Info about Montabi: Official game description: Meet the Montabi ================ Choose your favorite of the 22 starters and start battling! Since each evolutionary line has a unique deck, your playstyle options are endless. Join Our Discord ================ **Discord Perks** ----------------- * Get a first look at development updates, balance patches, and upcoming changes. * Talk strategy, share feedback, and connect with the developers and other players. * Share your builds, fan art, and more to be featured in Community Showcase posts. About the Game ============== **A Creature-Collector Roguelike Deckbuilding Game.** Assemble your team of Montabi to outsmart the bad guys and save the city! **Build your Montabi team!** ---------------------------- If you're going to be the big hero and save the city, you've gotta get some Montabi! Each Montabi has a unique set of skills, giving you endless combinations for team synergies. Collect equipment and charms and utilize them to chart the path to victory!  **Evolve and draft new skills!** -------------------------------- Train your Montabi to grow stronger, unlocking new moves to enhance your team's strategy. As they level up, your Montabi evolve into more powerful forms, gaining new card abilities and expanding your tactical options. If you work together, there's nothing you and your Montabi can't achieve! **Outsmart your opponents!** ---------------------------- Deploy your best strategies to beat up the bad guys in a unique 3x3 grid-based system. With every Montabi's unique abilities, you'll have endless options to outthink the competition and win the day. Just make sure you rest up at a cafe every now and then to recover those hit points! **Choose your Trainer!** ------------------------ Select from diverse trainers, each with a unique playstyle. Do you wanna put your team in the perfect position, get right up in their faces and duke it out, or buff up your Montabi with a hearty meal? When the city's at stake, everyone pitches in! Just make sure to stay safe! Like the king in chess, if your trainer is defeated, the game ends. Features: --------- * Collect and Fight with over 60 Montabi! * Evolve your Montabi into more powerful companions! * Combine different Montabi into a strong, synergistic team! * Strategize on the tactical 3x3 battlemap! * Beat down the big bad boss of the local X Gang! * Check out all the city has to offer in over 30 randomized events! Release date: Aug 6, 2026 Categories: Deckbuilding, Roguelike, Monster Collecting, Grid-based Combat, Turn-based Tactical, Character Progression, Team Synergy - Hardware Profile: No data Feature extractions: - Community Price: No data - Playtime Metrics: - Game completion: N/A - Story completion: N/A - Session length: 3.0h - Endgame: N/A - Reasoning: The only clear session length metric comes from a player who lost track of time and played for three hours in one sitting. The 100+ hours claim is about overall content rather than personal completion time, and the other quotes report short initial play sessions (around one hour) without indicating total playtime, completion, story completion, or endgame depth. - Time-to-fun: - Summary: The game hooks players from the start with smooth, addictive gameplay and satisfying progression, despite a steep learning curve and slow early pacing that do not prevent immediate enjoyment. - Stance: Fun immediately - Anchor: N/A - Time to anchor: N/A - Friction: steep learning curve; slow early pacing - Unlock drivers: N/A - Conditions: N/A - Player Archetypes: - Tactical Deckbuilding Veterans (buy) - Motivation: Strategic depth and tactical synergy in a roguelite deckbuilder - Playstyle: Optimizes team composition and positioning on a grid to synergize unit abilities - Experience: veteran - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: Slay the Spire; Megaman Battle Network; Pokémon - Genre Newcomers (buy) - Motivation: Accessible and addictive entry point into deckbuilding games - Playstyle: Explorative learning and repeated play due to high engagement - Experience: newcomer - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: first-time player; newbie - Reference games: N/A - Pokémon-Style Collectors (buy) - Motivation: Collecting and discovering diverse creatures with unique abilities - Playstyle: Focuses on acquiring new Montabi and exploring their distinct playstyles - Experience: mixed - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: Pokémon Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category. Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews. What players like: - Deckbuilding praised as brilliant (weight 0.52): Players frequently highlight the game's engaging deckbuilding mechanics, often describing it as a brilliant and refreshing twist on the genre. Combined with tactical combat, the blend feels fresh and well-executed. - Highly addictive gameplay experience (weight 0.45): Many players find the game highly addictive, with several mentioning that it becomes incredibly engaging once the mechanics click. It is repeatedly described as 'addictive' in both the short and long term. - Visuals and art style praised (weight 0.44): The game's visuals receive consistent praise, with reviewers calling the graphics nice, the art beautiful and charming, and even gorgeous. The artistic direction is a standout positive aspect. - Variety of collectible Montabi (weight 0.32): Reviewers highlight the wide variety of Montabi to collect and the overall creature-collection element, which adds significant replay value. The sheer amount of content and collectibles is noted as a major strength. - Audio and music evoke nostalgia (weight 0.3): The audio, including music and sound effects, is praised for evoking arcade nostalgia and being cool. Charming animations and music contribute to the overall appeal. - Compelling and fun gameplay overall (weight 0.28): The game is described as fun and engaging, compelling based on the trailer and demo, and surprisingly fun overall. Reviewers see potential with future updates, suggesting ongoing interest. - Works well on Steam Deck (weight 0.28): The game works well on Steam Deck, allowing for portable play. Players find it easy to lose track of time, with a strong desire to keep playing and satisfying synergies to discover. - Satisfying and varied progression (weight 0.25): Progression is described as satisfying, with each run feeling different and rewarding. Reviewers note that the variety keeps battles fresh and encourages continued play. - Fresh strategies and team synergy (weight 0.25): Players appreciate the fresh strategies enabled by different equipment, charms, and teams. The team-building aspect is described as a satisfying puzzle, with countless synergies and combinations to explore. - Beginner-friendly UI with deep mechanics (weight 0.23): The game is considered easy to learn but hard to master, with a beginner-friendly UI. Reviewers also described it as a well-thought-out game, balancing accessibility with depth. - Evolution system is meaningful (weight 0.23): The evolution system is highlighted as a neat and meaningful mechanic, with specific evolutions like Loneffen and Hydrignis described as cool and imposing. This adds a layer of depth to creature collection. - Smooth animations and unit swap (weight 0.23): Smooth animations are often praised, making the gameplay enjoyable and visually pleasant. The multiple unit swap mechanic is also noted as a fun feature that adds strategic options. - Fresh genre combination praised (weight 0.23): The combination of genres is seen as a fresh twist and a must-try for fans of mixed genres. It also works as a cozy yet challenging roguelike, appealing to a wide range of players. Common complaints: - Steep learning curve (weight 0.26): The onset of the game is sluggish due to the steep learning curve and dense mechanics, making it hard for new players to get into. This is a common complaint from early-game reviews. - Complex card descriptions (weight 0.19): Card descriptions are intricate and take time to understand, contributing to the overall initial confusion. Players need more time to grasp the card mechanics, which might feel overwhelming. - Move card shortage (weight 0.11): Runs can end because players don't take enough move cards to position properly, suggesting a balance issue with card availability. This can feel unfair and hinder progression. - Wants more areas (weight 0.1): Players feel the game could benefit from more areas, indicating that the current map or environment variety is insufficient. This could reduce replay value and exploration appeal. - Needs unexpected content (weight 0.1): The game lacks unexpected content, making runs feel predictable and less exciting. Adding surprises could enhance player engagement. - Confusing range system (weight 0.1): The range system is initially confusing, as players don't understand how to calculate effective distance. Better tutorials or explanations could easily fix this. - Unclear text (weight 0.09): Some in-game text is unclear, which might confuse players about objectives or formatting. Clear instructions could improve overall experience. Gameplay feedback: - Hybrid card and creature game (weight 0.97): Players consistently describe the game as a blend of roguelike deckbuilding, creature collecting, and card-based tactical combat, emphasizing its hybrid nature. It combines elements from various genres to create a unique strategic experience. - Challenging strategic gameplay (weight 0.83): Multiple reviews note the game's strategic depth, with turn-based mechanics, tactical positioning, and careful planning being central to gameplay. The emphasis on thinking and calculating damage suggests a high-skill ceiling. - Monster capturing and deckbuilding (weight 0.61): The creature collecting aspect is prominently featured, with players taming monsters and each captured creature having its own deck. This combines collection with strategic deckbuilding, appealing to fans of monster-taming games. - Emphasis on team synergy (weight 0.51): Team synergy is a major theme, with many reviews mentioning the importance of combining different Montabi and their unique decks to create powerful effects. This adds a layer of optimization and experimentation. - Leveling and evolution system (weight 0.4): Progression