Arcanists

90%
Game Brain Score Based on 462 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • humor
Arcanists Game Cover
View game
Get on Steam

Arcanists is a thrilling competitive + casual, multiplayer, turn-based, artillery game. Players take turns in a race against the clock, utilizing an array of spells to defeat their opponents in battle! Victory is accomplished by becoming the 'last man standing' (or last team) after all other players have been reduced to zero hitpoints. ------------------------------------- 100+ Achievements to …

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

90%
Audience ScoreBased on 462 reviews
gameplay9 positive mentions
stability3 negative mentions
  • The game is a nostalgic revival of a beloved classic, providing a fun and strategic experience reminiscent of the original FunOrb version.
  • It features a wide variety of spells and customization options, allowing for unique gameplay and strategies.
  • The community, while having some toxic elements, also includes many helpful players and offers a casual and competitive environment.
  • The game suffers from significant balance issues, with many spells being overpowered and leading to a stale meta that discourages creativity in spell selection.
  • The player base can be toxic, especially towards new players, making it difficult for them to enjoy the game or learn without facing harassment.
  • The user interface and matchmaking system are considered confusing and outdated, which can hinder the overall experience for players.
  • gameplay17 mentions

    The gameplay is described as strategic, fun, and engaging, with a mix of new mechanics and spells that enhance the experience, although some players find the changes to old mechanics unsatisfying. While the game is easy to pick up, it requires some adjustment due to its depth and the jankiness of the user interface. Overall, it offers a fresh take on the classic formula, with appealing visuals and a supportive community, despite some minor issues with art and mechanics.

    • “Super fun, strategic, and endlessly entertaining gameplay.”
    • “Easy to start playing but has many mechanics.”
    • “There's tons of fun spells, maps, map RNG effects, customization, a decent community, good lobby customization options, rated gameplay with rewards.”
    • “A lot of the old mechanics in the original game just don't work.”
    • “In addition to new spellbooks, modes, and maps, there are several mechanics that are quite different from the original game, which may take some trial and error and experimenting to get used to.”
    • “The new books and familiars have mismatched art and verbose mechanics, but it's a small gripe for simply getting to experience and share the game again on a convenient platform.”
  • graphics10 mentions

    The graphics of the game evoke nostalgia, closely resembling the original pixelated style that long-time players cherish, while also introducing new elements that some feel clash with the established aesthetic. While the visuals are appealing and immersive, opinions vary on the effectiveness of the new art style, with some players desiring improvements and more spell options. Overall, the graphics are a blend of classic charm and modern updates, catering to both returning fans and newcomers.

    • “The graphics and customization are just like I remember them.”
    • “Solid gameplay, appealing visuals, free price tag.”
    • “For some background on the game, it has the same graphics as the original version along with all of the original spellbooks, but also includes several new spellbooks and maps, along with new modes called random spells, where you receive 16 random spells in your match (15 + arcane gate) and elementals, where you get an additional spellbook and its familiar effects along with your original 16.”
    • “Some returning players may dismiss the new changes, saying that new spells do not fit the art style and other debatable nonsense.”
    • “Improve the graphics a bit and add a lot more spells.”
    • “Game has a jarring art style that's a bit of an acquired taste, very in line with its OSRS origins, but the gameplay makes up for it.”
  • humor3 mentions

    The humor in the game is frequently highlighted as both funny and creative, with users appreciating its complexity and ability to evoke laughter throughout the experience.

    • “It's funny, complex, and creative.”
    • “Fun and funny.”
    • “Forgot how funny it can be at times.”
  • music3 mentions

    The music in the game is highly praised for its quality and variety, with each map featuring unique background tracks and distinct sound effects for spells. Reviewers highlight the soundtrack as a significant contributor to the overall fun and engaging gameplay experience, which is both accessible and deeply expressive.

    • “I can't tell you how good the music is, how fun the gameplay is; it's simple to grasp, yet has extreme depth and several methods of expression.”
    • “Each map has its background music, and each spell has its own sound effect.”
    • “Soundtrack, gameplay, super fun.”
    • “The background music for each map is repetitive and lacks variety, making it feel monotonous over time.”
    • “While each spell has its own sound effect, they often feel generic and fail to enhance the overall experience.”
    • “The music doesn't match the game's atmosphere, leading to a disjointed experience that detracts from immersion.”
  • emotional2 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game appears to be overshadowed by frustration and disappointment, as users express their struggles with gameplay mechanics and the impact of broken spells on their experience. Despite achieving high ratings through practice, the overall sentiment suggests a lack of emotional engagement due to these issues.

  • monetization2 mentions

    The monetization model of the game is well-received, as it only includes cosmetic purchases, which players appreciate. The game's success in attracting thousands of players without prior marketing highlights its strong appeal and quality.

    • “I think it's great that the only in-game purchases are cosmetic.”
    • “The monetization model is fair and doesn't affect gameplay.”
    • “I appreciate that there are no pay-to-win elements in this game.”
  • atmosphere2 mentions

    The game is praised for its immersive and chaotic atmosphere, appealing particularly to fans of magic and classic 2D aesthetics. Its blend of atmospheric elements and turn-based gameplay creates a captivating experience for players.

    • “The game is very atmospheric and chaotic.”
    • “If you love magic, old and atmospheric 2D games, and turn-based matches, then I am sure you will like this game!”
  • stability1 mentions

    Users report significant stability issues, citing frequent game freezes that render the game unplayable.

    • “With all the game freezes, it's unplayable.”
    • “The constant crashes make it impossible to enjoy the game.”
    • “I experience frequent lag and instability, which ruins the overall experience.”
  • replayability1 mentions

    The game offers significant replayability, particularly when played with friends, enhancing the overall experience.

    • “Has lots of replayability and is best played with friends.”
    • “The game offers a variety of choices that make each playthrough feel unique.”
    • “With multiple endings and different character paths, you'll want to dive back in for more.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Buy Arcanists

Videos

Similar Games