Inkulinati, published by Daedalic Entertainment and developed by Yaza Games, brings medieval manuscripts to life in an off-beat turn-based strategy adventure that’s out now on multiple systems including the PlayStation 5. Drawing inspiration from the bizarre yet captivating art found in ancient texts, Inkulinati introduces players to a world where medieval-style doodles can become part of large battles for supremacy. And while its premise may seem whimsical, Inkulinati offers a depth of strategy that will we found to be surprising.
At its core, Inkulinati is about commanding an army of fantastical creatures, known as Beasts, in their battles against opposing Inkulinati Masters. Each Beast possesses unique abilities, and mastering the synergies between them is your key to victory. From sword-wielding rabbits to farting (!) foxes, the roster of creatures is as diverse as it is entertaining. The game’s combat system combines elements of deckbuilding and positional tactics, offering a fresh and engaging gameplay experience that’s far more engaging than some of the silly elements suggest.
Visually, Inkulinati is lovely to look at. Its art style is reminiscent of medieval manuscripts, infusing every aspect of the game with a unique kind of charm and personality. Vibrant colors and hand-drawn designs bring the world to life, while parchment backgrounds and flowing narration enhance the immersive experience. It’s a refreshing departure from traditional strategy game aesthetics and adds to the game’s overall appeal as something quite unique.
As mentioned, beneath the game’s lighthearted exterior lies a surprisingly deep and nuanced strategy game. Battles are not just about brute force and sheer numbers, but require careful planning and tactical positioning. Each decision matters, and adapting to the ever-changing battlefield is a crucial element for success. The game’s balance of strategy and accessibility makes it enjoyable for both casual players and strategy veterans, as the gameplay scales well.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Inkulinati has an innovative approach to turn-based combat. The ability to manipulate the battlefield using Hand Actions adds an extra layer of strategy, allowing players to disrupt their opponents’ plans or create opportunities for their own Beasts. Environmental hazards and random events keep battles dynamic and unpredictable, ensuring that no two encounters are the same.
Despite its strengths, Inkulinati is not without its flaws. The campaign itself is relatively short and over before you want it to be, while a low amount of unlockables gives you a limited sense of progression as well. And while we found the game’s humor and charm endearing, it may not appeal to those seeking a more serious and less whimsical strategy experience.
Overall, Inkulinati is a delightful blend of humor, strategy, and medieval visual designs. Its unique premise, engaging gameplay, and charming art style make it a standout title in the strategy genre. Whether you’re a fan of turn-based strategy games or simply appreciate quirky indie gems, Inkulinati is definitely worth checking out on the PlayStation 5.
Score: 8.0/10
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