Dark Envoy Review (Uncanny Games)
Great concept at its core - but perhaps, not ready yet...
A great main (linear) story, and solid RTWP RPG foundation, but sadly marred by some glaring issues
https://youtu.be/I_hNAXKMKK4?feature=shared
TLDR in case you don't want to watch the video:
1. Although there are options between a full pause, and a 'slow-mo' tactical mode, there isn't any true turn based mode (at least not yet).
2. Fans of Baldur's Gate 2, the Pillars of Eternity games, and Tower of Time would be familiar with the gameplay here; although there is markedly less customizable options when it comes to party roles, compositions, order of opening spells and moves, and even party formations. There are 3 'stances' you can choose from, but I really wish there were more options besides those.
3. Some boss fights felt lacklustre and 'arcade'-ish, with a heavy focus on pausing at the right time, and dodging boss abilities and spells. I wish there was more focus on overcoming strengths and exploiting weaknesses using tactics, strategy, and skill builds as opposed to simply burst damage and movement.
4. That said, the map and level design is really great - this made some fights - in particular, defending against waves of mobs that attack you - fun and intense!
5. Graphics and sound design were top notch; it is fully voiced, and although there is some jank when it comes to character movement, it really can be overlooked by the great voice acting and character design.
6. There is plenty of exploration to be had, but I wish there were more side quests! The character quests also felt pretty short and sometimes unfulfilling. The hubs were beautifully crafted, but felt empty with a lack of interactions with NPCs and side quests.
7. Many dialogue choices are also limited to 'either / or' with no real impact on gameplay aside from losing some gold, or having a slightly different type of quest later on. I wish there was also some form of skill check, or multiple ways to resolve things aside from simply 'talk or fight'.
At its core, it has so much potential to be a great game - and I was decently invested into the story to want to see this game become better. However, with its current flaws, it really is a big toss up on whether you should try it or not.
Perhaps get it on a sale if you're a RTWP fan - but otherwise, just keep an eye on it for now whilst the devs work on ironing out the flaws, and hopefully, make this into the kind of game it deserves to be!