Root
" Faithful indie strategy simulation with unique asymmetric factions but clunky UI and bugs "
Root Review
Root is widely regarded as an excellent digital adaptation of the popular asymmetric woodland-themed board game. Players praise its faithful recreation of the original's mechanics, artwork, and unique factions, making it an accessible way to learn and enjoy the game without the physical setup. The inclusion of tutorials, AI opponents, and online multiplayer adds convenience and replayability, with cross-platform features enhancing accessibility. However, some players report issues with the AI's unfairness and incompetence, which detracts from solo play experiences. The game also faces criticism for UI clunkiness, occasional bugs, and a lack of features like skipping battle cutscenes or better matchmaking systems. Despite these drawbacks, Root's strategic depth, charming presentation, and faithful adaptation make it highly recommended, especially for fans of the board game or those looking to learn it digitally. Overall, it offers a compelling and addictive experience but could improve in polish and AI quality to fully satisfy all players.
Highlights
Players especially praise Root's faithful adaptation of the board game, including its charming artwork and animations that capture the original's spirit. The strategic depth and uniqueness of each faction provide varied and engaging gameplay experiences. Tutorials and AI opponents help newcomers learn the rules effectively. Cross-platform play and multiplayer options make it easy to enjoy with friends or online communities. The game is also lauded for making the complex board game more accessible and portable, with many appreciating the convenience of digital setup and play on devices like the Steam Deck.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the AI's poor performance and unfair advantages, which harm solo play enjoyment. The user interface is sometimes considered clunky and unintuitive, lacking features like friend search or easy matchmaking. Some players mention bugs and game freezes, as well as repetitive battle cutscenes without skip options. Additionally, certain rules are implemented differently than the physical board game, causing confusion. The ranking system and online matchmaking also receive negative feedback for being unbalanced or frustrating. These issues suggest room for improvement in polish and AI sophistication.
Pros
- • Faithful digital adaptation of the popular Root board game with excellent artwork.
- • Unique asymmetric factions provide deep and varied strategic gameplay experiences.
- • Helpful tutorials make learning the complex rules much easier for newcomers.
- • Cross-platform multiplayer allows playing with friends or online communities seamlessly.
- • AI opponents offer solo play options and help practice strategies.
- • Convenient digital setup and portability, including Steam Deck support.
- • Animations and visuals add charm without overwhelming gameplay.
Cons
- • AI is often unfair and weak, reducing enjoyment in solo matches.
- • User interface can be clunky and lacks features like friend search.
- • Frequent bugs and occasional game freezes disrupt gameplay flow.
- • Battle cutscenes are repetitive and cannot be skipped, slowing the game.
- • Some rules differ from the board game, causing confusion.
- • Ranking system and matchmaking are unbalanced and frustrating.
- • Requires account creation for online multiplayer, which some dislike.
Rating Criteria
Might makes right in the wild wood! The award-winning board game of asymmetrical woodland warfare comes to cross-platform digital play! Combine subtle strategy and bold daring to guide your forest faction to victory!