Knights of the Chalice – Fireball, My Only Friend [Field Report]

Welcome to this report on Knights of the Chalice. This is not a true review, since I’m far from the ending, as the game seemingly looks to be huge, with plenty of monsters and evildoers needing vanquishing. Treat this more as an ongoing field report in appreciation of what this title offers. The way I’m playing it, it fits better as an audiobook companion (don’t judge me!) than a full RPG experience that requires your complete attention—even if it does need it for success in the hairiest situations. 

You see, this is a Dungeons and Dragons fighting simulator where the story only serves to take you from one challenging battle to the next. Knowledge of the DnD 3.5 ruleset is mandatory, or the orcs will make sheesh kebab out of your heroic group of adventurers before you even have time to unsheathe your sword.

Continue reading “Knights of the Chalice – Fireball, My Only Friend [Field Report]”

Ardenfall – Demo Impressions

I decided to try the Ardenfall demo, which is an Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind-inspired RPG, set in a fantasy world that can best be likened to Vvardenfell—strange wildlife and all. The oddity of the place, just like Morrowind, comes from the familiar, mixed with the unfamiliar—and while I’m not entirely sold on the visual style, it does play a huge part in its oddness. So, if you love to explore bizarre alien worlds with an oriental cultural flavor, this will feel tailor‑made for you.

Continue reading “Ardenfall – Demo Impressions”

History of Dungeon-Master Clones 1987-2012 [Video]

Here is a great video by a fellow Swede, called JemyM on YouTube. He goes through every real-time blobber from 1987 to 2012 with a surprisingly deep review for each title. If you care about RPGs, and see value in gaming history—this is a top-notch video to watch that avoids meme overload and feels more “academic”. Unexpectedly, a project of this magnitude will produce a lengthy video, hence the runtime clocking in at nearly 4.5 hours. In my opinion, this just means more of a good thing. However, I recommend bringing a large thermos with strong coffee if you are going to tackle the video in one go. Watch the video after the jump!

Continue reading “History of Dungeon-Master Clones 1987-2012 [Video]”

Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy – Side-quests or Die! [Review]

Welcome to AtomTeam’s third RPG: Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy. If you have played any of their former projects, like ATOM RPG: Post-apocalyptic indie game, or ATOM RPG Trudograd, you know what to expect here. It’s essentially the same type of roleplaying experience—created in the same engine, following the established structure, and gameplay mechanics they created. However, this time they are ditching the radiated wasteland for a lush low-fantasy medieval world, where the sword rules instead of the rifle.

Continue reading “Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy – Side-quests or Die! [Review]”

Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy – IS OUT!

After about a year in Early Access on Steam following its successful Kickstarter campaign, Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy is finally out! I have invested a few hours into it, but it was a while back (about a year ago). I remember being entertained in a low-level RPG way, similar to Baldur’s Gate, which I just love. Funnily enough, this was said back then too, but I’m sticking with it! I don’t think much has changed in that regard, though—except that we have a full game on our hands now. So, it’s a pure Christmas joy, as I didn’t actually know it was this close to release, yet, here we are. Make sure to take a gander over at their Steam page, if you want a cozy, grounded adventure during the winter months. And the price is not too shabby, just a bit over twenty euros, making it a steal!

Continue reading “Swordhaven: Iron Conspiracy – IS OUT!”