When it comes to the crowded genre of tactical dungeon crawlers, Burst2Flame Entertainment’s Stolen Realm emerges as a fusion of genres, blending faster-paced action RPG elements with simultaneous turn-based combat. Set in a visually striking low-poly, high-fantasy universe, the game invites players to lead a band of up to six heroes through perilous, procedurally-generated adventures, offering both solo escapades and an engaging online co-op experience. We played it on a Nintendo Switch.
At its core, Stolen Realm presents an innovative combat system that marries the strategic depth of titles like we see in many of Larian’s games with the more dynamic pace of real-time action RPGs. The simultaneous team turn mechanic ensures battles unfold swiftly, demanding quick thinking and strategic planning. Moreover, the game intelligently scales its difficulty based on the number of participants in the battle, facilitating seamless multiplayer experiences without disrupting the flow of gameplay by making your party be over- or underpowered – a feature that truly sets it apart within a social setting.
One of the game’s standout features is its incredibly expansive character customization, featuring over 300 skills spread across nine distinct skill trees. This extensive selection to choose from empowers players to craft not just traditional RPG archetypes, but also experiment with innovative hybrids and combinations, fostering a sense of individuality and agency in character creation and development. The loot system further enhances this customization, with a plethora of magical items offering strategic depth and personalization options to suit various playstyles (while adding replay value).
However, Stolen Realm is not without its flaws. Despite its innovative spirit, the game grapples with some balancing issues at launch, particularly in the midgame and boss encounters where you’ll run into sudden spikes. Prolonged battles and a reliance on overpowering skills detract from the strategic elements, limiting the satisfaction derived from character progression and tactical decision-making. Additionally, while the story provides a compelling backdrop, it often feels like it merely has a supporting role towards the gameplay, lacking depth and immersion for those seeking a more narrative-driven experience.
On a technical level, Stolen Realm is rock solid, with smooth performance thanks to its low-poly aesthetics. However, some design choices, such as the inability to reverse decisions and limited use of consumables outside of battle, can feel limiting to RPG purists.
In summary, Stolen Realm offers a captivating blend of tactical depth, rapid-paced combat, and rich customization, making it an enticing prospect for fans of the genre. While it may falter in certain areas, particularly in balancing and narrative depth, its engaging solo and co-op gameplay and innovative combat mechanics make it a worthwhile adventure. With some refinement, Stolen Realm has the potential to solidify its place as a real gem in the realm of tactical RPGs.
Score: 7.8/10
Press Play Media 