Review: Monster Slayers
Monster Slayers: A Quaint Yet Ultimately Pedestrian Addition to the Genre
As I settle into my leather armchair, vintage fountain pen at the ready, I find myself contemplating Nerdook Productions’ contribution to the ever-expanding pantheon of deckbuilding roguelikes.
Initial Impressions
Monster Slayers presents itself as an accessible entry in the deckbuilding genre, though one can’t help but notice its rather modest production values. The game’s aesthetic, while serviceable, lacks the sophisticated polish one might expect from more prestigious titles in the genre.
The combat system, I must note, demonstrates a refreshing clarity in its presentation. The interface, while lacking the baroque complexity of more distinguished titles, manages to communicate essential information with admirable efficiency. The poison and block mechanics suggest at least a modicum of tactical depth, though perhaps not enough to satisfy the more discriminating connoisseur.
Mechanical Framework
The game’s core mechanics revolve around a relatively straightforward card-based combat system, reminiscent of the sublime Duelyst, though executed with considerably less finesse. The inclusion of six character classes provides some variety, though their implementation occasionally feels rather… pedestrian.
The world map interface presents a reasonably well-conceived progression system, with various locations to explore and resources to manage. However, the procedural generation of encounters, while theoretically providing endless variety, often results in a rather repetitive experience.
Strategic Depth
The deck-building aspects, while functional, lack the intricate synergies and profound decision-making opportunities that elevate the finest examples of the genre.
The support mechanics and status effects do provide some tactical options, though they rarely achieve the kind of strategic complexity that might warrant extended discussion at one of my monthly soirées.
Progression and Customization
The character creation system is decidedly basic, offering minimal customization options that barely scratch the surface of what one might expect from a modern title. The fame system for unlocking abilities provides some sense of progression, though it feels rather perfunctory in its implementation.
Production Values
The visual presentation, while maintaining a certain charm, clearly operates within significant budgetary constraints. The atmospheric environments and character designs demonstrate adequate artistry, though they rarely transcend their modest origins.
Final Verdict
Monster Slayers positions itself as an entry-level deckbuilding experience, and in this limited ambition, it largely succeeds. However, for those of us who have experienced the heights of strategic complexity offered by more sophisticated titles, it can feel rather wanting.
Taking a final note with my cherished fountain pen, I must conclude that while Monster Slayers provides adequate entertainment for neophytes, it lacks the refined mechanical depth and production values that would earn it a place among the genre’s elite.
The game might serve as a suitable introduction to deckbuilding mechanics for the uninitiated, but seasoned enthusiasts will likely find themselves yearning for more substantial fare.
Pros:
- Clear and accessible mechanics
- Decent variety in character classes
- Functional progression system
Cons:
- Limited strategic depth
- Repetitive gameplay loops
- Basic production values
- Shallow customization options
For those seeking an entry point into the genre, Monster Slayers might suffice. For the rest of us, perhaps it’s best left to gather dust alongside lesser specimens in one’s digital library.
Score
Overall Score: 6/10
Developer: Nerdook Productions
Release Date: Mar 23, 2017
Steam Page: Monster Slayers