Demonic Mahjong

Demonic Mahjong is a unique blend of mahjong and roguelike gameplay, often compared to games like Balatro and Slay the Spire. Players appreciate its addictive nature, diverse characters each with distinct playstyles, and the integration of special abilities that enhance the traditional mahjong experience. The game features a solid tutorial that helps newcomers understand the mechanics, even if they have no prior mahjong knowledge. The soundtrack and sound design receive high praise for being catchy and immersive, complementing the gameplay well.

However, some players note issues with the English translation, including text overflow and missing text in menus, which can hinder the experience. There are also minor bugs related to UI and character animations, though the developers are responsive in addressing these. The game runs well on platforms like the Steam Deck, though some UI elements could be improved for accessibility. Overall, Demonic Mahjong offers a fresh, engaging take on mahjong with roguelike elements, appealing to both mahjong veterans and newcomers.

Highlights

Players love the addictive gameplay that combines mahjong with roguelike mechanics, offering deep strategy and variety through numerous characters with unique abilities. The soundtrack and sound effects are frequently described as catchy and immersive, enhancing the overall experience. The game’s tutorial is effective, enabling even those unfamiliar with mahjong to enjoy and progress. Visuals and character designs receive positive remarks for being appealing and fitting the theme well. The game’s structure with unlockables and progression keeps players engaged and motivated to continue playing.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on translation issues, including overlapping and missing English text that can confuse players. Some players mention UI bugs and minor graphical glitches, such as blurry or janky text and choppy animations, which detract from polish. A few users wish for better subtitle settings and more varied music tracks to reduce repetitiveness. Some suggest quality-of-life improvements like highlighting potential winning hands and allowing character selection in the main menu. A small number of players also note that the learning curve can be steep for those unfamiliar with mahjong.