Stoneshard
" Hardcore turn-based RPG with deep tactical combat and survival mechanics but punishing death penalties "
Stoneshard Review
Stoneshard is a dark, unforgiving RPG that offers a brutally challenging medieval fantasy experience. Players appreciate the game's deep tactical combat, extensive build diversity, and atmospheric world, which evoke a strong sense of accomplishment after overcoming tough encounters. However, the game has been in Early Access for several years, with slow content updates and no full release in sight, which frustrates some players.
A major point of contention is the save system, requiring players to rest at specific locations to save progress. Upon death, players respawn at their last save point, often far from their objective, forcing tedious backtracking. This mechanic is seen as punishing and time-consuming, detracting from the overall enjoyment for many. Despite these issues, dedicated players find the game rewarding and engaging, praising its unique mechanics and tactical depth.
While its slow pacing and steep difficulty curve limit its appeal to a niche audience, Stoneshard remains a compelling choice for fans of hardcore, strategic RPGs seeking a challenging experience.
Highlights
Players praise Stoneshard for its deep and flexible combat system, which supports a wide variety of viable builds and playstyles. The game's atmospheric dark medieval setting and tactical turn-based mechanics deliver intense, rewarding battles that feel earned. Many enjoy the sense of progression through the caravan system and resource management. The pixel art graphics are well-received for their style and detail, enhancing immersion. Despite being in Early Access, the game receives consistent updates that add meaningful content and polish, keeping fans invested.
Criticisms
The most common criticism targets the tedious save system, which forces players to rest at inns or use beds to save, making death a major setback due to long walks back to objectives. This design is viewed as frustrating and punishing rather than enjoyable. Additionally, the game’s slow pacing and lack of native speed controls lead many to use external tools to speed up gameplay. The prolonged Early Access period with slow updates and no clear full release timeline also disappoints players. Some find the combat and survival mechanics overly punishing, with a steep learning curve that may alienate casual gamers.
Pros
- • Deep and flexible tactical combat supports diverse viable builds and playstyles.
- • Atmospheric dark medieval fantasy setting enhances immersion and mood.
- • Rewarding sense of progression through caravan and resource management.
- • Well-crafted pixel art graphics with detailed animations and style.
- • Consistent content updates add meaningful new features and polish.
- • Challenging gameplay offers intense and satisfying victories.
- • Complex survival mechanics add depth and strategic planning.
Cons
- • Save system forces resting at specific locations, causing tedious backtracking.
- • Death penalties are punishing and disrupt gameplay flow significantly.
- • Slow pacing and lack of native speed control frustrate many players.
- • Long Early Access period with slow updates and no full release date.
- • Steep learning curve and unforgiving mechanics alienate casual gamers.
- • Inventory management can feel cumbersome and restrictive.
- • Combat can feel grindy and repetitive once well-geared.
Rating Criteria
Stoneshard is a hardcore turn-based RPG about the harsh life of a medieval mercenary: travel with your own caravan, descend into procedurally generated dungeons, learn new skills, survive hunger and injuries - and remember, every mistake can mean death and loss of progress.