Avernum: Escape From the Pit

Last updated: 2025-12-14

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Summary
  • Accessible yet deep old-school RPG mechanics
  • Exceptional storytelling and world-building
  • Unique immersive underground setting
  • High replayability and value for money
  • Excessive length and repetitive content
  • Outdated and clunky gameplay mechanics
Avernum: Escape From the Pit header

Categories

Turn-based RPGParty-based CombatNon-linear ExplorationOpen-World ExplorationCharacter CustomizationGrid-based CombatStory-driven GameplayDungeon Crawler

Emotions

Satisfaction22%Excitement19%Frustration18%Joy17%Disappointment7%
Sample precision
Helpful reviews
87%
Unhelpful reviews
12%
Protest reviews
1%
Positive points
517
Negative points
253
Gameplay points
149
Perf. points
13
Rec. points
102
Misc points
46
Point
Accessible yet deep old-school RPG gameplay
Description
The game successfully balances accessibility with depth, offering a casual difficulty mode that makes it enjoyable for newcomers while retaining the complexity and strategic elements that appeal to veteran RPG players. The turn-based combat, flexible character builds, and non-linear progression are frequently highlighted as well-designed and engaging.
Importance
97%
Exceptional storytelling and world-building
Description
Players consistently praise the game's deep, immersive story, rich lore, and well-crafted world. The writing is described as top-notch, evoking nostalgia and providing a meaningful experience with branching paths, engaging dialogues, and a unique underground setting. This is a core strength of the game and a major draw for fans of classic RPGs.
Importance
89%
High replayability and value for money
Description
The game offers significant replay value through multiple endings, difficulty levels, and character build options. Players report spending 50-100+ hours on a single playthrough, with many returning to explore different paths or replay the series. The game is also praised for its affordability, providing excellent value for its price.
Importance
24%
Unique and immersive underground setting
Description
The game's subterranean world is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, offering a dystopian, immersive, and atmospheric experience. The setting is richly detailed, with unique environmental adaptations and a compelling narrative about escaping the underground.
Importance
8%
Lightweight and well-optimized
Description
The game is praised for its low system requirements, smooth performance on older hardware, and minimal bugs. This makes it accessible to a wide audience and ensures a hassle-free experience. The developer's long-term support is also noted as a positive.
Importance
8%
Quality-of-life improvements and streamlined design
Description
This version of the game addresses common genre frustrations, such as save scumming, perma-death, and hoarding, while introducing modern conveniences like a quest log, free resting, and improved inventory management. These changes enhance the overall experience without compromising the game's core identity.
Importance
7%
Dungeons and micro-dungeons enhance exploration
Description
Dungeons are praised for their variety, design, and the sense of accomplishment they provide. Micro-dungeons are also highlighted as a great way to earn quick XP and add to the game's atmosphere, reinforcing the core dungeon-crawling experience.
Importance
5%