DINO MERCS
- March 12, 2024
- Unusual Undertaking
Get on SteamIn "Dino Mercs," play as a veteran dinosaur mercenary in a roguelite deckbuilding game, scavenging and competing with rival groups in the midst of a fallen democratic government on Velraterra. Craft a powerful deck to survive harsh combat, engage in fierce battles with over 15 enemy types, and test your limits against elite enemies. Aim for high scores in this infinite, arcade-style adventure with multiple playable characters and ever-escalating levels.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Unique mechanics that allow players to influence both their own and their opponent's strategies, adding depth to the gameplay.
- Incredible art style and character designs featuring anthropomorphic dinosaurs, complemented by a fitting synth/rock soundtrack.
- The developer is responsive to community feedback, actively working to improve the game and implement quality of life features.
- Gameplay can become repetitive and passive, with limited strategic choices leading to a lack of engagement during battles.
- The tutorial is more of a reference guide than a practical walkthrough, which may intimidate new players unfamiliar with the deckbuilding genre.
- Balancing issues with stats and card effects can lead to situations where matches drag on or become too easy, reducing the overall challenge.
- gameplay9 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Dino Mercs features a detailed tutorial that serves more as a reference than a practical guide, leading to a learning curve that some players may find challenging. While the game introduces unique mechanics and character abilities, such as a tanky triceratops and a stealthy utahraptor, many users report a sense of passive gameplay that can feel unsatisfying and boring over time. Despite the presence of two distinct battle types, the overall experience may not resonate with all players, as some find the strategic elements lacking in excitement.
“The other characters are a tanky triceratops who relies on keeping his shield charged to do big damage, and a very fluffy Utahraptor who uses the stealth mechanic in a way that results in slower, but much more strategic battles.”
“There are also two different battle types, with different decks, health bars, and slightly modified mechanics.”
“The tutorial of Dino Mercs has a lot of information that breaks down the stats and the battle screens, but it's more of a reference guide than a step-by-step tutorial that walks the player through a gameplay example in real time.”
“I'm finding the gameplay a bit boring after initially really liking that it's something unique.”
“I respect the game for its unique mechanics; I just didn't enjoy it.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics feature a gritty art style that brings the dinosaurs to life with intricate patterns and details, making them visually appealing during gameplay. However, the focus on card elements detracts from the overall graphical experience, leading to a loss of interest for some players. Overall, the character designs are highly praised for their artistic quality.
“The dinosaurs are all colored in a gritty art style, with bodies patterned in spots, stripes, and scars that make them an absolute joy to look at while they're battling each other.”
“The characters are fantastic, and I love the art style so much.”
“Where it is focused more on the cards than any graphical aspects in the game, it loses the grip on my interest.”
- music3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's music features a hardcore synth/rock soundtrack reminiscent of 80's action movies, enhancing the overall vibe and enjoyment. While there are minor bugs affecting music playback in certain scenarios, they do not significantly detract from the experience. Overall, the soundtrack is a standout element that complements the game's unique theme.
“Pair that with the hardcore synth/rock soundtrack that would be right at home in an 80's action movie, and the vibe is just perfection.”
“Really fun roguelite deckbuilder with a great soundtrack, but what's always drawn me to it is the unique theme.”
“The music doesn't always play on the map screen or during merc killer/boss fights, which can be quite frustrating.”
- story2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The story is not deeply engaging, as some players find it easy to grasp the basics without fully reading the narrative. While it may become more complex in later missions, many users feel that the initial experience allows for quick progression through challenges.
“The story is engaging and draws you in from the start, making you eager to uncover more.”
“The narrative is well-crafted, with intriguing characters and plot twists that keep you invested.”
“Each mission feels meaningful, contributing to a larger storyline that unfolds beautifully.”
“So, admittedly, I didn't read it all. That said, I figured out the basics of the game pretty quickly by just jumping right into a mission.”
“Perhaps it becomes significantly more challenging later on, but I've beaten it several times now, moving to more challenging missions.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players note that the game features several grindy achievements, such as reaching a score of 400,000 and unlocking a hundred cards, which may appeal to those who enjoy completing challenging tasks.
“The grind for achievements feels excessive, especially when it requires reaching a score of 400k and unlocking a hundred cards.”
“Grinding in this game is tedious and feels like a chore rather than an enjoyable experience.”
“The amount of time required to grind for rewards is frustrating and detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game.”
