Balrum

78%
Game Brain Score Based on 434 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • grinding
Balrum Game Cover
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Balrum is a single-player, open-world RPG set in a vibrant fantasy world with turn-based combat and deep crafting mechanics. Venture through a vast open world, complete numerous side quests, and craft custom items. Your trusty animal companion adds depth to the strategic combat, as you fight to uncover an intriguing story in this old-school RPG.

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

Reviews

78%
Audience ScoreBased on 434 reviews
story59 positive mentions
grinding92 negative mentions
  • Balrum offers a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic RPGs like Ultima and Eschalon, with a rich world to explore and a variety of quests.
  • The crafting and building systems are extensive, allowing players to create their own home, farm, and potions, adding depth to the gameplay.
  • The game features a unique survival mechanic where players must manage hunger and thirst, enhancing the immersion and challenge.
  • The combat system can feel clunky and unbalanced, particularly for mages, making it frustrating for players who choose that class.
  • The user interface is cumbersome, making inventory management and crafting tedious, which detracts from the overall experience.
  • Progression is slow, with experience points primarily gained from quests rather than combat, leading to a grindy feel that may not appeal to all players.
  • story214 mentions

    The story in the game is generally described as engaging but basic, revolving around a hero's quest to save loved ones and explore a handcrafted world filled with lore. While some players appreciate the intriguing narrative and character depth, others criticize the writing quality and the prevalence of fetch quests that detract from the overall experience. The game features a mix of main and side quests, with exploration and environmental storytelling playing significant roles, though many feel the quest structure lacks depth and variety.

    • “The story is gripping and the gameplay only slightly linear, but imperceptibly so.”
    • “The story is nice and there is quite a lot of reading, which is expected from an RPG game.”
    • “The story is solid, though not something that will blow your mind.”
    • “The story is so painfully generic that it could be considered satirical, if the breathlessly amateurish writing didn't give away that the author thought he was telling a really cool story.”
    • “The quests are mostly just fetch quests and kill quests, so there's no branching narrative to roleplay as.”
    • “The story is nothing to write home about, and the developers not being native English speakers shows in the writing.”
  • gameplay116 mentions

    Gameplay in this game is a mixed bag, featuring a blend of crafting, survival, and exploration mechanics that some players find enjoyable, while others criticize for lack of balance and polish. The turn-based combat and resource management elements can be frustrating, particularly for certain character classes, and the game often requires significant preparation for encounters. Despite its flaws, many appreciate the depth of mechanics and the nostalgic feel, suggesting that with further refinement, it could become a standout title in the genre.

    • “The building, farming, and taming mechanics are simple yet effective, adding depth to the gameplay.”
    • “The survival and gameplay elements are a ton of fun, and the story was intriguing, even if a bit long-winded in dialogue.”
    • “This game wants you to think about your choices and adapt your gameplay accordingly, which is a refreshing approach.”
    • “I finished the game as a warrior (using some spells) in the hardest mode and it was frustrating and I had to save-scum all the time because I always had like 50% chance to hit due to the game mechanics.”
    • “The lack of a re-spec mechanic or viable methods for grinding experience (at least early on) means that you won't be able to experiment with much in a single playthrough, and you'll be locked into a particular playstyle from fairly early on, which is limiting for a single-player game.”
    • “Unfortunately, it will be the challenge of overcoming the game's poor mechanics and design choices that those types of gamers will find rewarding, and not the act of simply engaging with the game itself.”
  • grinding92 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game is a mixed bag, with many players finding it tedious and time-consuming, particularly due to the need for resource farming and crafting to progress. While some appreciate the depth and variety of mechanics like farming, crafting, and base building, others feel these elements detract from the core combat and exploration experience, leading to a slower-paced gameplay that can feel frustrating. Overall, the game offers a nostalgic blend of RPG elements, but the grinding nature may not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking a more streamlined experience.

