Game: Monster Slayers
System: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Nerdook Productions
Publisher: Digerati
Age Rating: 12 (UK & EU) | T (US)
Price: £10.79 | €11,99| $11.99 (Until 5th May 2019)
Release Date: 5th April 2019
(The game is also available on Steam, Xbox One & PS4)
Review code kindly provided by Digerati
I’m not usually fond of RPG type games, but due to enjoying drop-down platformer Vertical Drop Heroes HD so much last year, I was eager to play Nerdock-Productions latest title for Nintendo Switch. Both games are different in terms of playstyle and mechanics, but I had confidence that the developer could and would impress me again. I’m happy to report that my hope was well founded.
Cleric on a Mission
The game challenges players to become the legendary Monster Slayer. At the start of each run, players can choose from a selection of hero classes, but being a man of the cloth, I incline to favour clerics over other types. Thankfully, my job doesn’t involve facing off against literal lions, giant insects, mythical creatures, or members of the undead. Other available hero types are Dragon, Rouge, Knights, Wizards, Barbarians, Rangers, and Merchants etc. Each class have their own unique weapon and attack capabilities.
Simple but addictive
The game’s premise is simple but highly addictive. Once you’ve selected your preferred monster slayer, you’re given several areas to tackle, as well as basic inventory and information/tutorial options. Also, merely moving the available pointer over each area icon gives brief details about featured monster types. This allows players to plan ahead, by using items from their inventory which are better suited against certain enemy types.
At the start of each run, character stats are low and inventory options are virtually zero apart from junk equipment. To boost your chances, you must play, level up, earn coins, purchase equipment, and boost your fame level. This, in turn, will transfer to and boost future heroes’ stats and equipment. The goal of each run is to battle, level up, and boost the prospects of upcoming monster slayers, by upgrading their rank by using upgrade points.
Card-based Combat
This is where the game truly excels. The battle system is easy to use but boasts a lot of depth. There are several card types to be aware of, these being attack, support, magic, and interrupt. The game provides a nice write up for each card type including temporary cards. The number of cards used per turn depends on your level and hand. Some cards also require the use of Action and Mana points which can be obtained through battle and upgrades. I must admit, I’m still feeling my way through the basics, but I’m gradually becoming more aware of what each card type does. The game also allows the player to choose a companion at the start of each level. Each selected companion nicely supplements your card deck, but be careful how you use them, for there usage is restricted by a set number of battles.
How will you play?
It doesn’t take long before players begin to adapt to a particular play style. I’m more of a balanced player that leans more towards defence, but others may be more attack minded. For sure, the game will challenge and force you to adapt your tactics to earn victories, particularly during later stages, but you’re never forced to conform to any particular method. Tactics will differ also depending on the types of slayer you choose.
Overall
Nerdock-Productions have done it again! They’ve created a Rogue-Like RPG which is fun, fast-paced, well designed, and highly addictive. My only quibble is the £11 price tag, which seems a little high for the game, particularly when it’s currently listed for £5.99 on Steam.
In conclusion, I like Monster Slayers a lot, and I can’t wait to see what Nerdock-Productions has planned next.
