Ravenswatch, developed by Passtech Games and published by Nacon, blends roguelike gameplay with a unique twist on iconic fairy tales and legends. Following the success of Curse of the Dead Gods, Passtech brings its gameplay style to a darker narrative, challenging players to restore the corrupted world of Reverie. After debuting on PC earlier, the game’s PlayStation 5 release offers console players the chance to experience its intricate mechanics and compelling aesthetic.
At its core, Ravenswatch thrives on its premise of reimagining beloved fairy tale characters in darker, more violent roles – in some ways much like the original stories were told, but with their own twist. Heroes like Little Red Riding Hood, afflicted with lycanthropy, and the Snow Queen, wielding ominous powers, offer intriguing takes on familiar stories. This darker tone is reinforced by the overarching struggle against the Nightmare, an evil force that has corrupted the dreamlike world of Reverie. While the narrative is rich with potential, its episodic delivery across runs might feel fragmented for those looking for a more cohesive, linear story.
The gameplay is classic roguelike fare, emphasizing replayability and progression through procedurally generated maps. Players have three in-game days to build their characters by completing quests, defeating enemies, and gathering resources before facing a boss. Each character’s unique abilities and playstyle add depth, encouraging experimentation with synergies and strategies. The variety of upgrades and talents allows for creative builds, though the randomized nature of items can sometimes hinder progress if luck isn’t on your side during a particular run.
Combat is fast-paced and engaging, requiring players to balance offensive power with defensive awareness. The controls on PlayStation 5 are responsive, translating the fluidity of movement and attacks well to the DualSense controller. However, solo players may find the difficulty curve steep, as the game was also designed with co-op in mind. Coordination with friends enhances the experience, allowing for synergistic playstyles that make battles against bosses and hordes of enemies more manageable – although it’s a shame that local co-op isn’t an option.
Visually, Ravenswatch employs a striking comic book-inspired aesthetic that brings its dark fantasy world to life. The environments, ranging from enchanted forests to eerie marshes, are full of detail, though the maps can start to feel repetitive over time. The audio design complements the visuals, with atmospheric music and sound effects that amplify the tension and excitement during combat. Each character’s voice work adds personality, further immersing players in the twisted fairytale world of Reverie.
While Ravenswatch offers high replayability with its diverse cast, randomized upgrades, and multiple difficulty levels, it occasionally stumbles in its balancing. Some characters feel significantly stronger than others, and the reliance on RNG for key items can lead to frustrating runs. That said, the game’s commitment to regular updates promises to address these concerns over time, making the update log one to watch.
In conclusion, Ravenswatch is a compelling roguelike that combines dark fantasy storytelling with challenging and rewarding gameplay. Its reimagined fairy tale characters and co-op focus make it a standout title for fans of the genre, even if its difficulty and reliance on luck might deter newcomers. For those who enjoy high-stakes battles and uncovering dark tales, Ravenswatch is an engaging, atmospheric experience that shines brightest when played with friends.
Score: 8.1/10
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