Pecking Order Multiplayer Party Game Announces Public Playtest From South African Studio
Shaun M Jooste 
South Africa’s indie game development scene continues to grow, and Talent Digital is stepping into the spotlight with a chaotic new multiplayer experience. Pecking Order, a fast-paced party game built around shifting roles and unpredictable gameplay, is officially opening its doors to players with a limited-time public playtest this May.
A chaotic twist on the food chain
At its core, Pecking Order flips the traditional multiplayer formula by embracing chaos instead of control. Players enter matches as worms, scrambling across the environment in a desperate attempt to reach power generators and escape. However, the skies are anything but safe, as birds swoop in from above to hunt them down.
What makes the gameplay truly stand out is its dynamic role-switching mechanic. Instead of being eliminated when caught, players instantly become birds themselves. This creates a constant cycle where the hunted become the hunters, ensuring that no one sits out and every match remains active from start to finish.
This mechanic transforms each round into a living ecosystem where power constantly shifts. Players must adapt quickly, switching strategies mid-game and reacting to ever-changing circumstances, making each session feel fresh and unpredictable.
Designed for social chaos and replayability
Pecking Order supports up to 16 players in online multiplayer matches, making it ideal for group play and social gaming sessions. The design leans heavily into physics-driven interactions, where movement, timing, and positioning all contribute to the chaos on screen.
The emphasis on emergent gameplay means no two matches play out the same way. Whether it’s a perfectly timed escape or a sudden ambush from above, players are constantly reacting to one another rather than following rigid rules or scripted events.
This approach also enhances replayability. With roles shifting continuously and outcomes rarely predictable, players are encouraged to jump back in for just one more round, often leading to extended sessions filled with laughter and unexpected moments.
Public playtest details and how to join
The upcoming public playtest offers players a chance to experience the game early while also helping shape its development. Talent Digital is inviting feedback from the community to refine mechanics and improve the overall experience before launch.
If you’re keen to take part, here are the key details:
- Platform: PC via Steam
- Genre: Multiplayer party game
- Players: Up to 16 online
- Developer: Talent Digital
- Playtest sessions:
- Friday, May 1: 21:00–01:00 UTC
- Saturday, May 2: 20:00–01:00 UTC
- Sunday, May 3: 20:00–00:00 UTC
Players can request access through the official Steam store page and join during the scheduled windows.
A rising moment for South African game development
Pecking Order represents more than just another party game release. It highlights the growing talent within South Africa’s game development industry, showcasing creative ideas that can compete on a global stage.
By combining simple mechanics with clever design twists, Talent Digital is delivering an experience that feels both accessible and deeply engaging. The playtest phase will be a crucial step in refining the game, but the foundation already points to something highly entertaining.
As more local studios step forward with bold concepts, titles like Pecking Order help put South African developers firmly on the map. And it looks like it should be a really thrilling game!
Step into the chaos and support local creativity
With its unique role-switching gameplay and focus on social chaos, Pecking Order is shaping up to be a standout multiplayer experience. The upcoming playtest is the perfect opportunity to jump in early, experience the madness, and contribute to its evolution.
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