through leveling up and evolving creatures is a core feature, with evolutions unlocking new cards and abilities. This adds a sense of growth and customization to each Montabi. - Grid tactics with positioning (weight 0.4): The game's grid-based combat, typically a 3x3 grid, focuses on positioning and movement mechanics that are crucial to battle strategy. This tactical layer is repeatedly highlighted as a key differentiator. - Individual decks for each creature (weight 0.38): Each Montabi has its own individual deck, which is built through leveling and can be customized. This adds depth to deck management and encourages building specialized decks for each creature. - Multi-unit control and swapping (weight 0.38): Players control multiple units, typically three on the field with three in reserve, and can swap them in and out during battle. This multi-unit control and unit manipulation is a core strategic element. - Rewarding combo system (weight 0.38): The combo system is praised, with many reviews noting the satisfaction of discovering powerful combinations and achieving large damage numbers. This is a key gameplay loop that encourages experimentation. - Trainer and character variety (weight 0.31): The game includes trainer-like characters with distinct fighting styles, similar to Pokémon or Digimon, and players can set up formations and mix match characters. This adds variety and personalization. - Variety compensates for slow start (weight 0.3): Some players note that the early game pacing is slow, but the variety of items and Montabi compensates for it. The large selection of effects and companions keeps the gameplay engaging. - Equipment and charm mechanics (weight 0.25): Equipment such as charms and pendants add another layer of customization, though their descriptions are sometimes complex. Players can gather charms from various locations to boost team synergy. - Crucial trainer positioning (weight 0.25): Trainer positioning is crucial, as the game ends if the trainer's HP reaches zero, and cards have limited ranges. This makes positioning and protecting the trainer a key strategic goal. - Grinding and continued play (weight 0.17): Players can grind and continue playing, which is a positive for those who enjoy long-term progression. This allows for extended gameplay and mastery of the game's systems. - Multiple difficulty options (weight 0.17): The game offers various levels of difficulty, catering to different player preferences. This allows players to tailor the challenge to their skill level. - Potential one-shot tactic (weight 0.16): Some players discovered a tactic called 'cheapway' that can one-shot enemies, potentially indicating a balance issue. However, it also highlights the depth of the combo system. Performance notes: No performancepoints Recommendations: - Positive overall recommendation (weight 0.54): Across all clusters, reviewers give positive recommendations, noting the game is worth trying for various audiences including roguelike, strategy, survival, and indie game fans. The overall sentiment is highly favorable. - Appeals to multiple genres (weight 0.31): Reviewers specifically mention enjoyment for fans of Pokemon, Slay the Spire, and turn-based roguelike card games. This suggests the game successfully combines collectible creatures with deck-building mechanics. - Recommended for genre fans (weight 0.2): Multiple reviewers explicitly recommend the game to fans of creature collectors, card battlers, and cozy yet challenging tactical roguelikes. The feedback highlights its appeal to players of Pokemon, Slay the Spire, and similar genres. Other player notes: - Frequently compared to classics (weight 0.41): Multiple reviewers compare the game to Slay the Spire, Megaman Battle Network, and Pokémon, indicating similar gameplay elements in roguelike deckbuilding and monster collection. This suggests the game will attract fans of those franchises. - Offers extensive game content (weight 0.19): Reviewers note that the game provides more than 100 hours of content, indicating substantial replay value and depth. This is a positive aspect for players seeking long-term engagement. - Creature designs praised (weight 0.11): A reviewer states that the creature designs surpass recent Pokémon designs. This is a high compliment, suggesting the monster aesthetics are a standout feature. - Scored 8.5 out of 10 (weight 0.1): One reviewer assigns a score of 8.5 out of 10, indicating a generally positive reception. This structured rating helps quantify the game's quality. - Unique monster inspirations (weight 0.1): Monsters are inspired by a mix of animals, food, and everyday objects, leading to unique and creative creature designs. This adds charm and originality to the game. - Steam Deck compatible (weight 0.09): The game is playable on Steam Deck, which is important for on-the-go gaming. This extends accessibility to a wider audience. - Comic-style visuals noted (weight 0.08): The game features comic-style visuals, which may appeal to fans of that art direction. This aesthetic choice helps differentiate the game visually. - Fans want collectible toys (weight 0.08): There is