narratives that often indulge in familiar tropes, Sucks to Be In The Sticks delves into the subtle, often unspoken challenges faced by individuals living in small towns. Players engage with Ilo’s journey through emotional mini-games that surface hidden memories, dreams, and fears each time she feeds on human blood or energy.

Living as a vampire is portrayed as a complex existence. The game emphasizes the struggle to maintain humanity amidst supernatural impulses. Players will find themselves participating in poignant moments, such as late-night conversations with Ilo’s mother while assisting her in a flower shop, attempting to mend a childhood friendship strained by secrets, or even spending hard-earned wages to care for stray cats. These interactions provide a window into Ilo’s character and the relationships that define her life.

The game also enriches its narrative by incorporating voices often overlooked in traditional gaming contexts. It features characters from queer communities, migrants, and ethnic minorities, reflecting both realism and metaphorical dimensions. Through these encounters, Sucks to Be In The Sticks addresses broader social and political themes, shedding light on how societal systems can suppress empathy and punish those who resist conformity. Players will witness grassroots activism and the quiet resilience that emerges from personal hardship.

Visually, the game presents a striking portrayal of a town in decline, balancing a sense of bleakness with an eerie familiarity. The art style captures the fading beauty of this environment, inviting players to explore a narrative that intertwines themes of love, grief, laughter, and survival.

Sucks to Be In The Sticks promises to be more than just a story about vampires; it aims to provoke thought and discussion about the human condition, the struggles of marginalized communities, and the hope that can emerge from despair. As the game approaches its release, anticipation builds among players eager to engage with its rich narrative and emotional depth.