Auto Chess
- April 28, 2020
- Dragonest Games
- 2h median play time
Auto Chess is a multiplayer strategy game with original mechanics and visually impressive design. It offers plenty of replayability, humor, and grinding, but also has some bugs. Marketed as the original Mobile Auto Chess, players can expect a unique and engaging experience.
Reviews
- The game is fun and addictive, with a good balance between strategy and luck.
- Great graphics and smooth gameplay, making it enjoyable to play.
- The game is free to play, with no pay-to-win mechanics, allowing everyone to compete on an equal level.
- The game frequently crashes and disconnects, especially during crucial moments in matches.
- There are issues with the matchmaking system, often pairing players with significant skill disparities.
- The RNG mechanics can be frustrating, as players may struggle to obtain the pieces they need while opponents easily acquire powerful units.
- graphics498 mentions
- 52 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many players praising the art style and visual effects as beautiful and engaging. However, numerous users report performance issues, including lag and frame rate drops, even on lower settings, which detracts from the overall experience. Some players express a preference for the previous graphics and interface, feeling that recent updates have led to a decline in quality and playability.
“The graphics and attack animations are amazing.”
“The graphics are awesome, the character models are pretty cool, and the diversity in builds that you can have in the game bring near limitless possibilities in strategy.”
“Graphics are crisp and beautiful and runs at 60 fps on mobile network.”
“The graphics went down, always lags, they changed the way some of the characters look and now they are just awful to look at.”
“I used to love the game but you guys the devs really just ruin the game, the previous version was fantastic but look at the game now, so crappy graphic, interface and gameplay.”
“The graphics update is just so horrible and taking too long to fix this issue it's almost a month no updates!”
- gameplay489 mentions
- 47 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is generally well-received, with many players appreciating its strategic depth and ease of understanding, making it accessible for newcomers while still offering complexity for veterans. However, some users express frustration with the reliance on RNG, long match durations, and occasional technical issues like lag and crashes, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these criticisms, the game is praised for its engaging mechanics, cute character designs, and the absence of pay-to-win elements, making it a competitive and enjoyable auto chess experience.
“The art is cute; the voice acting adds a little immersion, and the gameplay keeps you on your toes.”
“Gameplay is as complicated or as simple as you want it to be.”
“It has stellar gameplay and animations and pretty good graphics for a mobile game.”
“The gameplay itself is solid, but when matches take 20 minutes or more, it gets boring.”
“The gameplay is mediocre at best; it's really boring after 20 rounds of sitting there doing nothing. You basically take the whole strategy out of chess and just focus on upgrading troops, which isn't fun.”
“The gameplay is so long and boring, but the effects are pretty good.”
- stability129 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 1 % neutral mentions
- 97 % negative mentions
The game's stability has been widely criticized, with numerous users reporting frequent freezes, crashes, and lag, particularly after recent updates. Many players experience issues such as the game freezing mid-match, connectivity problems, and delayed reactions, which significantly detract from the overall gameplay experience. Despite its enjoyable content, the persistent bugs and instability have led to frustration among the player base.
“We can wait longer as long as it's bug-free.”
“All in all, one of the best games I have played; no glitches, no lag, none of that. Truly one amazing game! 👍😁”
“Runs great, always new content.”
“Every time around the 7th round, the game simply freezes. The counter stops and nothing can be done, no matter how long you wait hoping for it to continue. The only option left is to close the game and reload, which results in starting a new match that will lead to the same situation.”
“The game always freezes and disconnects like every 10 rounds after the new updates; my experience has been horrible.”
“Constantly crashes and freezes up your device. It freezes too much, there are too many bugs and lags, plus instead of fixing the problems, they just keep adding new things, making the app bigger and causing more lag.”
- monetization114 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 51 % negative mentions
The monetization model of the game primarily revolves around cosmetic microtransactions, which do not impact gameplay, allowing players to enjoy the game without a pay-to-win structure. However, many users express frustration with the overwhelming presence of ads, both in-game and on external platforms, leading to a negative perception of the game's monetization strategy. While some appreciate the lack of intrusive ads and the ability to earn in-game currency, others criticize the confusing and aggressive nature of the ad placements and the high costs of in-app purchases.
“With that being said, it's a completely free-to-play game with no ads and only cosmetic microtransactions.”
