Having a new generation of heroes trying to take back the world two decades after evil has triumphed sounds like a setup for a Marvel outing, but it’s actually the premise for Capes, a turn-based strategy game developed by Spitfire Interactive and published by Daedalic Entertainment. Available on major systems including the PlayStation 5, Capes combines strategic depth with a compelling narrative, though it has a few rough edges as well.
The premise of Capes sets a gripping stage for the action. In a dystopian city where superpowers are now outlawed, a band of heroes must now overthrow the villains who have maintained their grip for two decades. From there, the story unfolds through a mix of campaign and patrol missions, allowing players to delve deeper into the backstories and motivations of their heroes. The narrative is engaging, drawing players into a world where hope is scarce but something people cling to nonetheless – and it’s nice to see a superhero title that doesn’t cling to Marvel/DC IP as well.
Gameplay in Capes revolves around strategic, turn-based combat, where each hero brings unique abilities and playstyles to the battlefield. The game emphasizes teamwork and positioning, encouraging players to exploit the synergies between their heroes. Each mission allows players to take up to four heroes from their roster, each benefiting from unique team-up abilities with the allies you choose for the mission. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy as players must consider the best combinations to tackle various enemy types and supervillains. It also means there’s a learning curve here, and you’re likely to make different choices on a future playthrough.
One of the standout features of Capes is its approach to combat. Unlike many turn-based strategy games, Capes does not rely on random numbers or cover mechanics. Instead, it focuses on the player’s choices and the strategic use of each hero’s abilities. This design choice ensures that victories feel earned and losses serve as valuable lessons rather than a roll of the dice, though it’ll take some getting used to.
You’ll also find that, while the combat system is refreshing, it can also be unforgiving. The game’s difficulty spikes can be daunting, particularly in later missions where the complexity of enemy abilities and the necessity for specific positioning can lead to frustration. Additionally, the leveling system, which requires completing specific objectives and challenges to gain skill points, can feel like a bit of a grind at times, potentially hindering the pacing of the game. Again, this ties into the learning curve, and second attempts are generally much smoother in Capes.
Visually, Capes presents a vibrant and detailed world, though it occasionally falls short in terms of polish compared to something like 2K’s Midnight Suns. Character models and environments are generally well-designed, but some animations and textures can still appear dated. The audio experience is solid, with a fitting soundtrack and commendable voice acting that help bring the story and characters to life.
The controls on the PlayStation 5 are intuitive and responsive, making the strategic gameplay accessible even for players new to the genre. The interface is clean and functional, ensuring that players can easily manage their heroes’ abilities and upgrades without feeling overwhelmed. Yet, some players might still find that learning curve to be too steep, especially when it comes to mastering the unique playstyles of each hero and their synergies.
In conclusion, Capes offers a compelling and strategic superhero experience that stands out in the turn-based strategy genre, carving out an identity of its own. Its engaging narrative, unique combat mechanics, and options to mix things up make it a worthwhile title for fans of the genre. However, its difficulty spikes, occasional grind, and minor visual and audio issues may detract from the overall experience for some players. Despite these flaws, Capes succeeds in delivering a heroic adventure that challenges players to think strategically with a fresh batch of superheroes.
Score: 7.2/10
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