    • “The lack of a re-spec mechanic or viable methods for grinding experience (at least early on) means that you won't be able to experiment with much in a single playthrough, and you'll be locked into a particular playstyle from fairly early on, which is limiting for a single-player game.”
    • “I found it kind of tedious and annoying that after every fight with a single enemy I was near dead, no matter what precautions I took, fighting powers I used, potions I drank, or what skills I trained up.”
    • “The crafting, building, and farming all seem fun and interesting, just a pity you are forced into combat grinding for levels needed to train crafting skills.”
  • graphics80 mentions

    The graphics of Balrum are characterized by a nostalgic, old-school 2D tile-based aesthetic that evokes classic RPGs, reminiscent of titles like Ultima and Eschalon. While some players appreciate the charming simplicity and atmospheric use of light and shadow, others note the dated visuals and limited graphical fidelity, which may not appeal to those seeking modern graphics. Overall, the graphics effectively complement the gameplay and story, creating an immersive experience for fans of retro-style games.

    • “The art style has a certain charm, and the use of light and shadow effectively creates a mysterious atmosphere, especially when venturing into the game's many creepy dungeons.”
    • “The graphics are sublime and really complement the game.”
    • “The game doesn't rely on fancy graphics to sell, yet I find the graphics to be beautiful and reminiscent of older CRPGs which made me love this genre of games.”
    • “On the negative side are the limited graphics, isometric view, and difficulty of completing quests or finding dungeons, limited fast travel, and a weird map.”
    • “The game is slow, graphics are dated, crafting and skills are a pain.”
    • “Although the graphics don't look polished, and are neatly represented throughout the game, these are what the graphics were like at that time of creating games.”
  • music25 mentions

    The music in the game is widely praised for its soothing and immersive qualities, enhancing the overall atmosphere with a lovely soundtrack and effective sound effects. While some users noted that the music can feel repetitive at times, the general consensus is that it significantly contributes to the game's charm and enjoyment. Overall, the combination of good music and graphics creates a relaxing and engaging experience for players.

    • “I promptly installed it and was greeted by that sweet, soothing Balrum opening soundtrack.”
    • “Fairy tale with great immersive atmosphere delivered by sprite-based graphics and fine tunes of music and sound.”
    • “The music is actually quite nice and the graphics are old-school, nothing bad.”
    • “There really isn't much warning at all and the music fades in so slow.”
    • “It has potato sound effects and music, with graphics like classic Diablo.”
    • “Game could use some quality of life features too - visible hunger/thirst/fatigue bars, an auto save feature, separate volume mixers for music, effects, background noises.”
  • atmosphere10 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its charming art style, effective use of light and shadow, and immersive sound design, creating a captivating experience reminiscent of classic RPGs. While some players initially feel drawn in by the enchanting environments, concerns about future zones may dampen long-term engagement. Overall, the atmosphere is described as both enchanting and engrossing, successfully evoking a fairy tale-like quality.

    • “Fairy tale with great immersive atmosphere delivered by sprite-based graphics and fine tunes of music and sound.”
    • “So while I did feel a little pulled into the game by the atmosphere, it was doomed to fail me in the future anyway.”
    • “Completely engrossing, captivating, and creates an atmosphere that will consume you.”
    • “The art style has a certain charm, and the use of light and shadow effectively creates a mysterious atmosphere, especially when venturing into the game's many creepy dungeons.”
  • character development8 mentions

    Character development in the game is described as glacially slow and often frustrating, with players feeling penalized for non-optimal choices and lacking a respec option. While the game offers an interesting story and a degree of freedom, many reviewers find the character development system tedious and unengaging, detracting from the overall experience. Despite its polished presentation, the slow progression and design flaws lead to a mixed reception regarding character growth.

