The King is Watching

The King is Watching is a unique roguelite strategy game that combines kingdom management, resource allocation, and real-time tactical defense with an innovative gaze mechanic where progress depends on where the player focuses. Players must actively manage resources like food, stone, and silver, while defending against waves of enemies and bosses. The game boasts deep strategic layers, numerous unlockable kings and upgrades, and a satisfying progression system that keeps players engaged through varied challenges and replayability.

Despite its many strengths, the game has drawn significant criticism for lacking a mid-run save feature, which frustrates players given the lengthy runs that can last several hours. This omission impacts accessibility, especially for those with limited play sessions. However, the developers have acknowledged this and are reportedly working on implementing a save function. Other noted issues include some balance concerns, UI and tooltip clarity, and occasional grindy progression elements. Overall, the game is praised for its creativity, addictive gameplay, and artistic style, making it a recommended title for strategy and roguelite fans, especially once saving is added.

Highlights

Players highly praise the game's innovative gaze mechanic that requires active attention and multitasking, adding tension and depth to gameplay.

The strategic resource management and kingdom building elements are well-designed, offering a rich and satisfying experience without overwhelming complexity.

The art style and music receive consistent acclaim for their unique, charming, and cohesive presentation, enhancing immersion.

The progression system with unlockable kings, upgrades, and diverse strategies contributes to strong replayability and player engagement.

Combat and defense mechanics are noted for their depth and interactivity, distinguishing the game from typical auto-battlers.

Criticisms

The most frequent criticism is the lack of a mid-run save feature, which makes long runs frustrating and sometimes unplayable for players who cannot dedicate extended continuous play sessions.

Some players find the progression and unlock system grindy and restrictive, requiring repetitive or less enjoyable playstyles to unlock new content.

Balance issues are reported, with early game feeling too easy and bosses sometimes overwhelmingly difficult.

UI and tooltip clarity need improvement, as some information is vague or requires excessive navigation.

Additional quality-of-life features like speed controls in combat, better notifications, and more intuitive building management are desired.