Necken
- April 13, 2021
- Jocce Marklund
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io StoreNecken is a tactical roguelike with permadeath, set in a procedurally generated forest. Gather resources, craft gear, and fight off animals, soldiers, and mystical creatures to reach the water spirit Necken. Features include simplistic combat, unlockable characters and trinkets, and the ability to craft weapons and tools.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features beautiful graphics and an enchanting atmosphere that captures the essence of a Nordic forest.
- Gameplay is challenging and addictive, with a solid core loop that encourages strategic thinking and resource management.
- The music is fantastic, enhancing the overall experience and adding to the game's magical feel.
- Resource scarcity and an unbalanced level generator can lead to frustrating gameplay, making it feel like fighting is often not worth the effort.
- The need for constant item repairs can become tedious, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game.
- The game is currently unpolished and may require significant improvements to combat mechanics and resource management.
- gameplay20 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 35 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a quick and engaging turn-based system that combines simple, intuitive controls with strategic depth, making it both accessible and challenging. Players appreciate the solid core gameplay loop, well-designed boss fights, and the element of randomization that requires adaptability. The overall experience is enhanced by a fitting graphic style and atmospheric music, making it a rewarding roguelike adventure reminiscent of classic titles like "Binding of Isaac."
“Features turn-based gameplay but isn't boring; it's quick and active.”
“What I liked: the core gameplay loop is solid, the graphic style matches the theme, boss fights are well designed, randomization requires you to adapt to resources and threats available, and great moody background music.”
“Everything from the graphics to gameplay.”
“It has a short and sweet gameplay loop that if you like games such as Binding of Isaac, I think you should genuinely keep an eye on the game as it develops.”
“The controls and mechanics are simple and intuitive once you get used to them, but still require strategic thinking if you want to survive and progress.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics are widely praised for their gorgeous art style that perfectly complements the game's theme, creating a nostalgic and immersive experience. However, some players noted a lack of visual variety across levels and occasional imbalances in resource economy. Overall, the graphics contribute significantly to the game's atmosphere and enjoyment.
“Loving the art style and the music <3”
“Gorgeous graphics that are just perfect for the setting.”
“What I liked: the core gameplay loop is solid, the graphic style matches the theme, boss fights are well designed, randomization which requires you to adapt to resources and threats available, great moody background music.”
“What I didn't like: resource economy is imbalanced sometimes, there's maybe too little variety in visuals across levels.”
“[*]nostalgic graphic and sound design.”
“[b]graphics[/b]”
- music8 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise, with many users highlighting the catchy intro song and the quality of the vocals. The background music is described as moody and well-suited to the game's atmosphere, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, the art style complements the music, creating a cohesive and enjoyable auditory experience.
“The intro song is an absolute banger; the singer did a great job.”
“Loving the art style and the music! <3”
“What I liked: the core gameplay loop is solid, the graphic style matches the theme, boss fights are well designed, randomization requires you to adapt to resources and threats available, and the great moody background music.”
- atmosphere6 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in Necken is highly praised for its immersive depiction of a dark Nordic forest, filled with mythical creatures, which enhances the overall experience of exploration and crafting within the game. Players appreciate how effectively the game evokes a sense of mystery and adventure in this enchanting setting.
“Necken really captures the atmosphere of walking in a Nordic forest surrounded by mythical creatures (not that I have done it).”
“Love the dark Nordic atmosphere and the crafting/searching for materials aspects of the game.”
- story2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising its depth and character development, while others find it lacking in originality and coherence. Overall, the narrative is seen as a significant element that can enhance or detract from the overall gaming experience, depending on individual preferences.
