Grim Dawn
" Engaging ARPG with vast dual-class builds and rich lore but unstable multiplayer and crashes "
Grim Dawn Review
Grim Dawn is widely praised as a classic-style action RPG that successfully combines deep character customization with an engaging dark fantasy world. Players appreciate its extensive dual-class system, rich lore, and satisfying gameplay loop involving loot, exploration, and combat. The game offers a vast world with diverse environments, factions, and secrets, providing a high replay value through multiple character builds and mod support. Many reviewers highlight the game's balance between accessibility for newcomers and complexity for veterans, making it suitable for a broad audience.
While the graphics are considered dated by some, they still effectively convey the grim atmosphere. The game runs smoothly on various platforms, including the Steam Deck, and supports both mouse and controller playstyles. Frequent updates and DLCs have expanded content and mechanics, contributing to a loyal community. However, some players note that the pacing can feel slow initially, and there are occasional technical issues, especially with multiplayer connectivity and crashes, which can impact the experience.
Highlights
Players especially praise Grim Dawn's deep character building and dual-class system, allowing for extensive build variety and experimentation. The dark, immersive atmosphere combined with a rich storyline and lore enhances the experience. Combat is described as crunchy and satisfying, with effective crowd control and skill diversity. The game's world design and faction system add depth, while modding support and regular updates keep the content fresh. The inclusion of a loot filter and quality-of-life improvements are also well received, enhancing gameplay flow.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include a steep learning curve and initial overwhelm due to complex mechanics and inventory management. Multiplayer suffers from connectivity issues and crashes, with some bugs in server filters and occasional game-breaking level design flaws. Some players find the pacing slow early on and note that the graphics feel outdated compared to modern titles. Additionally, the story, while decent, is not the main draw and some voice acting is incomplete, requiring players to read a lot of text.
Pros
- • Extensive dual-class system offers vast character build possibilities.
- • Engaging dark fantasy world with rich lore and faction systems.
- • Satisfying and responsive combat with diverse skill options.
- • High replayability supported by mods and regular content updates.
- • Good balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans.
- • Built-in loot filter improves item management and gameplay flow.
- • Runs smoothly on various platforms including Steam Deck.
Cons
- • Multiplayer connectivity issues and frequent crashes frustrate players.
- • Initial complexity and inventory management can be overwhelming.
- • Graphics are somewhat dated and lack modern polish.
- • Incomplete voice acting requires extensive reading of text.
- • Early pacing may feel slow and repetitive for some players.
- • Some level design flaws cause player death and frustration.
- • Co-op mode is unstable and unreliable for many users.
Rating Criteria
Enter an apocalyptic fantasy world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, iron is valued above gold and trust is hard earned. This ARPG features complex character development, hundreds of unique items, crafting and quests with choice & consequence.
