https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmc8jlpvsEw
Before we get right into this preview piece, we want to cover some formalities. This is not a full review of Necropolis, but a first-impressions piece and as such, we want to cover our time with the game so far. Now that the formalities are out of the way, let’s get right to it.
Necropolis is a roguelike adventure title featuring perma-death, so this is certainly not a game for the faint of heart. The game comes from the developers Harebrained Schemes where they give players the quest of finding out what lays at the bottom of a vast and magical dungeon.
There have been several treasure hunters before you that have entered this dungeon, but none have returned. Off to find glory, treasure, and adventure, players embark their journey into the great unknown.
Okay, I’m going to get the first big gripe I had so far with this game right out of the way and that’s the tutorial, well, the lack of one I should say. When a player jumps into the game they are introduced to a screen that shows off every button and resulting action rather than easing players into the control scheme with some beginner levels. This will lead to several deaths right from the start as you learn how to control your character along with some basic maneuvers.
For the most part, you will rely on two attacks, one that delivers a heavy blow while the other is your more melee quick. Also you’ll have a basic shield from the git go to block out some enemy attacks. It’s important to note that each attack will require stamina which is just as crucial as a health meter. No stamina means you won’t be able to attack or hold up your shield for that matter, leaving you defenseless against the hordes of enemies that lurk about in each room.
Another aspect that is rather interesting for Necropolis is gamers will find the dungeon will change each time they die and believe me you will die a lot. Ultimately, with this procedural dungeon effect in the game will have players guessing on how to make their way down to the final dungeon level. With that said, you’ll also find that these levels can swap out a variety of enemies, some easy while others are incredibly difficult. It’s best to cross your fingers for easier enemies when you first start out with the default gear.
Since we’re on the topic of gear, players will have access to two main weapons that can be swapped out at any given time, following up with a shield and armor. This, of course, can be followed with a few specialty items for purchase, but every item is more of a guess as to their performance. The descriptions are often vague leaving it you consistently swapping out gear pieces along with remembering or writing down what each item does when compared to the rest of this game’s arsenal.
Aesthetically, I can’t complain too much, this is a flat looking design and color scheme, but I really enjoy it. Of course, the various dungeon levels could use a bit of color, but when pools of colors does splash into the level, in my opinion, it’s rather gorgeous.
You can pick up Necropolis right now on the PC for $29.99 on Steam. If you’re interested in hearing more about the game, let us know and we’ll try and deliver a full review.
Disclosure: Code for the game was provided by the developer.
