Fights in Tight Spaces

Developer: Ground Shatter
Release: Dec 2nd 2021
Platforms:
Action
Strategy
Addictive
Strategic
Stylish
Replayable
Clunky Progression
Fights in Tight Spaces Poster

Fights in Tight Spaces Review

Fights in Tight Spaces is a turn-based tactical card game blending martial arts combat with rogue-lite deck-building mechanics. Players navigate grid-based arenas, using stylish moves and strategic positioning to defeat enemies. The gameplay is praised for its intuitive yet deep combat system, combining tactical decisions with cinematic flair. The game offers multiple starter decks and a DLC that adds new challenges and a gun-wielding deck, expanding variety.

While the core combat and replayability receive strong acclaim, some players find the meta progression and deck unlocking system slow and clunky. The random card draws introduce unpredictability, which some enjoy as part of the challenge, while others feel it can be frustrating. Minor issues include occasional UI misclicks and unclear mechanics. Overall, the game is lauded for its addictive gameplay, aesthetic style, and soundtrack but could improve its meta-structure and tutorial clarity.

Highlights

The most praised aspects include the innovative grid-based tactical combat that makes positioning and enemy manipulation engaging. The stylish martial arts moves and cinematic fight replays add visual appeal. Players appreciate the variety of starter decks, especially the Gunslinger DLC deck. The soundtrack by nervous_testpilot enhances the immersive spy atmosphere. The game’s replayability and strategic depth keep players invested over many hours.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the slow and unpolished meta progression, making repeated runs feel less rewarding. Some players find the deck-building choices limited and occasionally frustrating due to RNG. The game’s tutorial and mechanic explanations lack clarity, causing confusion about enemy behaviors and defensive mechanics. UI issues like misclicks during card upgrades detract from the experience. Additionally, the DLC adds limited content beyond difficulty spikes.

Pros

  • Engaging grid-based tactical combat with strategic enemy manipulation and positioning.
  • Cinematic martial arts moves and stylish combat animations enhance visual enjoyment.
  • Diverse starter decks provide varied playstyles and strategic options.
  • Highly addictive gameplay with strong replayability and depth.
  • Excellent soundtrack that complements the spy-themed atmosphere.
  • Auto-save feature allows for flexible play sessions and reduces frustration.
  • Rogue-lite elements add challenge and encourage mastery of decks.

Cons

  • Meta progression and card unlocking feel slow and unpolished.
  • Random card draws can lead to frustrating and inconsistent runs.
  • Lack of clear explanations for some mechanics and enemy behaviors.
  • UI misclicks during card upgrades and removals cause annoyance.
  • DLC content is limited mostly to harder enemies and one new deck.
  • Some starter decks are unbalanced or less fun to play.
  • No custom run mode to test deck combinations without progression impact.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

A stylish blend of deck-building, turn-based tactics, and thrilling animated fight sequences in classic action-movie settings. Learn to balance your hand, momentum, and positioning to overcome the odds to defeat your adversaries. Build your deck, control the space and live to fight another day.

Release Date Dec 2nd 2021
Publisher Raw Fury
Developer Ground Shatter
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (2,168)
94% Positive 6% Negative