No Rest for the Wicked: A Visceral Challenge
An early dip into Moon Studios' latest offering
Early Access Review
last updated Apr 24, 2024
From its punishing combat to its mesmerizing audio-visual combo, the game secures its place as a notable entry in the action RPG genre.
The Forge of Combat
No Rest for the Wicked throws you into the deep end from the get-go. The game's combat is a tantalizing blend of hair-pulling difficulty and ecstatic triumph, reminiscent of the first time you ever beat a boss in a Souls game. Weapons, while expansive in variety, have this pesky tendency to deteriorate faster than a sandcastle at high tide, adding a layer of strategy to your crusades. You'll find yourself meticulously planning your routes on a map that seems to have been drawn by a caffeinated cartographer. Despite that, the thrills in overcoming bosses and the evolving gameplay more than redeem these points of contention.
An Acoustic Journey
Let's talk sound—this is where No Rest for the Wicked truly shines. The atmospheric melodies are so captivating, you almost forget about the controller you just hurled across the room. The auditory experience is akin to a meticulously crafted symphony, where each stroke of brilliance is accompanied by an equally impactful silence. The sound design isn't just good; it's a character of its own, escorting you through each challenge with a grace akin to a ballroom dance. It's a testament to the developers' attention to detail and understanding of their craft.
A Painted World
Visually, No Rest for the Wicked is a masterclass in indie art direction. The game operates with a 'living painting' style that is as breathtaking as it is unique. However, this beauty does come at a cost, with players experiencing performance issues intense enough to turn your high-end rig into a glorified paperweight at times. Despite these occasional technical hiccups, the game's aesthetics from character design to environmental storytelling, remain awe-inspiring. It's clear that Moon Studios continues to leverage their exceptional talent pool of artists to bring this vibrant world to life.
Innovative Yet Familiar
It's evident that Moon Studios aimed to blend elements from both ARPGs and Souls-like games, creating a concoction that feels both familiar and fresh. The game boasts an array of systems, from crafting to town-building, which might leave you feeling like the mayor of a town that exclusively houses deadly monsters. While some may argue the game tries to juggle too many gameplay mechanics, this amalgamation adds depth and variety to the experience. The frequent updates and patches show a commendable dedication to improvement from the devs, promising an even smoother experience ahead.
EARLY ACCESS RATING
Developer
Moon Studios GmbH
Publisher
Private Division
Early Accesss Release Date
April 18, 2024
The Verdict
No Rest for the Wicked is a title that promises much and delivers in heaping doses. Despite being in the throes of early access, there's enough substance here to lose yourself in for hours. From its punishing combat to its mesmerizing audio-visual combo, the game secures its place as a notable entry in the action RPG genre. While performance issues and a steep learning curve may deter some, those willing to brave its intensity will find a rewarding experience. Suffice to say, if you're a fan of getting knocked down and getting up again, this game might just be your next addiction.