Thronefall Emerges as a Crown Jewel in Indie Gaming
A Little Kingdom with Big Ambitions
Early Access Review
last updated Nov 16, 2023
Thronefall manages to weave strategic depth into a deceptively simple aesthetic, proving minimalism can have maximum impact.
Command and Conquer in Pajamas
Embrace the thrill of overseeing your pixel dominion with 'Thronefall,' where the essence of gameplay is as tried-and-true as the old school tower defense formula, but with a tasty twist of RTS. The game lures you into a false sense of security with its minimalist approach, then slaps you with the gauntlet of strategic depth as you become the overlord of your very own micro kingdom. It's the kind of game where you find yourself breezing through the first few levels before you hit the metaphorical wall of difficulty - and boy, does it hit back. The modifiers feature is a spicy addition, offering a tailor-made challenge for gluttons for punishment, more sadistic than a mime at a talking contest.
Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark
The game's audio is a commendably harmonious affair, blending subtle notes of medieval fanfare with the exhilarating clash of pixellated steel. The music score sets a lush backdrop that could make even the mundane act of tax collection seem epic. Sound effects follow suit, providing a satisfying 'ka-ching' with every coin dropped, ensuring every gold hoarding moment feels like Scrooge McDuck diving into his money pit. The overall auditory experience is so immersive, it almost makes one forgive the occasional slog that is the mid-late game grind.
Pixelated Panoramas & Performance
In an era where hyper-realism is all the rage, 'Thronefall' stands defiant with its decidedly minimalist, yet charming 3D voxel art style. The aesthetic is a love letter to retro gaming without succumbing to the same tired 8-bit trend. Performance-wise, this game is smoother than a buttered-up otter sliding down a rainbow. The graphics and animations are crisp and cleanly executed, enhancing the gameplay experience without distracting from the kingdom-building task at hand. However, this quaint visual feast doesn't come without its minor annoyances; some players have reported isolated issues with unit AI and collision detection that can, on rare occasions, thwart strategic genius.
Building a Legacy One Brick at a Time
For those who fancy themselves as the next digital Caesar, 'Thronefall' offers an intricate eco-sim that's impressive despite its outward simplicity. The importance of strategy can't be overstated, as this pint-sized conqueror requires thoughtful planning and resource management that would put even the most civ-savvy veterans on their toes. Where some might crave the ability to place structures willy-nilly, the designated build spots in 'Thronefall' mean players need to think three steps ahead – like chess, but with more barbarians and less brooding. The bounded creativity might be a thorn for some, but it just amplifies the challenge for the rest of us.
The Crescendo of Updates
A standing ovation is due for the developers who are toiling away to flesh out this gem with new content and quality of life updates that some AAA titles could only dream of. The commitment to extend the game's longevity is evident, with each new update eagerly anticipated by a growing fan base. It's the kind of post-launch support that makes indie aficionados misty-eyed, ensuring players stay locked in an endearing gaming embrace that's as comforting as a hot cup of cocoa in a snowstorm.
EARLY ACCESS RATING
Developer & Publisher
GrizzlyGames
Early Accesss Release Date
August 02, 2023
The Glorious Verdict
With its intricate balancing of simplicity and complexity, 'Thronefall' shines as a testament to indie gaming done right. While it has room to grow in content and AI finetuning, the foundation is rock-solid, promising hours of enjoyment for both the casual strategists and hardcore tower defenders. For its asking price, the game presents an offer that feels more like a royal decree—declare your fealty and be rewarded with gaming riches; ignore it, and miss out on the indie scene's crowning glory. 'Thronefall' might not have invented the wheel, but it sure as heck roll it out in style.
