Phageborn Online Card Game
- February 7, 2020
- Games Revolted
- 45h median play time
Get on SteamPhageborn Online Card Game is a dark-fantasy card game with MOBA elements, where players can control powerful Avatars and engage in fast-paced dual lane battles. The game features a challenging dual-resource system and the option for cooperative 2v2 gameplay. Your choices will shape your destiny and the fate of the universe as you rise to power and become a legend.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features stunning dark fantasy artwork and innovative mechanics, such as a dual lane and dual resource system, which add depth to gameplay.
- It employs a fair business model where all cards are unlockable through gameplay, eliminating pay-to-win elements and allowing players to access the full card collection without additional costs.
- The developers are responsive to community feedback and actively working on improvements, showing a commitment to enhancing the game experience.
- The game has a very small player base, leading to long wait times for matches and a lack of available opponents, which severely impacts the online experience.
- It suffers from various bugs and technical issues, including problems with the tutorial and matchmaking, making it difficult for new players to learn and enjoy the game.
- The game is currently in Early Access and lacks essential features like AI matches for practice, which limits the ability to learn without facing more experienced players.
- gameplay38 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The gameplay of this card game is praised for its strategic depth and innovative mechanics, such as dual lanes and unique avatar powers, which enhance deck-building options and overall engagement. While it shares similarities with established titles like Hearthstone, it offers a more complex and rewarding experience, though some players note a lack of polish and balance issues. Overall, the combination of detailed artwork and intricate mechanics makes it a compelling choice for fans of the genre, despite some learning curve and the absence of an interactive tutorial.
“The mechanics are implemented very well and there is a lot of depth and variance from deck to deck.”
“Overall, I'd say that the gameplay and strategy of Phageborn goes toe to toe with the big dogs in the CCG space, while being made by an indie company.”
“However, it does bring a refreshing breeze to the table as there are complex and diverse mechanics to keep in mind (two lanes, multiple types of resources, avatar traits & powers, the list goes on) - allowing for intriguing strategies and deck building capabilities!”
“I absolutely hate trying to learn a brand-new game versus other people who have been playing for far longer, and thus, have a considerable grasp of the mechanics of the game and just stomp you.”
“Ultimately, I concede and let the video play (I still haven't let it play to the end) and realize that, aside from the dual lane system, the gameplay is standard card game fare.”
“Balance feels slightly lacking at the moment and the bugs are pretty much omnipresent, but the 1v1 casual gameplay is working and feels complete.”
- graphics13 mentions
- 69 % positive mentions
- 8 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received high praise for their intricate and detailed artwork, which effectively evokes a sense of danger and adventure. Many users appreciate the dark horror and fantasy themes, noting the impressive card designs and overall visual presentation, although some suggest that animations could be improved. Overall, the visuals are considered a standout feature that enhances the gameplay experience.
“The dark horror and fantasy themed artwork and graphics are great and you get some cool creepy voiceovers when some cards are played to add to the atmosphere.”
“Beautiful artwork and well thought out rules that add extra dimensions to the genre.”
“Visuals and animations could use some sharpening up.”
“The intricate artwork is incredibly detailed and evokes a sense of danger and adventure, making the game both visually and mechanically engaging.”
“It's easy to tell that the developers have a genuine fondness for card games and influences from games like Magic: The Gathering are very clear in both the mechanics and artwork.”
- monetization5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -20 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The monetization model of the game is generally well-received, with players appreciating the fair approach and transparency from the developers regarding content unlocks and future plans. In-game purchases are confirmed to be purely cosmetic, and there are no microtransactions, which enhances the overall experience. Players also anticipate potential DLC for additional characters.
“Thank you for the amazing game and fair monetization.”
“Also, the developer's transparency around their monetization goals - be it the justification toward content unlocks itself or their roadmap work-in-progress, is definitely a welcome sight.”
“The game features nice art, easy unlockable cards, and no microtransactions.”
“Pay for ads!”
“The developer's transparency around their monetization goals - be it the justification toward content unlocks or their roadmap work-in-progress, is definitely a welcome sight.”
“The dev has assured that in-game purchases will be purely cosmetic, although I can see DLC with more characters coming in the future.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is characterized by its dark horror and fantasy-themed artwork, enhanced by eerie voiceovers that contribute to a rich, immersive experience. Players appreciate the lush, brooding environment that heightens the stakes, making every mistake feel significant.
“The dark horror and fantasy-themed artwork and graphics are great, and you get some cool, creepy voiceovers when some cards are played to add to the atmosphere.”
“Lush, dark, and brooding atmosphere where mistakes will cost you dearly.”
“The dark horror and fantasy themed artwork and graphics are great, and you get some cool creepy voiceovers when some cards are played to add to the atmosphere.”
“Lush dark and brooding atmosphere where mistakes will cost you dearly.”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game is reported to be quite buggy, with users experiencing issues such as freezing during initial loading, which can lead to confusion about whether the game is functioning properly. Players should be prepared for these stability problems as part of the experience.
“The game is buggy; you must accept that.”
“When I first loaded into the game, it froze, making me think it wasn't loading. Just wait, it eventually does.”
- music2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The music and sound effects in the game are noted as needing significant improvement, with many elements lacking sound altogether. However, the art and overall musical setting are considered intriguing and add to the game's appeal.
“Art, music, and the game's setting in general are also quite intriguing.”
“Music and sound effects need a lot of work - a lot of things don't have sound effects at all yet.”
“The music feels repetitive and lacks variety, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“The soundtrack doesn't match the game's atmosphere, which detracts from the overall experience.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is enjoyable but requires better optimization to run smoothly on low-spec systems.
“The game is enjoyable, but it requires better optimization for low-spec gamers.”
“I appreciate the gameplay, but optimization for lower-end systems is essential.”
“While the game is fun, it could greatly benefit from optimization to run smoothly on less powerful hardware.”
- story1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story is highly praised for its rich world-building and engaging backstory, which captivates players and enhances their overall experience.
“I just love the world created and the backstory!”
“The narrative is incredibly engaging and keeps you hooked from start to finish.”
“The character development is profound, making you truly care about their journeys.”
