As We Descend
" Innovative roguelike deckbuilder RPG with squad tactics and deep strategy but limited content "
As We Descend Review
As We Descend is a unique roguelike deckbuilder blending tactical combat with deck customization, city management, and an immersive atmosphere. Players control squads whose decks change depending on units chosen, while also managing a Lantern deck tied to the city. The gameplay loop includes expedition runs averaging around 2 hours, with meta-progression unlocking new units and cards. The game offers a fresh take on the genre, combining elements reminiscent of Slay the Spire and Darkest Dungeon but with distinct mechanics and strategic depth.
Players praise the game's art style, music, and atmosphere, which create an eerie, captivating world. The developers are active and responsive, frequently updating and tuning the game. However, some players note the current content is limited for the price, with runs becoming repetitive after 10-20 hours. Difficulty spikes and balance issues exist, alongside minor bugs and UI/animation roughness. Despite these, the game shows strong potential and a dedicated community eager for its full release.
Highlights
Players particularly enjoy the innovative deckbuilding mechanics, where decks are squad-specific and the Lantern deck adds strategic depth.
The game's art and atmosphere receive high praise for their quality and immersive vibe.
The storyline and lore enrich the experience, with interesting factions and a compelling setting.
Replayability is enhanced by meta-progression unlocking new units and cards.
Active developer support and frequent updates improve gameplay and balance over time.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the high price relative to current content, with some players feeling the game lacks enough variety and replayability.
Balance issues exist, with certain units considered weak or overpowered, and difficulty spikes that can feel unfair.
UI and animations are sometimes clunky or too fast, reducing clarity and polish.
Optimization problems such as memory leaks and slow transitions affect performance on some systems.
The narrative could benefit from deeper story integration and more meaningful player choices in the city sections.
Pros
- • Innovative squad-specific deckbuilding adds strategic depth and variety to combat encounters.
- • Beautiful art style and atmospheric music create an immersive and eerie game world.
- • Active developers frequently update and tune the game based on community feedback.
- • Meta-progression system unlocks new units and cards, enhancing replayability.
- • Unique blend of deckbuilder and city management mechanics offers fresh gameplay.
- • Challenging difficulty provides satisfying progression and mastery opportunities.
- • Strong lore and faction identities enrich the narrative and player engagement.
Cons
- • Current content is limited, leading to repetitive gameplay after 10-20 hours.
- • Price is considered high by some, especially without more content or polish.
- • Balance issues with some units and perks feeling underpowered or overpowered.
- • UI and animations can be clunky, too fast, or visually unclear at times.
- • Optimization problems cause slow transitions and occasional memory leaks.
- • Difficulty spikes may feel unfair and cause frustration in certain fights.
- • Narrative and city interactions lack depth and impactful player choices.
Rating Criteria
The apocalyptic roguelike deckbuilder with squad sculpting and deep tactics. Recruit the right units and outmaneuver titanic foes on dangerous expeditions. Build up allies and resources in the feudal Vault-City. Can you survive all the perils that await the last bastion of humanity?