ANTHEM#9 Review Summary

High replayability and depth: The game offers high replayability with its deep gameplay mechanics, including deck strengthening and character-specific abilities. Players can enjoy the game in various modes and difficulties, making it suitable for both casual and hardcore players.

Unique and engaging combat system: The game features a unique combat system where players combine three colored gems to activate skills. The order and combination of gem usage determine the actions taken, requiring strategic planning and quick decision-making. The combat is described as fun, aggressive, and well-balanced, with a high replay value.

Stylish and appealing presentation: The game is praised for its stylish and appealing presentation, including colorful and stylish graphics, a great soundtrack, and enjoyable character designs. The overall aesthetic and flavor of the game are highlighted as major strengths.

Innovative take on the roguelike genre: The game is praised for its unique and interesting take on the roguelike genre, combining deck-building and puzzle elements. This innovation sets it apart from other games in the genre and adds to its appeal.

Well-optimized for Steam Deck: The game is noted to work well on the Steam Deck, indicating good optimization and compatibility with the platform. This makes it a solid choice for players using the Steam Deck.

Lack of achievement and enjoyment: Players reported a lack of sense of achievement and difficulty in finding enjoyment in the game. This is due to various factors including poor user experience and lack of exhilarating moments.

Poorly explained mechanics: Many players found the game mechanics, particularly the relic system, to be poorly explained. This lack of clarity made the initial hours of gameplay confusing and frustrating.

Enemy and combat issues: There were complaints about certain enemies and combat mechanics. Enemies with abilities to erase or change the color of gems were found frustrating, and the lack of tooltips for enemy abilities was also criticized.

User experience issues: The user experience was criticized for being poor, with specific issues such as the lack of a pause/reset menu and the screen remaining unchanged in certain situations.

Character and story limitations: Players felt that the game lacked substance in its story and characters. The story was criticized for being shallow, and the limited number of characters was seen as insufficient for the game's price point.

Deck-building roguelike elements: The game incorporates deck-building mechanics similar to 'Slay the Spire,' with progression systems, charm systems, and mission-based structures that enhance the roguelike experience.

Gem-based combat mechanics: The game features a unique combat system where players use sequences of three-colored gems to activate skills. The order and combination of gem usage determine the actions and strategies available during turn-based battles.

Turn-based combat with depth: Combat is turn-based and involves strategic planning, combo bonuses, and risk-reward mechanics. Players must manage their decks and predict enemy actions to succeed.

Character-specific abilities and missions: There are three characters, each with unique abilities and four missions. Character-specific skills and buffs add variety and depth to the gameplay.

Strategic enemy action cancellation: Players can cancel enemy actions by depleting a 'Posture' gauge, adding a layer of strategy to combat. This mechanic requires precise timing and resource management.

Performance and readability: Players appreciate the game running at 60 FPS and having readable text, which enhances the overall gaming experience.

Try the demo first: Many players suggest trying the free demo before purchasing the game to see if it meets your expectations.