Review: Monster Train
Monster Train Review: A Sublime Evolution of the Deckbuilding Genre
While taking notes with my cherished Montblanc fountain pen during an extensive analytical session with Monster Train, I found myself utterly captivated by its sophisticated mechanical depth and strategic nuance. What follows is my considered evaluation of this remarkable specimen in the ever-evolving deckbuilding genre.
A Revolutionary Vertical Ascent
In the rarefied air of premium deckbuilding experiences, Monster Train emerges as nothing short of a masterwork. While lesser titles might content themselves with derivative mechanics, Shiny Shoe has crafted an experience that elevates the genre through its innovative vertical combat system - a brilliant departure from the horizontal paradigm that has dominated the space since the early days of Dominion.
The game’s progression systems demonstrate a remarkable understanding of player psychology, offering a meticulously crafted advancement framework that puts many of its contemporaries to shame. The clan-based progression system, with its five distinct factions, provides an intellectual feast of strategic possibilities that I found myself analyzing deep into the night during several of my weekly soirées.
Mechanical Excellence in Design
The core gameplay loop reveals itself to be a masterclass in strategic depth. Each run presents players with a three-tiered battlefield - a design choice that transforms the traditional deckbuilding experience into something approaching architectural genius. The vertical positioning of units creates decision trees of such complexity that they would be worthy of their own doctoral thesis.
The interplay between the various clans - Hellhorned, Awoken, Stygian Guard, Umbra, and Melting Remnant - provides a combinatorial depth that surpasses even the most sophisticated Japanese deckbuilders in my collection. Each clan brings its own mechanical identity, yet they interweave in ways that create emergent strategies of remarkable sophistication.
Production Values and Aesthetic Coherence
While the visual presentation might not reach the rarefied heights of, say, Quantum Protocol’s particle effects, Monster Train’s gothic-industrial aesthetic demonstrates a commendable commitment to thematic consistency. The card artwork, particularly in the premium variants, shows remarkable attention to detail.
The sound design, with its orchestral flourishes and satisfying combat effects, creates an atmosphere that enhances the strategic depth without overwhelming the intellectual experience. The interface design shows a sophisticated understanding of information hierarchy that many contemporary titles would do well to study.
Multiplayer Innovation
The inclusion of “Hell Rush” mode - a real-time competitive experience for eight players - represents a bold innovation in the genre. While some might find the time pressure daunting, I found it to be an exhilarating test of one’s ability to make optimal decisions under duress, not unlike the pressure of defending one’s thesis before a panel of distinguished academics.
A Testament to Strategic Depth
With over 220 cards, multiple upgrade paths, and the brilliant covenant system providing 25 levels of escalating challenge, Monster Train offers a depth of content that would satisfy even the most discerning collector. The mod support through Steam Workshop ensures that the game’s strategic possibilities remain virtually limitless.
Conclusion
Monster Train represents nothing less than a quantum leap forward for the deckbuilding genre. Its innovative vertical combat system, sophisticated clan interactions, and masterful progression mechanics combine to create an experience that demands a place in any serious collector’s library. While some might find its learning curve steep, those willing to invest the intellectual effort will discover one of the finest strategic experiences available in the digital realm.
For those who appreciate the subtle nuances of advanced deckbuilding mechanics, Monster Train offers an experience that transcends the mundane and approaches the sublime. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when developers dare to innovate within established genres.
Written while enjoying a 1982 Bordeaux in my climate-controlled game room
Score
Overall Score: 10/10
Developer: Shiny Shoe
Release Date: May 21, 2020
Steam Page: Monster Train