Children of Morta: Paws and Claws is an action RPG adventure DLC that expands the core experience of the base game with new systems centered on animal care and home life. Released as a charity-focused addition, it integrates directly into the existing narrative about the Bergson family and their fight against corruption. The DLC emphasizes single-player progression with optional co-op support, blending combat, exploration, and management elements in a pixel-art style. Players who enjoy narrative-driven action games with roguelite components will find the additions enhance daily routines and character growth without altering the fundamental loop.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around controlling members of the Bergson family as they venture into dangerous areas to battle enemies and advance the story. Combat mixes real-time action with RPG progression, where characters gain abilities and stats through play. The Paws and Claws DLC introduces the Animal Shelter System as a new section within the family house. This area allows players to interact with visiting animals such as deer, foxes, and birds through a dedicated mechanic that involves using treats to feed and care for them. These interactions trigger special boosts for the Bergsons, including increased XP gain and movement speed, which carry over into runs and improve overall efficiency. Over 100 new animations depict these moments, adding visual detail to the home environment. New home interactive events further tie the shelter activities into the daily life of the family, creating a steady rhythm between expeditions and downtime management.
Game Modes
Two primary modes define the structure. Story mode follows the main campaign with a focus on narrative progression, character development, and sequential challenges. Family Trials mode shifts toward a more roguelike structure, featuring randomized dungeon layouts in the Zyklus area, permanent death within each session, and a talent system that replaces the standard skill tree. In this mode, the full family roster becomes available immediately, and sessions emphasize objectives like defeating specific foes or rescuing NPCs. The DLC features apply across both modes, with animal-related boosts and shelter events accessible during home segments regardless of the chosen mode. Co-op options exist in both, supporting online and local play for shared progression.
Animal Shelter System and New Mechanics
The Animal Shelter System forms the centerpiece of the DLC by adding a dedicated space in the family home where a variety of animals arrive over time. Players manage their care through the treat-feeding mechanic, which directly influences available boosts. These boosts provide tangible advantages in combat and exploration, such as faster leveling or improved mobility for the Bergson characters. Additional home events expand on these interactions, offering short narrative or visual moments that reflect the growing presence of the animals. The system encourages repeated visits to the shelter between runs, turning the base into a more lived-in space with ongoing responsibilities.
Is It Worth Playing?
The DLC suits players already invested in the base game who appreciate added layers of home management alongside the action and story elements. It maintains the family-focused tone while introducing meaningful progression tools through the shelter and boosts. The charity element, with all proceeds directed to animal welfare, adds a real-world dimension that aligns with the game's themes of care and resilience. Those seeking expanded single-player content with light management mechanics will find value in the new animations, events, and systems that integrate seamlessly. Availability on PC supports straightforward access for those exploring the full package.
