For the past decade, Windsor’s iDream Interactive has been a quiet but powerful force in the gaming industry, crafting engaging games for some of the biggest names in the business. Their expertise in game design, mechanics, and player engagement has put them on the map—but now, they’re stepping into the spotlight in a whole new way.
Later this month, iDream Interactive will make its debut at Steam Next Fest, an international showcase of upcoming games on Steam, the world’s largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming. Their new title, Runeborn, represents more than just a new release—it’s a bold step forward, a declaration that they are ready to chart their own course in game development.
Canada’s Thriving Gaming Industry and iDream’s Evolution
Canada has long been a major player in the video game industry, home to development giants like Ubisoft, BioWare, and Digital Extremes. But beyond these blockbuster studios, the country’s indie developers have been making waves, carving out their own space in an industry that continues to grow at an explosive pace.
Windsor-Essex may not yet be considered a gaming hub on the scale of Montreal or Vancouver, but iDream Interactive is proving that world-class game development is happening right here. For years, they’ve been behind the scenes, helping brands engage players through well-crafted, immersive experiences. Now, they’re leveraging that experience to launch their own original game, stepping into a highly competitive but creatively rewarding market.
Introducing Runeborn
A dark fantasy adventure with deep strategy, Runeborn invites players to harness magical runes, build their own spellbooks, and battle through a corrupted world. The game is designed to offer incredible value—each playthrough is unique, meaning players get a fresh experience every time they sit down to play.
Jacob Duhaime, founder and CEO of iDream Interactive, sees Runeborn as a natural evolution of the studio’s expertise.
“Runeborn is an ode to the last 10 years we’ve spent developing free-to-play slots and puzzle games,” said Duhaime. “We set out to break the traditional slots mold and create a game that combines the thrill of strategic decision-making with skill-based gameplay. This game is the culmination of years of iteration and passion, and we’re beyond excited to share it with the world.”
A Unique Gaming Experience
Gamers can expect a fresh and immersive experience, featuring:
- Dynamic enemies & bosses that challenge players’ strategic thinking.
- Customizable challenges, allowing players to tailor their journey.
- A variety of in-game shops to power up and plan their approach.
- A striking dark fantasy art style, with a grungy, comic book-inspired aesthetic.
- Endless replayability, meaning no two playthroughs are ever the same.
Early player feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with one tester calling it “addictive in the best way—every run feels different, and I always want to go just one more round.” Another described getting lost in the game for hours, barely realizing time had passed.
What This Means for Windsor’s Gaming Scene
The launch of Runeborn is not just a win for iDream Interactive—it’s a milestone for Windsor’s gaming and tech industry. As the local economy diversifies beyond its automotive roots, companies like iDream are proving that high-quality digital innovation can thrive here. Their success signals an opportunity for more aspiring game developers in the region to build, create, and bring their own visions to life.
Try Runeborn Today
A free demo of Runeborn is now available on Steam, giving players an exclusive first look at the game ahead of its full release.
To learn more about iDream Interactive and their latest project, visit their website or check out their Steam page.