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Arcus

93%Game Brain Score
story, gameplay
graphics, music
93% User Score Based on 67 reviews

Platforms

PCPCAndroidAndroidWindowsWindowsMobile PlatformMobile PlatformPhonePhoneTabletTablet
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About

"Arcus" is a fantasy action game now available on PC, where failure is a part of the story. Players aim and fire arrows, and swing swords at enemies while solving the mystery of a new undead skeleton faction in a land where magic is forbidden. Resources can be spent between missions to buy special arrow types and increase chances of success.

Genres & Tags
Play Modes
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot
Arcus screenshot

93%
Audience ScoreBased on 67 reviews
story7 positive mentions
stability5 negative mentions
  • The game offers a charming and fun experience with a surprisingly good story and engaging character development, especially in the final sequence.
  • Despite its simplicity, the gameplay is enjoyable, combining tower defense mechanics with satisfying archery and melee combat.
  • The game is free and provides a complete package in a short playtime, making it a worthwhile experience for players looking for a quick adventure.
  • The gameplay can feel repetitive, with limited enemy variety and simplistic mechanics that may not satisfy players seeking more depth.
  • There are several bugs present, including issues with achievements and gameplay mechanics that can detract from the overall experience.
  • The graphics and presentation are considered simple and may not meet the expectations of players looking for high-quality visuals.
  • story
    40 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's story is praised for its surprising depth and emotional impact, despite its minimalist presentation and brevity. Many reviewers express a desire for expanded lore and character development, suggesting that a more visual novel approach could enhance storytelling. Overall, while the gameplay may be simplistic, the narrative and its presentation, particularly in critical moments, leave a lasting impression on players.

    • “Music was stellar at some critical points and the story throws you for a loop (especially near the end).”
    • “The reason I recommend this game is the story; it's nothing revolutionary but it was surprisingly good and more than I had expected going in.”
    • “At its core, it's a tower defense game - fortify your position, choose from preset locations to fight the oncoming waves, use rewards to buy more gear for following missions. And the story(!) - despite its minimalist presentation and limited run time, it's actually rather moody and surprisingly in-depth.”
    • “However, there is so much potential; for example, there could have been more upgrades, a variety of enemies, and even expanding on the world and story (which clearly has lore that can be explored further).”
    • “While the story is a tad lackluster, its presentation is well done: doleful, calm, introverted, sad, and you keep wondering what the issue actually is.”
    • “There is something resembling a story, but you have to connect the dots between those, as there is very little text and characters mostly 'mumble'.”
  • gameplay
    26 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay has been described as simplistic and occasionally repetitive, with some players noting a lack of variety and depth. While the core mechanics, such as shooting and sword fighting, can be enjoyable, they may not satisfy those seeking more complex gameplay options. However, many reviewers appreciate the game's charm and storytelling, suggesting that the narrative elements often overshadow the gameplay itself.

    • “The melee mechanic keeps you hooked for the short 1-2 hour long playthrough.”
    • “Has good plot and music, and the core gameplay of shooting skeletons feels so satisfying.”
    • “Overall, while this game has admittedly simple gameplay, the plot is amazing and it is worth playing for that alone.”
    • “The gameplay may leave more to be desired, but I really appreciated the world/storytelling; it's like a quiet, short, mature GameCube-era Zelda.”
    • “While the gameplay is simple and a slight bit buggy, like not being able to fire arrows and generally just controls sticking sometimes, it overall is fun.”
    • “The gameplay itself is standard affair, nothing special to see here in terms of tower defense.”
  • graphics
    12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of the game are generally described as simple and functional, with some players appreciating the art style while others find it inconsistent and overly bright. While certain sequences, like the mine, showcase impressive lighting effects, the overall visuals may not satisfy those seeking higher quality graphics, particularly in environmental and NPC designs. Despite these critiques, many players find the artwork charming and suitable for the game's scope.

    • “This game is fantastic, very lovely art style and designs.”
    • “Just enough depth to keep it interesting for the time you'll likely be playing it, and wonderful visuals.”
    • “Visuals are fine for a small game (and the mine sequence actually looks pretty cool, amazing what a few lighting tricks will get you), but the art is too bright in general and would benefit from at least a more limited palette.”
    • “It may not be satisfying for players who expect higher quality graphics and details.”
    • “The artwork is decent, especially the main character and the horse, but the environment and NPC artwork is a little blocky.”
  • music
    9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in the game receives mixed reviews; while some players praise it as stellar and integral to the emotional impact of key story moments, others find it ordinary or mediocre. Highlights include a particularly glorious swell of music during the final cutscene, which left a strong impression on some players, contrasting with those who felt the overall sound design was forgettable.

    • “Music was stellar at some critical points and the story throws you for a loop (especially near the end).”
    • “The story, especially the last cutscene and the swell of music, is utterly glorious.”
    • “I do like the music and found it to be pretty fitting.”
    • “The sound and music elements of the game may be considered ordinary or forgettable.”
    • “Mediocre sound and music.”
    • “The sound and music elements of the game may be considered ordinary or forgettable.”
  • stability
    5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game exhibits several stability issues, including bugs that affect gameplay mechanics such as firing arrows and control responsiveness. While some users find it enjoyable despite these flaws, others feel that the bugs detract significantly from the experience, questioning its overall value even at no cost.

    • “While the gameplay is simple and a bit buggy, like not being able to fire arrows and generally having controls that stick sometimes, it overall is fun.”
    • “Also, switching arrows is buggy.”
    • “Buggy, not worth free.”
  • atmosphere
    5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's atmosphere is a standout feature, immersing players in a world filled with mystery, survival, and supernatural elements. While the story may be brief, it consistently delivers a captivating atmosphere, enhanced by impressive camera work and a desire for more original sound design. Overall, the atmosphere significantly elevates the gaming experience.

    • “The game is carried by its atmosphere.”
    • “Solving mysteries and surviving in a world where the dead rise from the dead and gods fight can offer players an immersive atmosphere.”
    • “The story is a bit short, but makes up for that by maintaining a consistent quality to its atmosphere during cutscenes.”
    • “A more original sound design that would reinforce the game's atmosphere may be preferred.”
    • “The story is a bit short, but it makes up for that by maintaining a consistent quality to its atmosphere during cutscenes.”
  • emotional
    1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game is praised for its emotional depth, featuring a cute aesthetic paired with a touching narrative that resonates with players.

    • “A cute game with a touching story.”
    • “The emotional depth of the characters really resonated with me.”
    • “I found myself tearing up during several key moments in the game.”

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