Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator

Developer: niceplay games
Release: Dec 13th 2022
Platforms:
Indie
Simulation
Addictive
Creative
Cozy
Repetitive
Grindy
Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator Poster

" Charming indie simulation with unique alchemy mechanics and relaxing gameplay but late-game grind "

Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator Review

Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator offers a unique and charming alchemy experience centered on crafting potions through a tactile navigation mini-game on an alchemical map. Players enjoy a cozy, relaxing atmosphere with a distinctive art style, calming music, and a well-executed crafting loop. The game features gardening, customization, haggling, and a skill tree that add depth to the gameplay. However, after the initial hours, many players find the gameplay repetitive and grind-heavy, especially when pursuing late-game achievements or advanced potions. The reputation system and customer interactions lack meaningful story development or impactful choices, which some see as missed potential. While the game is easy to pick up and offers a satisfying early to mid-game experience, the late game can feel artificially stretched due to limited recipe availability and slow merchant visits. Quality of life improvements, better UI, and more varied challenges could enhance long-term engagement. Overall, it is a solid, addictive crafting sim best enjoyed at a discount or for those seeking a chill, creative experience.

Highlights

Players praise the game's unique and creative alchemy mechanics that allow for multiple solutions to potion crafting. The art style and cozy vibe are frequently highlighted as charming and relaxing. The gardening and skill tree systems add rewarding complexity without overwhelming difficulty. The haggling and customer interactions provide light-hearted entertainment. Many appreciate the game's accessibility and the satisfying progression without harsh penalties. The soundtrack and atmosphere contribute significantly to the immersive, calming experience. Overall, the game is seen as an enjoyable, well-made indie title with a compelling core gameplay loop that hooks players early on.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the repetitive and grind-heavy late game, which many find tedious and artificially prolonged. The alchemy mini-game, while innovative, becomes monotonous after extended play, with limited variation in gameplay loops. The reputation system and customer quests lack depth, failing to deliver meaningful narrative or moral choices. Some players find the UI and inventory management cumbersome, and the lack of batch processing for ingredients is a frequent gripe. The game also suffers from limited replayability and underdeveloped endgame content. Controller and touchscreen support are noted as suboptimal. Finally, the price is considered steep by some for the content offered, recommending purchase on sale.

Pros

  • Unique and creative alchemy mechanics with multiple crafting solutions.
  • Charming, cozy art style and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Engaging gardening and skill tree systems add depth.
  • Accessible gameplay suitable for casual and dedicated players.
  • Satisfying progression without excessive difficulty or penalties.
  • Entertaining haggling and customer interactions.
  • Well-balanced introduction of new elements and complexity.

Cons

  • Late game becomes repetitive and grind-heavy.
  • Limited meaningful story or character development.
  • Reputation system lacks impact and moral choices.
  • Inventory and recipe management can be cumbersome.
  • No batch processing for ingredient grinding.
  • Endgame content feels artificially stretched.
  • Controller and touchscreen support are subpar.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Potion Craft is an alchemist simulator where you physically interact with your tools and ingredients to brew potions. You're in full control of the whole shop: invent new recipes, attract customers and experiment to your heart's content. Just remember: the whole town is counting on you.

Release Date Dec 13th 2022
Publisher tinyBuild
Developer niceplay games
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (14,407)
93% Positive 7% Negative