“The in-app purchases are for vanity items which in no way have an effect on gameplay, for those wondering.”
“Absolutely fantastic game, deep strategy, easy to learn, difficult to master, no ads whatsoever, and it's free, and no pay to win.”
“The cosmetics and chess players make no sense and have no relationship to the chess pieces you use in the game, and the microtransactions are some of the worst you can think of.”
“My biggest gripe is the underhanded way microtransactions work.”
“This game is fun but they are lying by advertising 'fair play'.”
- optimization65 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's optimization is a mixed bag; while some users praise its smooth performance and good graphics, particularly on mobile devices, many report persistent lag, crashes, and performance issues even on high-end hardware. Frequent updates have improved optimization for low-end devices, but there are still calls for further enhancements, especially regarding the user interface and server stability. Despite these challenges, many players find the game enjoyable and addictive, highlighting its potential with better optimization.
“I think out of all the auto chess games currently on the market, this one runs the smoothest and is most optimized for mobile.”
“Most balanced and optimized auto battler out there, the user interface needs some serious work though.”
“Very well optimized, runs smooth even on low-end devices.”
“The game was not half bad but it needs some optimization; I have a high-end phone and it lags a bit from time to time.”
“Optimization got so much worse after the update that I can no longer play a full match, not even freeing a lot of storage space.”
“A poorly optimized garbage game; might as well stop making games.”
- story46 mentions
- 11 % positive mentions
- 83 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The game's story aspect is largely criticized for its lack of depth and engagement, with many players expressing a desire for character backstories and a dedicated story mode to enhance the gameplay experience. Users feel that the current quest system is frustratingly restrictive, particularly for free players, and that the absence of a cohesive narrative detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. While the gameplay is generally fun, the demand for more meaningful missions and a structured storyline is a common theme among reviews.
“This is actually a really fun game, but it still needs improvement; if there is a story behind every character, it would be a great addition.”
“I thought if this game has a story, it will be more fun!”
“I love the game; it's fun and basically plays itself. I just wish there was a PvE story mode and more factions, and the ability to choose your faction before the game starts instead of mixing them.”
“The game itself is almost excellent, but the fact that I spent money on the battle pass and can't even complete all the quests is ridiculous.”
“Only thing I can say that doesn't make it perfect (in my opinion) is that yes, the game is free to play and you can do everything in the game without paying, but it seems that there are way more quests for paying players that only they can complete than there are for non-paying players.”
“I love the game; it's fun, but I wish there was a PvE story mode and more factions, and the ability to choose your faction before the game starts instead of mixing them.”
- humor35 mentions
- 94 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is largely derived from its quirky character designs, amusing sound bites, and the absurdity of certain gameplay mechanics, such as nonsensical text filters and translation errors. Players find the game's meta references and the frequent glitches, like unexpected crashes and comical messages, to be entertaining, contributing to an overall lighthearted experience. Despite some frustrations, many users appreciate the humor as a key aspect of their enjoyment.
“Everything so far seems great about the game from visuals to mobile play, the few things that stood out as errors were the amount of typos, and the explicit text filter that is only in private messages when trying to tell a friend 'my game crashed' translates the text into 'love of auto chess, love of life' which is not only hilarious but makes no sense to why that would be filtered or why it only filters in private messages.”
“The only issues are minor ones mostly being the English translation is terrible but is kinda funny.”
“Good game.. at first I was bothered by the voice of the hero (because it's Chinese), but now every time the hero talks it humors me.. good job developer.”
“The games are infinite; they never finish, and the experience is not funny at all.”
“It's not funny when the game cannot load the Facebook account.”
- music24 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players expressing frustration over the inability to turn it off during loading screens and the perception that it feels childish or repetitive. Some users appreciated the initial soundtrack and voice acting, but recent updates have led to dissatisfaction with the changes, including a shift to English voiceovers and a less enchanting score. Overall, while some players enjoy the music, a significant number find it detracts from their gaming experience.
“Omg what an amazing game! I never really liked chess, but you guys were able to make it fun. No pay-to-win stuff, keep it up! I recommend this to anyone. Wow though, good work! No lag, cool gameplay, awesome graphics, nice music. Just GG on this game, this is going down in my record book! (+_+)/ :))))”
“The season 1 music was much more enchanting and the voice acting was amazing for the chess pieces.”
