Towerborne

Developer: Stoic
Release: Sep 10th 2024
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
RPG
Early Access
Addictive
Cooperative
Customizable
Always Online
Accessibility
Towerborne Poster

Towerborne Review

Towerborne is a cooperative 2.5D side-scrolling beat'em-up with RPG elements, offering a polished and addictive gameplay loop. Players appreciate the diverse and balanced class system, allowing for deep customization and experimentation without penalties. The game shines brightest in multiplayer mode, where the challenge and loot rewards scale with the number of players. Visually, Towerborne features stylish graphics with a unique art style and a detailed character creation system. The soundtrack is praised for its immersive and relaxing qualities, complementing the game's atmosphere well.

However, Towerborne is still in early access, and some aspects require improvement. The tutorial is considered barebones, and the menus, especially for gear management, can be cumbersome. The always-online requirement frustrates solo players, and server issues sometimes hinder gameplay. Accessibility for blind players is lacking, and some find the story and daily quest content limited. Despite these issues, many players find the game fun, replayable, and worth supporting, anticipating more content and refinements in future updates.

Highlights

Players praise Towerborne's balanced and diverse class system, allowing for unique builds and playstyles. The polished combat mechanics and satisfying grind loop keep players engaged. The character customization is notably detailed, with varied options that allow players to create distinct avatars. The stylish 2.5D graphics and unique art style receive positive remarks, alongside a soothing and immersive soundtrack that enhances the game atmosphere. Multiplayer co-op is highlighted as the game's strongest feature, offering increased challenge and better rewards, making the experience more enjoyable and social.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the always-online requirement, which negatively impacts solo players and causes frustration during server issues. The tutorial is minimal, leaving new players wanting more guidance. The menus and map navigation are sometimes confusing or cumbersome, especially for gear upgrades. Accessibility is a significant concern, with blind players reporting a lack of support. Some players find the storyline and daily quest content limited, leading to repetitive gameplay. Additionally, the game currently lacks voice acting and could benefit from expanded content such as more classes, maps, and bosses.

Pros

  • Engaging and addictive cooperative gameplay with a satisfying grind loop.
  • Balanced and diverse class system with deep build customization.
  • Detailed and varied character customization options.
  • Stylish 2.5D graphics with a unique and appealing art style.
  • Soothing and immersive soundtrack that enhances atmosphere.
  • Fair cosmetic microtransaction system without pay-to-win elements.
  • Runs smoothly on multiple platforms, including Steam Deck.

Cons

  • Always-online requirement limits solo play and causes server dependency.
  • Minimal tutorial leaves new players wanting more guidance.
  • Menus and map navigation can be confusing and cumbersome.
  • Accessibility features lacking, especially for blind players.
  • Storyline and daily quest content feel limited and repetitive.
  • Server issues can prevent login and disrupt gameplay.
  • Lack of voice acting reduces world immersion.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Towerborne is a new kind of Looter Brawler, combining side-scrolling combat with action RPG loot progression and endless customization. Unite with other Aces and defend the Belfry, humanity’s last refuge. Explore, fight, and grow stronger – together.

Release Date Sep 10th 2024
Publisher Xbox Game Studios
Developer Stoic
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (581)
79% Positive 21% Negative