expressed desire for collectible toys based on the game's world and monsters, indicating strong attachment to the IP and potential merchandise appeal. - Developer is Indonesian (weight 0.07): The developer is Indonesian, which might interest players looking to support diverse indie devs. It also contextualizes the game's cultural influences. Emotions: - Enjoyment (weight 0.18): Players found joy in the blend of deckbuilding and grid-based tactics, along with creature evolution and synergy mechanics. The cute art style, smooth animations, and cheerful colors contributed to a satisfying and addictive experience, especially for those who connected with specific Montabi designs. - Excitement (weight 0.14): Excitement stemmed from the game's fresh take on monster collecting, combining it with deckbuilding and tactical combat. Discovering powerful combos, big damage numbers, and numerous team synergies fueled anticipation for more strategic experimentation and variety. - Admiration (weight 0.07): Players admired the beautiful, charming art and the well-thought-out gameplay that requires strategic setup and formation. The distinct visual identity and depth of mechanics earned genuine respect and appreciation. - Frustration (weight 0.05): Frustration arose mainly from runs ending due to a lack of move cards and a steep learning curve as players struggled to master multiple decks and mechanics. The difficulty curve often felt punishing, especially early on. - Satisfaction (weight 0.05): Satisfaction came from the strategic depth and rewarding synergies when multiple decks combined effectively. The polished battle experience, enhanced by impactful VFX and SFX, made executing combos feel genuinely fulfilling. - Amazement (weight 0.05): Players were astonished by the fresh twist of merging roguelike deckbuilding with creature collecting and the sheer depth and volume of content. The amount of variety and strategic possibilities exceeded expectations. - Addicted (weight 0.04): The addictive pull came from the collectible and strategic turn-based gameplay that kept players engaged and eager to start another run. The desire to try different strategies and see more combinations made it hard to stop playing. - Surprise (weight 0.04): Surprise was triggered by how quickly time passed due to the engaging gameplay and the unexpected depth of combat and unique mechanics. Players found themselves absorbed in the experience beyond what they anticipated. - Fun (weight 0.04): The core fun derived from the deckbuilding and grid tactics, with the multiple-unit swap mechanic adding a unique and enjoyable twist. This combination kept gameplay fresh and entertaining. - Appreciation (weight 0.04): Appreciation grew from recognizing the love and care poured into the game, evident in its art and audio quality. Players felt that the developers' dedication translated into a polished and heartfelt experience. - Excited (weight 0.04): Excitement specifically came from discovering and executing combos in the deckbuilder, where the gameplay clicked and strategies unfolded. This moment of synergy fueled enthusiasm and motivation to explore further. - Confusion (weight 0.04): Confusion was common due to the range system and the overwhelming number of effects and Montabi options at the start. Players needed time to grasp the mechanics before the game's systems became clear. - Anticipation (weight 0.04): Anticipation stemmed from the learning curve that promised fun once understood, along with hopes for future updates and new rosters. Players were eager to see the game evolve and expand. - Addiction (weight 0.04): The game proved inherently addictive, with players noting that once everything clicked, the experience became incredibly engrossing. The combination of mechanics created a compelling feedback loop that kept them coming back. - Satisfied (weight 0.02): Satisfaction was particularly notable because the turn-based gameplay allowed players to play while working, seamlessly fitting into their schedules. This flexible pace made the experience more enjoyable and manageable. - Disappointment (weight 0.02): Disappointment arose from a desire for more areas and unexpected content, wanting the game to expand beyond its current scope. Players felt that additional variety would enhance long-term engagement. - Nostalgia (weight 0.02): Nostalgia was evoked by the art and soundtrack, which reminded players of classic monster-collecting games. This sense of familiarity added a layer of emotional connection to the experience. - Hopeful (weight 0.02): Hopefulness centered on the prospect of future content updates, signaling a belief that the developer would continue to support and grow the game. Players looked forward to what might come next. - Charm (weight 0.02): The game's charm came from its polished animations and music, which were widely appreciated. These elements combined to create an appealing and memorable atmosphere. - Mild frustration (weight 0.02): Mild frustration was due to the early game pacing feeling slow, which temporarily dampened the experience. Once past this phase, the pace improved, but the initial slowness was noticeable.}