Star Dynasties
- September 1, 2021
- Pawley Games
- 9h median play time
Get on Steam"Star Dynasties" is a strategy role-playing game set in a future where humanity has colonized the stars. Players must navigate political intrigue, form alliances, and make difficult decisions as they try to secure their family's power and influence in a fragile feudal society. The game emphasizes character development, diplomacy, and storytelling in a procedurally generated universe, providing a unique experience with each playthrough.
Reviews
- The game offers a unique blend of character-driven narrative and strategic gameplay, reminiscent of Crusader Kings but set in a sci-fi universe.
- The political intrigue and relationship dynamics are engaging, allowing for emergent storytelling and unexpected plot twists.
- The turn-based system allows for thoughtful decision-making, making each action feel significant and impactful.
- The user interface can be clunky and overwhelming, with too many pop-ups and notifications that disrupt the flow of gameplay.
- There is a lack of depth in gameplay mechanics, with limited actions and repetitive events that can lead to a feeling of monotony.
- The combat system relies heavily on RNG, which can lead to frustrating outcomes that feel unfair and detract from the overall experience.
- gameplay84 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 74 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating the depth and replay value offered by its unique mechanics and sandbox elements, while others criticize it for being repetitive and lacking character. Many reviews highlight the innovative combat and political systems, but also point out issues with the user interface and the obscurity of certain mechanics, which can lead to confusion. Overall, while the game has a solid foundation and potential for engaging gameplay, it requires further development and refinement to fully realize its ambitions.
“After 14 hours, I feel like I am still discovering the game mechanics in a positive way (it's a kind of adventure).”
“No other 4X game that I know of has ever managed to create 'rise-and-fall' mechanics that can perpetuate a game for as long as the player wants to develop their story; this game did it, and it did it really well.”
“The mechanics and hierarchy systems are very fun and interesting, and the lore that you find about the old civilizations is really captivating and makes you want to learn more.”
“The gameplay loop is pretty stale.”
“Less than 10 hours of gameplay and I've seen multiple repeated scenarios that feel either scripted or lacking in variety.”
“The gameplay is just not interesting at all.”
- story40 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 73 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The game's story is praised for its organic storytelling and the ability to create a "rise-and-fall" narrative that evolves over time, allowing players to engage deeply with their characters and events. However, many reviewers note that the storylines can become repetitive, lacking variety in multiple playthroughs, and sometimes the mechanics detract from the narrative experience. Overall, while the game offers a compelling character-driven plot, it falls short of its potential due to limited story options and repetitive events.
“It's simpler than your average 4X for sure, but for what it lacks in content, it makes up for in its ability as an organic storyteller.”
“The developer really nailed the emergent storytelling vibe he was going for.”
“It's solid, packs in a whole lot of roleplay storytelling; it gets you attached to characters, which makes victory all the sweeter.”
“I've managed to sit through only because I was too interested in seeing the story finish, but it's absolutely abysmal and steals the joy of playing.”
“Repetitive story lines.”
“The game seems like it fights itself; mechanics that could lead to you developing a story often lead to you instead doing something meta to satisfy the game, thus destroying the story.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are described as beautiful yet minimalistic, creating an immersive experience that enhances player connection to the game world. While the user interface is simple and clean, some feel it appears outdated, and the combat visuals are lacking, relying on a basic dice roll system. Overall, the hand-drawn artwork and thoughtful design contribute positively to the game's aesthetic, despite some critiques regarding the need for more visual variety in gameplay mechanics.
“The graphics are very nice and the UI is very simple to figure out.”
“+ beautiful but simple graphics”
“Graphics & sound: very good job was done on the hand-made graphics.”
“Combat also should be revamped since they're basically using a paper and pencil dice roll for the damage system with no visuals, no sprites, no avatars.”
“UI feels old graphically, but the level of absurd detail is not any crazier than CK3.”
“It has graphics, and game mechanics!”
- replayability8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is a mixed bag; while some players appreciate the unlimited replay potential and varied strategies offered by sandbox mechanics, others find the story events repetitive and lacking in variation after completing the game once. Random map generation and starting attributes provide some replay value, but the absence of map customization may limit long-term engagement for certain players.
“But because this game offers unlimited replayability, even a cheapo like me would consider paying full price.”
“The game mechanics add a lot of replay value, and the sandbox mechanics allow a lot of variety in strategies.”
“It does have some replay value because of the randomness of the map generation, the randomness of where you start, and the attributes of your starting archon as well as your peers, fellow dukes.”
“Low replay value (story events always the same).”
“Once you beat the game as the good guy, there's little to no replay value.”
“I enjoyed the one successful playthrough but am disappointed at zero replay value or variation.”
- music7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some users finding it underwhelming while others praise its atmospheric quality and ability to enhance the gaming experience. The main theme is particularly noted for its nostalgic resemblance to "Master of Orion 2," and overall, the soundtrack is described as enjoyable and well-suited to the game's tone.
