- Montabi mobile availability: Currently PC-only on Steam, no official iOS or Android release yet
- Core genre: Creature-collector roguelike deckbuilder with tactical turn-based combat
- Battle system: 3x3 grid positioning with card-based skills and action points
- Launch discount: 10% off on Steam until August 20, 2026 (base price $19.99)
- Critical rule: Protect your Trainer at all times — if they fall, the run ends immediately
Montabi Mobile: Platform Availability & Overview
Montabi is a creature-collecting roguelike deckbuilder developed by Mankibo and published by Akupara Games. Launched on August 6, 2026, the game combines monster taming with tactical card-based combat on a 3x3 grid. Players looking for Montabi mobile support should note that the game is currently exclusive to PC via Steam for Windows and macOS.
Video Highlights:
- Demo showcases tactical rogue-lite pacing with quick battle transitions
- Map structure feels similar to Slay the Spire with branching paths
- Skills are represented as cards, costing action points to play
- Players can tame wild Montabi using biscuits after victorious battles
- Leveling up grants new skill cards and sticker modifications
The game features over 60 collectible Montabi across 22 starter evolutionary lines, each offering a unique deck and playstyle. With a Very Positive rating (93% from 80 reviews on Steam as of August 2026), the title has quickly gained traction among strategy and deckbuilding enthusiasts.
As of August 2026, Montabi is available exclusively on Steam for Windows and macOS. There is no official mobile version, and the Steam Deck compatibility is currently listed as Unknown. Players seeking a portable experience should monitor official channels for future platform announcements.
| Platform | Availability | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam (Windows) | Available Now | $17.99 (10% off) | Launch sale ends Aug 20, 2026 |
| Steam (macOS) | Available Now | $17.99 (10% off) | Requires macOS 10.13+ |
| iOS | Not Available | N/A | No official announcement |
| Android | Not Available | N/A | No official announcement |
| Steam Deck | Unknown | $17.99 | Compatibility not yet verified |
Core Combat Mechanics & Battle System
Montabi's combat revolves around a tactical 3x3 grid where positioning determines the effectiveness of every move. Each Montabi brings its own set of skill cards into battle, and players must manage action points (AP) strategically to maximize damage output and battlefield control.
Understanding the 3x3 Grid
Your Montabi occupy specific tiles on the grid, and many attacks are range-dependent. Melee attacks target the closest enemy, while ranged abilities like Celestial Spark can hit targets three to four tiles ahead. Pushing and repositioning enemies adds a layer of tactical depth rarely seen in traditional deckbuilders.
Always check the range of your cards before deploying units. A Montabi placed on the front line may take heavy melee damage, while back-row placement can keep ranged attackers safe. Use push effects to disrupt enemy formations and create openings.
Card System Breakdown
Each Montabi has a unique deck of skill cards with varying AP costs, effects, and rarities. Cards display critical information including attack type, target range, and special effects like push, armor, or vulnerability.
| Card Element | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| AP Cost | Action points required to play | Pebble Throw costs 1 AP |
| Card Type | Melee, Ranged, or Support | Lunge = Melee, 3 damage + push |
| Target Range | Which tiles the card affects | Closest enemy / 3-4 tiles ahead |
| Special Effects | Additional modifiers | Vulnerable, Armor, Knockback |
| Rarity | Card power tier | Common, Rare, Epic |
Melee Cards
- Target closest enemy
- Often include push effects
- Best for front-line Montabi
- Lower AP cost on average
Ranged Cards
- Hit enemies 3-4 tiles away
- Can target back-row threats
- Higher damage potential
- May require specific positioning
Support Cards
- Move allies or enemies
- Apply buffs and debuffs
- Draw additional cards
- Manipulate discard piles
Trainers, Montabi & Team Building
Building a synergistic team is the heart of Montabi's gameplay loop. Players select a Trainer and assemble a squad of Montabi, each contributing unique cards and abilities to the shared deck. The Trainer acts as the king on a chessboard — their defeat means instant game over.
Choosing Your Trainer
Trainers come with distinct playstyles that shape your overall strategy. Some excel at repositioning units for optimal attacks, others prefer aggressive front-line combat, and some provide supportive buffs like healing or stat enhancements.
Your Trainer functions like the king in chess. If they are defeated in battle, your entire run ends immediately. Always prioritize Trainer protection when deploying units and selecting defensive cards.
Taming and Collecting Montabi
After each victorious battle, players have a chance to tame wild Montabi using items like biscuits. Successfully tamed Montabi join your roster, expanding your tactical options. With over 60 Montabi to collect and 22 starter evolutionary lines, team composition possibilities are extensive.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Montabi | 60+ collectible creatures |
| Starter Lines | 22 unique evolutionary lines |
| Team Size | Up to 4 Montabi per battle |
| Taming Item | Biscuits (obtained from battles/events) |
| Evolution | Level up to unlock new forms and cards |
Evolution and Skill Drafting
As Montabi level up through battles, they evolve into more powerful forms and gain access to new skill cards. The game also features a sticker system that allows players to modify and enhance existing cards, adding another layer of customization.
Focus on synergies between Montabi rather than raw individual power. A team of four Montabi whose cards complement each other — such as one that applies Vulnerable while another exploits it — will consistently outperform a group of individually strong but uncoordinated units.
Step-by-Step: Your First Successful Run
Select Your Starter and Trainer
Choose from 22 starter evolutionary lines based on your preferred playstyle. Pair your starter with a Trainer whose abilities complement your Montabi's strengths. Consider whether you want aggressive melee pressure, ranged area control, or a balanced support-oriented approach.
