5/5
9.1/10
I'm so freaking addicted to this game.
I went looking for solo TTRPGs to play while laid up during a medical recovery in a few weeks. I might see all this game has before that time ever comes! This game is SO DAMN GOOD.
Like a prior commenter stated: The playsheet is a must for gameplay.
COMPLIMENTS:
This is a game that is very easily played on the go, as I play it on Procreate (I created each possible battle ground as a layer to switch between to lower setup time) while using my phone to roll dice or draw cards.
The maps felt diverse and impactful.
Build options are varied with a multitude of viable builds. I'd say any build is viable
Each enemy type had me cursing under my breath until I figured out the flow of combat with them - this was very satisfying.
I will say this: the game is hard. Pulling the Graviton Rig on round 1 was a nightmare that taught me a lot about how to use the environment to my advantage and made the rest of the game click.
CRITICISMS:
I found it a bit odd that the terms glossary was split over the front and back of the book, but once I adjusted to this I found gameplay to be very very fun, with some very harrowing, soulslike moments.
What I'd like to see: I'd love to see the suit of the cards pulled influencing the game more. I'm unsure if RUNE did so or not, as your game is my introduction to RUNElikes, but it would allow even more variety in each run. This could even allow greater loot variety.
What I'd like to see less of: nothing. You have all the right ingredients.
Major criticism: Having the gear right up front on the playsheet is very useful BUT it means that there is nearly no surprise or "wow" factor when getting equipment. This absolutely captures the feeling of mastering a soulslike but it doesn't capture any of the magic of earning the new gear. Each conflict is functionally a contest with the new piece of gear sitting on the table as a match ante. While this isn't a bad thing by ANY means it does greatly shape how the game feels, and is more of a note for potential players.
BUY THIS GAME IF: You enjoy soulslike games, Into The Breach, Armored Core, Front Mission, roguelikes, working towards a build, or addictive tactical combat.
DONT BUY THIS GAME IF: You hate losing, dislike build chasing, dislike combat where 1 dice roll can cost you dearly, or are seeking a game with a lot of secrets/unlockables.