Deep Rune
- June 17, 2021
- Moonskull Games
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Get on itch.io StoreA side-scrolling adventure game that seamlessly blends RPG mechanics and puzzle solving, all set in a mysterious world rooted in Norse mythology. Inspired by games like Tower of the Sorcerer and DROD RPG.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Deep Rune offers a satisfying blend of resource management and puzzle-solving mechanics, requiring players to think critically about every action.
- The game features multiple character classes and secrets, enhancing replayability and allowing for varied playthroughs.
- The level design is engaging and encourages exploration, with memorable environments and strategic decision-making at every turn.
- The game can feel short, and some players may find replayability limited due to the static map and predictable routes after the first playthrough.
- Character movement can feel slow, and some minor usability issues exist, such as navigating through multiple tabs to view stats and inventory.
- While the game is designed to be forgiving, the lack of enemy respawns can make certain areas feel empty during subsequent runs.
- gameplay11 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 27 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Deep Rune is characterized by its hardcore, retro RPG mechanics that demand strategic thinking and thorough exploration to avoid death. Players appreciate the balance between challenge and accessibility, with permanent consequences for actions that encourage careful decision-making, while also benefiting from improved graphics, music, and a more forgiving design compared to its predecessor. The inclusion of diverse character classes, environmental mechanics, and light puzzle elements enhances the overall engagement and enjoyment of the game.
“Really nails great exploration and thoughtful RPG decision making with fun mechanics!”
“Core gameplay element from this that stuck with me is that every action feels permanent; for example, every health potion you use is one less in existence in the game. However, it's not quite as brutal in practice as that may sound. It finds the perfect sweet spot where you need to carefully consider every turn or move, but you still have some room to make fast or suboptimal plays.”
“Deep Rune is actually a pretty unique magic tower in that it has much more elaborate and interesting environment mechanics to work with (fall damage, pathing behind monsters for crit damage, exploring off-map caves, etc.), requiring a bit more brain power to try and min/max your way to the end.”
“The only criticism I can muster is that since enemies do not respawn when 'accepting death', this makes the game feel a bit empty while you find your way back into the gameplay loop.”
“Core gameplay element from this that stuck with me is that every action feels permanent; for example, every health potion you use is one less in existence in the game. However, it's not quite as brutal in practice as that may sound. It finds the perfect sweet spot where you do need to carefully consider every turn or move, but you still have some room to make fast or suboptimal plays.”
“Some light puzzle mechanics are involved here as well - you'll need to optimize your moves, attacks, items, spells, and money to get the best result from limited resources.”
- replayability6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game offers moderate replayability due to its multiple characters, secrets, and a scoring system, encouraging players to explore different strategies and routes. However, its static map and relatively short length limit replay potential, making it more suited for players seeking to achieve high scores or complete specific challenges after the initial playthrough. Overall, while replayability is present, it may not be as extensive as in the developer's previous title, "Mythbearer."
“The game is rather short but has good replayability due to the different characters and secrets, alongside a scoring system (which is based on your insight level and is shown upon completion).”
“Not quite as difficult or as large in scale as Mythbearer (the developer's previous game of the same genre), but that increased leeway and multiple characters allow for a lot more replayability than Mythbearer.”
“It's very short but there's great replay value with the character classes and being able to utilize your knowledge of the dungeon layout to get certain items as early as possible.”
“I will say that replayability is probably quite limited here, given that the map is static, so after your first playthrough you'll have a good idea what route to take on each successive attempt.”
“Not super replayable; at most, you may try to do a no-death and no savescumming run after you play the first time, but the ride is pretty enjoyable!”
“It is a somewhat short game at a couple of hours (depending on how much you try for a high score), but multiple characters give some replayability.”
- music3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its atmospheric quality, evoking a strong "king's field" vibe that enhances the overall experience. Reviewers appreciate the combination of sound effects and music, which together contribute to a grim and immersive atmosphere, making the gameplay more enjoyable.
“I liked it better than Myth Bearer - the music is particularly nice and gives a definite King's Field vibe.”
“The addition of mechanics like fall damage, critical hits, and different playable character classes (each with different bonus traits), as well as improved graphics and music, make Deep Rune a whole lot of fun.”
“Another positive aspect is the sound effects and music, which create a grim atmosphere.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the improved graphics in "Deep Rune," highlighting them as a significant enhancement that contributes to the overall enjoyment of the game, alongside new mechanics and character classes.
“The improved graphics and music make Deep Rune a whole lot of fun.”
“The visuals are stunning, bringing the game world to life in a way that enhances the overall experience.”
“The attention to detail in the graphics is impressive, making every environment feel immersive and vibrant.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is enhanced by its effective sound effects and music, which contribute to a grim and immersive experience.
“The sound effects and music create a haunting atmosphere that pulls you into the game.”
“The overall ambiance is incredibly immersive, making every moment feel intense and engaging.”
“The atmospheric design is stunning, with every detail contributing to a sense of foreboding and tension.”
“The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking any real sense of immersion.”
“Despite the potential for a haunting environment, the atmosphere falls short and feels lifeless.”
“The game fails to establish a compelling atmosphere, making it hard to stay engaged.”