Navigate the Map Strategically
The map follows a Slay the Spire-style branching path system. Plan your route carefully — battle nodes reward coins and taming opportunities, cafes restore HP, and study nodes let you level up. Avoid tough gang encounters early when your team is still developing.
Master the Preparation Phase
Before each battle, choose which Montabi to deploy and where to place them on the 3x3 grid. Position melee units on the front line and ranged attackers behind. Keep your Trainer in a protected position away from immediate threats.
Manage Action Points and Cards
You start each turn with a set number of action points. Prioritize high-impact cards that either deal significant damage or reposition enemies. Drawing additional cards can be valuable, but only if you have the AP to play them. Track your discard pile to anticipate available options.
Tame, Evolve, and Strengthen
After victories, use biscuits to tame wild Montabi and expand your team. Visit study nodes to level up your Montabi, unlocking evolutions and new skill cards. Apply stickers to enhance key cards and visit cafes to heal between encounters.
One of Montabi's strengths is its brisk pace. Battles resolve quickly without lengthy animations, which is essential for a roguelike where you will frequently restart. Use this momentum to experiment with different team compositions and strategies across multiple runs.
Map Nodes, Items & Progression Systems
The map in Montabi features over 30 randomized events that keep each run feeling fresh. Understanding what each node type offers helps you chart an efficient path through the city.
Map Node Types
| Node Type | Effect | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Battle | Fight enemies, earn coins, chance to tame | Medium-High |
| Cafe | Restore HP for your team | High (when injured) |
| Study | Level up a Montabi, gain new skills | High |
| Shop | Purchase items, equipment, and charms | Medium |
| Relic | Obtain passive bonuses | High |
| Event | Randomized encounters with varied outcomes | Variable |
| Rest | Recover and prepare for next challenge | Medium |
Items play a crucial role in Montabi's progression. Equipment and charms provide persistent bonuses across your run. Biscuits enable taming, vitamins boost stats, and stickers modify card behavior. Manage your backpack carefully — space is limited and every item slot matters.
Key Items to Collect
Consumables
- Biscuits: Tame wild Montabi after battle
- Vitamins: Permanently boost Montabi stats
- Healing Items: Restore HP between fights
Permanent Upgrades
- Equipment: Persistent stat bonuses
- Charms: Special passive effects
- Relics: Powerful run-long modifiers
- Stickers: Modify individual card behavior
Leveling and Skill Selection
When your Montabi levels up, you choose from new skill pairs. Each skill adds a card to that Montabi's deck or enhances an existing one. The sticker system lets you attach modifiers — such as adding Vulnerable to an attack or increasing damage against distant enemies — giving you fine-grained control over your build.
First Run Priorities:
- Unlock at least 2 additional starter Montabi
- Build a team of 4 synergistic Montabi
- Successfully tame 5 or more wild Montabi
- Reach and defeat a boss-level X Gang member
- Collect 3 or more relics in a single run
Editions, Pricing & FAQ
Montabi is available in several editions and bundles on Steam. The standard edition includes the base game, while the Deluxe Edition bundles the soundtrack and art book for dedicated fans.
Available Editions
| Edition | Price | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $17.99 (sale) / $19.99 | Base game, 22 Steam Achievements |
| Deluxe Edition | $30.57 (sale) | Base game + Soundtrack + Art Book |
| Playful Card Showdown | $26.98 (sale) | Montabi + My Card Is Better Than Yours |
| Talespinner x Montabi | $26.98 (sale) | Montabi + Talespinner |
The 10% launch discount runs until August 20, 2026. If you are considering the Deluxe Edition or any bundle, this is the best time to purchase. All bundles stack the launch discount with bundle savings for maximum value.
Supported Languages
Montabi supports 9 languages for interface and subtitles: English, Spanish (Spain), Indonesian, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, French, German, Korean, and Traditional Chinese. Full audio is available in English only.
Accessibility Features
The game includes adjustable difficulty, save-anytime functionality, camera comfort options, custom volume controls, and full mouse-only playability with no quick-time events required.
Q: Is Montabi available on mobile devices (iOS or Android)?
As of August 2026, Montabi is not available on mobile platforms. The game is currently PC-exclusive, available on Steam for Windows and macOS. The developer Mankibo and publisher Akupara Games have not announced any mobile versions. Players interested in Montabi mobile should follow official channels like the game's Discord for future announcements.
Q: What happens if my Trainer is defeated in battle?
Your Trainer functions like the king in chess. If your Trainer is defeated, your entire run ends immediately regardless of how many Montabi remain alive. Always position your Trainer safely and bring defensive cards to protect them from enemy attacks.
Q: How many Montabi can I have on my team?
You can deploy a team of up to 4 Montabi in battle. Each Montabi contributes its unique skill cards to your shared deck, so team composition directly affects your available strategies. Choose Montabi whose abilities synergize with each other.
Q: How does the taming system work?
After winning a battle, you have a chance to tame wild Montabi using biscuits. Biscuits can be obtained from battle rewards, events, and shops. Successfully tamed Montabi join your roster and can be deployed in future battles, expanding your tactical options.
Q: Is Montabi a roguelike with permadeath?
Yes, Montabi is a roguelike deckbuilder. When your run ends — either by Trainer defeat or other failure conditions — you restart from the beginning. However, unlocked Montabi and certain progression elements carry over between runs, giving you more options in subsequent attempts.