“Excellent, great game and I love the music! ❤️❤️”
“Update after 2 years: still plays music at the beginning even though I have sounds and music turned off.”
“Great game, great mechanics... but crappy music. I always open the game in silent because if I hear the music, I don't feel like playing. It gives that total stupid childish brain-dead game vibes, but in reality, it's a freakin awesome game. Edit: after the update, it sounds even worse and what's with the English voiceover?”
“The new update is trash and it shuts down my music in the background now.”
- replayability17 mentions
- 53 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability due to its strategic depth and variety of gameplay experiences, with many players enjoying the element of luck that keeps each match fresh. However, some users express concerns about limited content and hero choices, which may diminish replay value over time. Despite these criticisms, the game remains engaging and fun for many, with no pay-to-win elements contributing to its replayability.
“If you have the 30-45 minutes per match to play, auto chess offers an engaging experience with incredible replayability.”
“Tons of replayability and no pay to win ❤”
“Loads of different strategies and huge replayability.”
“There is a very limited choice in heroes and I hope to see more playable heroes in the future to maximize those bonuses you get from the same races and factions.”
“It's okay... loses its replayability after a while.”
“It, like most games, doesn't have enough content to keep you entertained for long, no replay value and honestly a 'done before' type of feel, no unique experience here.”
- grinding16 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- -12 % neutral mentions
- 94 % negative mentions
Players express frustration with the grinding mechanics in the game, noting that the lengthy sessions and lack of meaningful rewards diminish the enjoyment. Many feel that the grind is tedious and repetitive, especially when coupled with technical issues like crashes and server problems. While some appreciate the potential for fun, they call for improvements, such as more varied gameplay modes and better compensation for time lost during grinding.
“The grinding in this game is skill-based, ensuring that players can progress without the need to pay to win or rely on purchasing packs.”
“I appreciate that the grinding mechanics are designed to enhance my skills rather than just being a repetitive task.”
“The game strikes a perfect balance with its grinding system, making it rewarding and engaging without feeling like a chore.”
“Imho, this could have been a great game, but the fact that every time you leave the main app screen and go back, it restarts is pretty annoying. Also, almost every item in the store can only be purchased via payment, which isn't good. Yes, I know it's optional and doesn't affect your gaming, but what's the point of grinding/playing if there aren't worthy rewards?”
“Even eternally grindy MMOs usually have a stopping point after every 2-minute mission or so, but once you start a game here, you're stuck for over 30 minutes.”
“Way too grindy, and it gets repetitive.”
- character development13 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 23 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
Overall, character development in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising the creativity and variety in character design, while others criticize it for being derivative of existing games like Dota. Some players appreciate the charming and fun aspects of the designs, though there are complaints about the cluttered UI and a desire for improvements in character aesthetics. Despite these critiques, the character designs are generally seen as a highlight, contributing positively to the game's overall appeal.
“I mostly want to praise their character design; while based on Dota (which is funny since those were based on Warcraft characters), they do a good job of standing out on their own, and they're also adorable!”
“Amazing graphics and character development.”
“Fun game, true to the spirit of the original game but with more fun character design, good UI, overall one of the most solid mobile games you can play in my experience.”
“The character design is okay, it's a direct copy of its Dota counterpart in terms of skill, but here they have different names and designs.”
“Amazing game idea, with beautifully crafted (and stolen) abilities and character designs.”
“New character designs just... give me so much hate and anger!”
- emotional6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is mixed, with some players feeling a sense of frustration and disappointment due to glitches and perceived exploitation of the game's original charm for monetization. While there is an appreciation for the strategic depth that allows for comebacks, the overall sentiment leans towards dissatisfaction with the game's current direction and mechanics.
“The system was battling by itself which made me feel unnecessary.”
“It's really kinda sad how they turned this wholesome player-made thing into another husk to cram a battle pass in...”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is praised for its impressive animations and performance, creating a unique and engaging experience. Players appreciate the visually appealing design and the welcoming nature of its free-to-play model, contributing to an overall enjoyable environment.
“This game is really a unique concept, with great visuals and a very friendly free-to-play atmosphere.”
“Has amazing animations, great performance, and the atmosphere of play is great and easy to understand.”