Vagrus - The Riven Realms
" Immersive post-apocalyptic RPG with deep caravan strategy but slow pacing and steep learning curve "
Vagrus - The Riven Realms Review
Vagrus - The Riven Realms is a deep and complex text-driven RPG where players assume the role of a Vagrus, a caravan leader navigating a harsh, post-apocalyptic world. The game excels in rich lore, extensive reading, and a vast open world that blends exploration, trading, and strategic combat. Players engage in faction quests, companion storylines, and economic management, with decisions impacting settlements and the game world. The game features a strong narrative focus and multiple DLCs expanding the experience with new regions and companions.
However, the gameplay can be slow-paced and challenging, requiring careful planning and resource management. Some players note the steep learning curve and RNG elements impacting profitability and survival. The interface and tutorial help but external guides may be needed. Despite these challenges, the game is praised for its unique setting, detailed writing, and rewarding depth, appealing especially to fans of interactive novels and strategic caravan management.
Highlights
Players praise the game's unique setting combining a post-apocalyptic world with Roman Empire and Dark Sun influences. The extensive lore, detailed companion and faction quests, and freedom of decision-making stand out strongly. The turn-based combat and caravan management add strategic depth. The art style and interface are well-received, with immersive presentation and a well-paced tutorial. DLC expansions are appreciated for adding new content and regions, enhancing replayability and world-building.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's slow pacing and difficulty, which can feel punishing and frustrating, especially early on. Resource management and trading profits often feel minimal and heavily reliant on RNG, limiting player agency and strategic control. Combat can be unforgiving, with limited healing options. Some players find the UI and map navigation unintuitive without external help. The soundtrack, while fitting, is noted as repetitive. Overall, the game demands patience and perseverance, which may not suit all players.
Pros
- • Rich and immersive lore with detailed companion and faction questlines.
- • Unique post-apocalyptic setting blending Roman and Dark Sun themes.
- • Deep caravan management and strategic turn-based combat.
- • Extensive player freedom in exploration and decision-making.
- • Beautiful art style and intuitive, thematic interface.
- • Well-designed tutorial easing players into complex mechanics.
- • Multiple DLCs adding significant new content and regions.
Cons
- • Slow pacing and steep learning curve can frustrate new players.
- • Trading profits often minimal and heavily RNG-dependent.
- • Combat is unforgiving with limited healing and recovery options.
- • UI and map navigation can be confusing without external guides.
- • Repetitive soundtrack diminishes immersion over long sessions.
- • Resource management can feel punishing and restrict player agency.
- • Some players find the game overly text-heavy and dense.
Rating Criteria
Embark on a perilous journey across a realm forsaken by the gods and devastated by an arcane cataclysm. Accompanied by a hardy crew, you must trade, fight, and explore your way to success as the leader of a traveling company in Vagrus, an award-winning turn-based post-apocalyptic fantasy RPG.