Game: Idylls of the Lunar Maria
Genre: Early Access, Adventure, Puzzle
System: Steam (Windows, macOS, SteamOS+Linux)
Developers | Publishers: Charlie Batten
Controller Support: No
Price: US $8.99 | UK £7.49 | EU € 8,79
Release Date: July 27th, 2024
A review code was provided; many thanks to Charlie Batten.
Idylls of the Lunar Maria is a charming “match-3 builder” roguelite adventure. We start by choosing between three characters. Each has its own story, which includes many battles with monsters and some quirky and funny dialogue.
The Gameplay of Idylls of the Lunar Maria
The battles are structured around the classic match-3 puzzle. At the beginning of each level, we are given instructions on which combinations will make damage against the monster and which combinations to avoid since we’ll be the ones taking damage. Inside the match-3 puzzle, we also have some elements of merging puzzles – when matched, some objects evolve into new objects, which can also be matched. As the game progresses, some of the combinations are used to heal or create shields and cast spells.
While the game is a match-3 puzzle, it has a variation from the classic version—in Idylls of the Lunar Maria, we can move objects, even if they are not immediately matched with other objects. This allows us to strategize and plan our next moves.
With each level, we also collect coins, which can be used in the shop to buy charms and upgrades. While at first glance, Idylls of the Lunar Maria seemed like an easy game where you can fly through the levels, it quickly turned out that thinking about moves and strategy was quite significant. Some of the monsters can call for reinforcements. Also, while trying to make a correct combination, it is easy to make a wrong one and take damage.
Idylls of the Lunar Maria offers two modes of play, Story mode or Endless mode. Losing a battle doesn’t reset our progress- we can go back to the main menu and continue. That way, we also keep the earned coins.
Another element of the gameplay is talking to characters we meet. The dialogues are basic, with silly humor, that I personally didn’t care much about.
In terms of art style, Idylls of the Lunar Maria looks like a children’s watercolor or crayon drawing. It’s not my preferred style, but I can see why some people might like it. All in all, it looks good, if somewhat unpolished.
Some Other Things
Idylls of the Lunar Maria has a demo available to try on its Steam page. The game also has Steam achievements but no trading cards as of yet. It also has basic audio settings and a fullscreen toggle of/on.
Conclusion
Idylls of the Lunar Maria might be a good entry-level game for young players. They might appreciate the game’s style, story, and humor. For older players, the game might be a little too basic, albeit very cute and cozy.
Final Verdict: I Like it. 
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