Elemental: Reforged
" Deep RPG-strategy hybrid with rich customization and quests but frequent bugs and crashes "
Elemental: Reforged Review
Elemental: Reforged is an ambitious fantasy 4X RPG strategy game that combines and upgrades elements from Stardock's previous titles like Fallen Enchantress, Sorcerer King, and War of Magic. Players appreciate its deep unit customization, RPG-style equipment and crafting systems, and a vast array of quests and factions. The game offers a rich sandbox experience with strategic city building, hero progression, and tactical combat.
However, as an Early Access title, it currently suffers from numerous bugs, occasional crashes, and unfinished features. Some players report frustrating UI issues, camera controls, and missing or placeholder content. Despite these drawbacks, the developer's active engagement and commitment to ongoing updates inspire optimism. Many reviewers feel the current price offers good value for the content available, and anticipate that with continued polish, Elemental: Reforged could become a standout title in the fantasy 4X genre.
Highlights
Players praise the extensive unit customization and RPG elements, allowing even basic troops to be uniquely geared and upgraded.
The quest and event system adds depth beyond traditional 4X gameplay, creating an immersive sandbox experience.
Many appreciate the combination of features from multiple Stardock games, resulting in a fresh yet familiar strategic experience.
The game runs well on various platforms including Steam Deck, with generally smooth performance when stable.
Developer responsiveness and community involvement are highly regarded, fostering positive expectations for the game's future.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's current Early Access state, with frequent bugs, crashes, and stability issues impacting playability.
UI and camera controls are often described as clunky or frustrating, hindering smooth gameplay.
Some players note missing features, placeholder text, and unbalanced or incomplete mechanics, especially in crafting and quest rewards.
Graphical presentation and interface design feel outdated to some, reducing immersion.
Several reviewers recommend waiting for further patches before purchasing due to the rough state of the game.
Pros
- • Deep unit and hero customization with RPG-style equipment and crafting systems.
- • Engaging quest and event system adds flavor and strategic variety.
- • Combines best features from multiple Stardock fantasy 4X titles.
- • Good value pricing for Early Access content and future potential.
- • Runs smoothly on Steam Deck and various hardware configurations.
- • Developer actively engages with community and implements feedback.
- • Strong foundation with promising gameplay mechanics and depth.
Cons
- • Frequent bugs and crashes disrupt gameplay and cause frustration.
- • UI and camera controls are awkward and sometimes unresponsive.
- • Incomplete features and placeholder content reduce polish.
- • Outdated graphics and interface design limit visual appeal.
- • Crafting and quest reward systems feel unbalanced or bare-bones.
- • Some players find combat and city management cumbersome.
- • Lack of tutorial or onboarding makes learning curve steep.
Rating Criteria
Create a character and lead your civilization in this epic, turn-based fantasy strategy game. Design units, research technology, learn magical spells, send adventurers on quests, craft magical items, trade or battle other civilizations for dominion of worlds of your imagination.