“I love the narratives I can modify for my games and I love the music.”
“I also really like the main music theme; it reminds me a bit of Master of Orion 2 (another favorite game of mine). It really has a nice style and is very atmospheric.”
“Music is also very enjoyable, atmospheric, and not intrusive.”
“The soundtrack is... well, meh.”
“The music doesn't really stand out and feels forgettable.”
“The overall audio experience lacks variety and depth.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, particularly due to the overwhelming number of events and actions required as they progress. While some appreciate the avoidance of micromanagement, the repetitive nature of tasks can become burdensome over time.
“However, the sheer volume of events per action/turn can get a little tedious.”
“The problem is that the bigger you are, the more you are expected to do... this becomes tedious at some point.”
“I understand not wanting to micromanage every colony's building/production, which can get tedious in some games.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is praised for its immersive qualities, likened to a blend of "Crusader Kings" and space strategy, enhanced by a compelling turn-based system. The music, reminiscent of classic titles like "Master of Orion 2," contributes significantly to the overall ambiance, being both enjoyable and atmospheric. However, players feel that improvements are needed in character customization to further enrich the game's immersive experience.
“Crusader Kings in space but with a ton of atmosphere and easier to digest with the turn-based system.”
“I also really like the main music theme; it reminds me a bit of Master of Orion 2 (another favorite game of mine). It really has a nice style and is very atmospheric.”
“Music is also very enjoyable, atmospheric, and not intrusive.”
“However, major improvement is needed. Enabling renaming for people, leagues, systems, etc., and allowing portrait selections for all characters (including enemies) would greatly enhance the atmosphere. For example, it's not fun to have the noble House Atreides face off against Bob Jones.”
- stability2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game's stability is mixed, with some users reporting a solid, mostly bug-free experience at launch, while others highlight ongoing bugs and a lack of necessary updates to address these issues.
“A solid, mostly bug-free start.”
“The game runs smoothly without any major issues.”
“I appreciate the stability; it allows me to focus on gameplay without interruptions.”
“The game is buggy and not receiving the updates needed to correct the issues.”
“Frequent crashes make it nearly unplayable.”
“I experience constant lag and instability, which ruins the overall experience.”
- humor2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently praised, with users finding it genuinely funny and enjoyable.
“The humor in this game is absolutely hilarious!”
“I couldn't stop laughing at the witty dialogue and clever jokes.”
“The comedic timing and absurd situations had me in stitches!”
- optimization2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game has significant optimization issues, particularly in the late game, leading to a lack of control over character actions and confusing gameplay mechanics. Additionally, players note the absence of essential features that detract from the overall experience.
“The game is enjoyable, but I believe it requires significant improvements, particularly in the optimization of the late game.”
“The optimization features really enhance the gameplay experience, making it smoother and more enjoyable.”
“I appreciate the developers' focus on optimization, as it has greatly improved performance and reduced lag.”
“It's pretty fun, but I do think it needs a lot of fixing, such as optimization of the late game.”
“The game isn't optimized; there is a lack of features, and I don't feel like I'm in control of my character. Also, some things don't make sense, like why every person in my government has to be in my house.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is marked by the potential for significant consequences based on player choices, particularly in relation to military and security traits, which can lead to targeted hostility from other characters. However, players express a desire for deeper political and character development, as well as more strategic planning elements, rather than focusing primarily on reputation management and punitive actions.
“Want to design a custom character that is beyond hated because of the role-playing character development points you've selected (that usually boost military and security) - prepare to be a target for immediate assassination and overthrow.”
“The events can be interesting and have some unforeseen consequences, which I think are pretty good and add some interest to the game every few turns. However, I would like to see much more depth in terms of the politics, character development, planetary development, and general planning for the future of your empire, as opposed to simply trying to manage your reputation and spending all of your action points fining dukes every turn.”
“Want to design a custom character that is beyond hated because of the RPG character development points you've selected (that usually boost military and security) - prepare to be a target for immediate assassination and overthrow.”
“The events can be interesting and have some unforeseen consequences, which I think are pretty good and add some interest to the game every few turns, but I would like to see much more depth in terms of the politics, character development, planetary development, and general planning for the future of your empire as opposed to simply trying to manage your reputation and spending all of your action points fining dukes every turn.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users find it challenging to connect emotionally with gameplay that revolves around abstract concepts like numbers on a map, as it diminishes the sense of personal investment in defending or conquering territories.
“The game masterfully weaves a narrative that pulls at your heartstrings, making you truly care about the characters and their journeys.”
“I found myself deeply invested in the story, feeling a range of emotions from joy to heartbreak as I progressed.”
“The emotional depth of the game is astounding; it made me reflect on my own experiences and relationships.”