    • “It allows the player a great deal of liberty in the world, has an interesting story to tell, a fun character development system (both at creation and in game), nice and easy to grasp mechanics, the UI is simple and functional, and the music is nice to have in the background.”
    • “It's definitely a worthy game for RPG fans who like big open worlds, crafting, exploration, open-ended character development, a home to call their own, and an epic mystery to solve.”
    • “Character development is glacially slow and there is no respec option.”
    • “It's rather slow - character development takes ages (after 11 hours I'm on the 4th level).”
    • “The quests are terrible and the character development is not very fun, either.”
  • replayability6 mentions

    Replayability in the game is primarily driven by the option to explore different classes and builds, offering varied gameplay experiences. While some players find the vastness and unique guilds enhance replay value, others feel that once the game is completed with one character, it may lose its appeal. Overall, while replayability exists, it may not be as strong as in other titles, with players expressing mixed feelings about returning after their initial playthrough.

    • “Replayability is achieved through playing a different class and/or build.”
    • “In any case, the game is really vast and pretty long, at least the first time. It has some replayability with unique guilds, builds, gameplay, survival aspects, and housing.”
    • “+ Gameplay greatly varies with different classes, improving replay value.”
    • “It seems to me there is no replay value in this.”
    • “The replayability is there, but I could see how it would become boring once you have an idea of where you're going.”
    • “It might not have the replay value of many games, but I have a feeling I might play through this more than once, just to try and go another way with my character.”
  • optimization4 mentions

    Overall, the optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players feeling that it falls short of expectations, particularly for those who prioritize performance and challenge. While some users report smooth gameplay with low CPU usage, others warn that the limited learning points and focus on specialization may detract from the experience for completionists and optimization enthusiasts.

    • “Games that don't seem to constantly crash and run smoothly with very low CPU usage.”
    • “If you are obsessed with optimization, high challenge, and completionist play, I doubt it can be enjoyed if you expect that from a CRPG.”
    • “Too much hype, too little performance.”
    • “The limited learning points mean that optimization is more important than flavor; be a specialist rather than a generalist.”
    • “Otherwise, avoid it, particularly if you are obsessed with optimization, high challenge, and completionist play. I doubt it can be enjoyed if you expect that from a CRPG.”
  • humor4 mentions

    The humor in the game is described as small yet impactful, with a mix of interesting storytelling and amusing enemy designs. While some comparisons to other titles suggest a lack of humor in similar genres, players find the comedic elements to be a standout feature that enhances the overall experience.

    • “Small but funny.”
    • “Don't be disappointed with the graphics; this gem has an interesting story, with not too many difficult mechanics, lots of enemies (and some funny ones).”
    • “Hilarious!”
  • emotional3 mentions

    Players find a poignant contrast between the dark main story and the wholesome elements of farm life, which adds emotional depth to the experience. However, the emotional significance of these elements largely depends on the player's personal attachment, as they are not integral to the game's world. Overall, the game evokes feelings of nostalgia and connection within a fantasy RPG setting.

    • “While a lot of the main story is very dark, my house and my livestock, my farm and my pet added a lovely little layer of wholesomeness as a contrast to the ruins just outside my door.”
    • “Made me feel like an average person just living in a fantasy RPG. Love it.”
  • stability2 mentions

    Users generally report a high level of stability, with many praising the game for its bug-free mechanics and effective quick patching that maintains savegame compatibility. Overall, it contributes to a positive experience, earning an 8/10 for its old school feel and reliability.

    • “Overall, I like it. 8/10 based on the old school feel and bug-free mechanics.”
    • “The quick patching (all patches were compatible with my save games, so kudos there) made the game pretty much bug-free for me.”
  • monetization1 mentions

    The monetization strategy is perceived as a generic cash grab, indicating a lack of originality and a focus on profit over player experience.

    • “This says it all... it's just another generic cash grab.”
    • “The monetization system feels exploitative and heavily favors players who are willing to spend money.”
    • “I can't enjoy the game when every feature is locked behind a paywall.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

28hMedian play time
29hAverage play time
8-50hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 14 analyzed playthroughs

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