Upon launching the free combat demo of Runes, the open-world fantasy RPG, my computer’s fan control went into overdrive. The untextured enemies, reminiscent of Metal Gear Solid’s cyborg ninja, were a bold choice that left me both impressed and slightly skeptical. While the demo is just a small slice before the Kickstarter campaign, there is something undeniably captivating about the game.
Despite its lack of textures and unoriginal name, Runes manages to showcase a certain level of moxy that is hard to ignore. The combat mechanics, which are stamina-based and involve directional slashes, parries, and dodges, offer a satisfying weight to the gameplay. Even though the combat demo is limited to an arena mode, the progression system and unlockable perks add depth to the experience.
For those wary of unoptimized games or who have a preference for fully textured environments, Runes may not be the best choice. However, there is a certain charm to the game’s writing and gameplay that leaves a lasting impression. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there is a potential for Runes to evolve into something truly engaging.
If the fantasy RPG genre is your cup of tea but you prefer a more polished experience, Ardenfall offers a demo inspired by the likes of Morrowind. With solid gameplay mechanics and an immersive world that relies on signposts and NPCs for navigation, Ardenfall provides a more traditional RPG experience for those looking for something less experimental.
While Runes may not be the most visually appealing or technically optimized game on the market, it possesses a certain allure that draws players in. The unique combat mechanics and daring design choices set it apart from the crowd, making it a title worth keeping an eye on. Whether it will live up to its potential remains to be seen, but the demo certainly hints at an intriguing journey ahead for fans of the fantasy RPG genre.
Leave a Reply