Relic Space
- July 19, 2024
- Fourfold Games
"Relic Space" is a turn-based roguelike RPG with 4X strategy elements, where you help rebuild civilization after a galactic catastrophe as a legendary Omega pilot. Engage in tactical space combat with hex-based movement, and experience realistic combat mechanics that simulate damage to individual ship components. Explore a procedurally generated solar system with handcrafted elements and acquire new ships while upgrading them with hundreds of equipment options.
Reviews
- The game features a fun mix of tactical turn-based combat and RPG elements, providing depth and strategic gameplay.
- Players appreciate the freedom of exploration and the ability to upgrade their ships, which adds to the overall enjoyment.
- The game has a solid foundation with a unique fight system and engaging mechanics, making it a promising title for future development.
- The game suffers from bugs and UI deficiencies, which can disrupt gameplay and make navigation cumbersome.
- Combat becomes repetitive over time, leading to a feeling of grinding rather than engaging tactical challenges.
- Many players feel the game is unfinished, lacking content and polish, particularly in terms of mission variety and overall balance.
- story29 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 76 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The game's story is set in a vast, open galaxy embroiled in conflict among three main factions, with players engaging in procedural missions that influence faction standings and unlock better gear. While the backstory is intriguing and the ambient storytelling is well-received, many players note that the main narrative is incomplete and that mission variety is lacking, leading to repetitive gameplay. Overall, the exploration and faction dynamics are engaging, but there is a strong desire for a more developed storyline and greater player agency in shaping the narrative.
“The gameplay really feels like a classic turn-based roguelike, but unlike Xenomarine (the first title from Fourfold Games), you're not lurking in a dungeon like a derelict ship, but have an open galaxy, with many sectors and procedurally generated missions, amidst a war between three main factions, and a bunch of political tensions (and more side quests) with minor factions.”
“Exploring the galaxy feels always interesting and challenging, and the background story is quite entertaining.”
“It's like it also has an interesting story, as the battles get a little tense at times, even more so when you get massively outgunned in an ambush, which is where strategy comes into play.”
“Sadly, the main story is not done yet.”
“The story isn't complete (yet), but procedural quests give you things to do.”
“Graphics are pretty decent... just the game is crying out for a storyline and/or sandbox mode.”
- gameplay6 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Relic Space is praised for its engaging blend of classic turn-based roguelike elements and innovative mechanics, set in an expansive, procedurally generated galaxy. Players navigate complex air maneuvers and manage resources like energy and heat while engaging in combat, with a skill tree and ship upgrades adding depth. The game successfully balances accessibility and fun, making it a standout indie title.
“This is one of those indie gems that's filled with quirky ideas and interesting mechanics that the devs cared about making accessible, optimized, and fun.”
“The gameplay really feels like a classic turn-based roguelike, but unlike Xenomarine (the first title from Fourfold Games), you're not lurking in a dungeon like a derelict ship, but have an open galaxy, with many sectors and procedurally generated missions, amidst a war between three main factions, and a bunch of political tensions (and more side quests) with minor factions.”
“Without being anything out of this world, it manages to represent complex air maneuvers, energy and heat management mechanics (you can overheat your ship or run out of fuel), shield and hull damage, etc. You also get a skill tree for your character and ship upgrades, including different hulls and a number of systems and weapons.”
“Add a rarity mechanic to ships, not only for equipment.”
- music4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its quality, standing out from typical background noise found in many space games. Players appreciate the engaging soundtrack so much that some have purchased it, highlighting its contribution to the overall enjoyment and immersive experience of the game.
“Even the music is good; not that quasi-dreamy background noise most space games throw in as an afterthought.”
“I actually bought the soundtrack during the launch day sale, and that's odd for me.”
“I love the control system and the ambient music and storytelling.”
“The soundtrack is underwhelming and fails to leave a lasting impression.”
“The music feels repetitive and lacks variety, making it easy to tune out.”
“I expected more from the soundtrack; it doesn't enhance the gameplay experience.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are generally considered decent, with appealing ship designs and a fun avatar creation feature. However, as an indie title, players should not expect breathtaking visuals, and some feel that the game would benefit from a stronger storyline or sandbox mode.
“The 3D graphics are impressive and add a lot to the overall experience.”
“Graphics are pretty decent, enhancing the gameplay experience.”
“The ship designs are cool and well-executed, contributing positively to the game's visual appeal.”
“The 3D graphics are underwhelming.”
“Graphics are pretty decent, but the game is crying out for a storyline and/or sandbox mode.”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's stability is criticized for being buggy and slow, with users reporting occasional confusion in controls and user interface. However, they acknowledge that the core gameplay loop is well-defined.
“Buggy and slow.”
“Sometimes buggy, sometimes confusing in controls and UI/UX, but the core loop is already clearly traced.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players often find that the grinding in the game can feel excessive, leading to a realization that they are engaged in a farming-like experience after several hours of play.
“But then, after 4-5 hours, you realize that you just got yourself into a farming game.”
“The grinding feels endless, and it quickly becomes a chore rather than a fun challenge.”
“I spent hours grinding for resources, only to find out it was all for a minor upgrade.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its thoughtful optimization, ensuring that its quirky ideas and interesting mechanics are both accessible and enjoyable for players.
“This is one of those indie gems that's filled with quirky ideas and interesting mechanics that the devs cared about making accessible, optimized, and fun.”