Magic of Autumn
- February 16, 2020
- Phoebii
"Magic of Autumn" is a card adventure game where you explore a magical island, turning the environment into cards to use in card battles. As the Imperial Warden, you must retrieve your stolen soul and regain your powers. The combat system is easy to learn, yet challenging for veterans, taking inspiration from games like Hearthstone and Magic: The Gathering. The game features a remote Golden Apple Island, haunted by seasonal spirits and protected by runes, which you'll explore in autumn.
Reviews
- Unique and rewarding card collection mechanic through exploration.
- Challenging and strategic gameplay that encourages deck customization.
- Atmospheric music and charming visuals enhance the overall experience.
- Graphics and UI could use improvement, appearing rough at times.
- Balance issues can lead to frustrating encounters, especially in later stages.
- Lack of clear guidance on mechanics and map navigation can be confusing.
- gameplay24 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is characterized by a unique card unlocking mechanic and a fun narrative backdrop, making for an engaging yet straightforward experience. While the mechanics are interesting and offer a novel approach, the game struggles with teaching its systems and has room for improvement in visual clarity and UI. Overall, it provides a solid and enjoyable experience, especially for those willing to overlook some flaws.
“A nice, short card game experience with a unique mechanic for getting cards.”
“The mechanics of this game are really quite interesting and there are some brilliant ideas there.”
“I loved the conjuration mechanic, and I tried to find every card in the game.”
“Magic of Autumn struggles a bit when it comes to teaching its own mechanics and readability, and the visuals could definitely be improved, especially when it comes to the UI.”
“I freely admit that I haven't played the game long enough to fully critique the gameplay systems; I know that what I've played, I've enjoyed.”
“It's just gameplay.”
- story22 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as minimal and lacking significant outcomes, with players noting that it consists of brief narrative snippets that enhance the atmosphere but do not deeply engage. While the main story can be completed quickly, it provides a basic understanding of the characters and setting, contributing to a lightweight and enjoyable experience. Overall, the narrative is seen as a pleasant addition rather than a central focus.
“The atmosphere is very nice, I liked the art style and the story snippets contributed nicely to the feel of the world.”
“It's a thoughtful, lightweight deckbuilder with a somber-feeling overworld and an interesting story.”
“You also get a little bit of a story, so you know what your character is doing and some stuff about the baddies.”
“The game has some story bits, but there's no 'real' outcome to it.”
“Playing through just the story while skipping optional fights would only take a few hours.”
“It's a story... there, that's more accurate.”
- music16 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its atmospheric quality and thematic fit, enhancing the overall experience without becoming intrusive. Reviewers express a strong desire for the soundtrack to be released separately, highlighting its ability to create a unique emotional connection with the game's narrative. Many agree that the music alone adds significant value, making it worth the price of admission.
“If the developer releases the soundtrack as an extra, I'll buy it, no hesitation.”
“Music alone in this game is worth more than the price.”
“And the music.”
“Oh, the music.”
“The combination of the game's overworld and soundtrack put me in quite a unique headspace, one which was entirely appropriate given the protagonist's history.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics in "Magic of Autumn" are described as somewhat rough and simple, yet they effectively contribute to the game's charming atmosphere. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in UI readability, the overall art style and visual cohesion are appreciated by players.
“The atmosphere is very nice, I liked the art style and the story snippets contributed nicely to the feel of the world.”
“Simple, same as the graphics, but astoundingly charming.”
“Magic of Autumn struggles a bit when it comes to teaching its own mechanics and readability, and the visuals could definitely be improved, especially when it comes to the UI.”
“The graphics may look simple, but they work really well all together.”
“The visuals could definitely be improved, especially when it comes to the UI.”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its atmospheric music and visually appealing art style, which together create a dreamy and melancholic experience. Players appreciate how story snippets enhance the world-building, making it feel unique and immersive, despite some minor flaws. Overall, the atmosphere is considered a standout feature that adds significant value to the game.
“The atmosphere is very nice; I liked the art style and the story snippets contributed nicely to the feel of the world.”
“The melancholic atmosphere and unique way of collecting cards in the hub world make it really special.”
“But if you want something unique with nice atmosphere and solid mechanics, and you can forgive some flaws, this game is quite nice, especially for the asking price.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players report that grinding in the game is extensive, often requiring a significant time investment—almost likening it to needing a "second life" to achieve all accomplishments.
“You'll need a second life for grinding if you want to get all achievements.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding if you want to get all achievements.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game lacks high replayability, particularly for those seeking a well-balanced traditional deckbuilder experience. Players may find limited incentive to revisit the game after initial playthroughs.