Vault of the Void Review Summary

Excellent roguelike deckbuilder with addictive gameplay comparable to Slay the Spire, but suffers from overly complex mechanics, a steep learning curve, and frequent crashes.

Excellent roguelike deckbuilder overall: Players consistently praise the game as a top-tier deckbuilding roguelike, often comparing it favorably to Slay the Spire. Multiple reviews describe it as a masterpiece with deep mechanics and high replayability.

Comparable or better than Slay the Spire: Many players find this game to be on par with or superior to Slay the Spire, citing reduced RNG, more depth, and a unique identity. It is often called a true successor to the genre's benchmark.

Flexible deck changes between battles: The ability to modify the deck between fights is a standout feature, letting players adapt to upcoming challenges. This flexibility is frequently mentioned as a key advantage over other deckbuilders.

Engaging and addictive gameplay: The core gameplay loop is described as fun, addictive, and top-notch, with strong visuals and overall polish. Players find the game both enjoyable and satisfying over long sessions.

High replayability and content depth: Reviewers note immense replay value due to varied mechanics, unlockables, and challenge options. The game offers endless builds and multiple ways to keep each run fresh.

Game is overly complex and unintuitive: Multiple clusters highlight that the game's complexity and lack of intuitiveness make it difficult to pick up and understand. The convoluted gameplay systems and poor intuitiveness confuse players initially.

Very steep learning curve: Several clusters mention a steep learning curve due to many rules and keywords, making the game harder to learn compared to similar titles. This is a common barrier for new players.

Not beginner friendly: The complexity and numerous concepts make the game difficult for newer players to get into. It is less approachable and harder to pick up than other games in the genre.

Less appealing than Slay the Spire: The game's worldbuilding, presentation, and elegance are seen as inferior to Slay the Spire, and it lacks the simplicity and appeal of that title. This comparison negatively affects its reception.

Runs last too long: Players report that runs can last anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, which is considered too long for a game session. This length may discourage repeated playthroughs.

Discard cards for energy: Players can discard cards from hand to gain energy, a core resource mechanic. This allows strategic sacrifices for more actions.

Roguelike deckbuilder gameplay: The game is a roguelike deckbuilder resembling Slay the Spire. It features card-based combat and randomized runs.

Similar to Slay the Spire: Players frequently compare the game to Slay the Spire, noting similarities but also unique twists. It's often described as more complex or skill-expressive.

Cards and energy persist: Unused cards and energy carry over between turns, allowing long-term planning. This deviates from typical deckbuilders.

Socket void stones into cards: Cards can be enhanced by embedding void stones, which add effects and customization. This provides a deep modding system.

Frequent crashes and instability: Multiple players mention frequent crashes, random crashes, and general instability, making the game difficult to play reliably.

Steam Deck performance varies: Players report that the game works perfectly on Steam Deck, but others experience bugs. This inconsistency suggests compatibility issues that need addressing.

Game fails to launch: One player reports the game does not start at all. This is a critical issue preventing gameplay entirely.

Second monitor resolution issue: A player encountered a resolution problem when using a second monitor, which may affect multi-display setups.

Runs on low-end hardware: One player confirms the game runs on low-end hardware, which is positive feedback for accessibility and optimization.

Recommended for card game fans: Multiple reviewers recommend the game to fans of card games, deckbuilders, and strategy games. This is the most common theme, with strong positive endorsements for the target audience.

Great for roguelike deckbuilder fans: Players who enjoy roguelike deckbuilders, especially those seeking more depth and challenge, are highly encouraged to try the game. It is often compared favorably to titles like Slay the Spire.

Strong general recommendations: Some reviewers give unqualified strong recommendations, urging players to buy the game without hesitation. This reflects high overall satisfaction and confidence in the product.

Appeals to Slay the Spire fans: The game is frequently recommended to fans of Slay the Spire and Monster Train, with some noting it offers less randomness and more strategic depth. It is seen as a natural next step for players after those games.

Not for beginners: Several reviewers caution that the game has a high skill floor and is not suitable for newcomers to the genre or casual players. It is best enjoyed by experienced or hardcore players.

Community fair range: $10.00 - $15.00.

Session length: 2.5h.

Vault of the Void presents a steep learning curve and overwhelming tutorial, but once players grasp its core mechanics and master character systems, the game becomes deeply satisfying and rewarding.

Friction: steep learning curve; complex mechanics; overwhelming tutorial; core Purge mechanic confusion; tedious early runs.

Unlock drivers: completing tutorial; persisting through first runs; understanding core mechanics; mastering character mechanics; experimenting with combos.

Genre Veteran: Methodical, analytical, adapts to complex systems and synergies. Motivation: To find a deeper, more rewarding deckbuilding challenge that evolves the genre. Stance: buy.

Strategic Optimizer: Meticulous, perfectionist, exploits every mechanic for maximal efficiency. Motivation: To achieve perfect runs and high scores through careful planning and optimization. Stance: buy.

Casual Finisher: Casual, plays on lower difficulties, completes one or few runs. Motivation: To enjoy a single, accessible playthrough without heavy commitment. Stance: sale.

Steam Deck: Vault of the Void is officially Verified for Steam Deck and runs without crashes or technical barriers. Users praise its compatibility and portability, requiring no tinkering.

Linux and Proton: Based on the single user review available, the game is reported as Steam Deck Verified, suggesting excellent Linux/Proton performance with no reported issues or required tweaks.

External guides: User feedback indicates a strong reliance on external guides and wiki due to complex game mechanics and lack of in-game tutorials. Additionally, a technical bug and grind mechanics contribute to frustration and potential external data dependency.

Frequently compared to Slay the Spire: Many reviewers directly compare the game to Slay the Spire, noting similarities and differences in mechanics, complexity, and gameplay feel. It is often described as a more complex or rational alternative with less RNG.

Early Access but polished: Reviewers note the game is in Early Access but feels complete with substantial content and polish. It is considered ready for full release.

Rich in content: The game provides a large amount of content, including multiple classes and DLC, justifying its cost. Players appreciate the depth and replayability.

Highly praised against genre giants: Reviewers rank the game alongside Slay the Spire and Monster Train, often placing it in the top three deckbuilders. They praise its combination of strengths and unique approach.

Active developer support: The developer continuously releases updates, balance patches, and free content, showing commitment beyond initial release. This is highly valued by the community.