The Astonishing Game
- February 6, 2017
- Turbo Tape Games
Get on SteamThe Astonishing is a turn-based tactical board-game that will challenge new to veteran gamers. Participate in competitions for great prizes, including signed albums, tickets and post-concert passes, available to players during the Dream Theater tours. The game has a one-time purchase cost with no in-app purchases, making players eligible for any and all free upgrades.
iPad
iPhone
Mac OS
PC
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Windows
Linux
Mobile Platform
Reviews
- The gameplay is unique and refreshing, combining elements of chess with strategic troop management and character abilities.
- The soundtrack features instrumental music from Dream Theater's 'The Astonishing' album, enhancing the overall experience for fans.
- The game offers both local and online multiplayer options, allowing for enjoyable strategic battles with friends.
- The tutorial is confusing and does not adequately teach players how to master the game, leading to a steep learning curve.
- Graphics and animations are lacking, with some menus containing typos and unit sounds that clash with the background music.
- The game has been removed from the app store, limiting accessibility for potential players who prefer mobile gaming.
- music14 mentions
- 64 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise, particularly for its engaging soundtrack featuring instrumental mixes from the band Dream Theater, which enhances the strategic gameplay experience. Players appreciate the nostalgic value and quality of the music, although some noted that the sound of militia units can clash with the otherwise enjoyable background tracks. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature that adds depth and enjoyment to the game.
“This game was a major change in the normal experience I have with many other games in this modern age and also allowed me to enjoy and bask in nostalgia for the band that I have listened to so much in the past with its wonderful soundtrack.”
“Thank you Dream Theater for your beautiful music, and thank you Turbo Tape for this wonderful game!”
“The soundtrack also features instrumentals from the astonishing album and is very fun to listen to as you are demotivating your enemies.”
“Chess and Magic: The Gathering combined, Dream Theater music as soundtrack.”
“Chess and Magic: The Gathering combined, Dream Theater music as soundtrack.”
- gameplay8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its unique and fresh mechanics, featuring customizable boards and diverse character selections that ensure each match feels distinct and engaging. While some players note a simplistic style reminiscent of chess with magical elements, the overall experience is enjoyable, with minor suggestions for improvement in visual cues. However, a few reviewers found the gameplay to be standard for a turn-based strategy, lacking in innovation.
“The gameplay is very unique and unlike any other game on the market.”
“With the customization of the boards, selection of different characters, and randomness in the AI, every match will be different, providing a very interesting and never boring gameplay loop.”
“The gameplay loop is also very fresh.”
“Even with the tutorial, it will take a few playthroughs to get the mechanics down.”
“I can't really think of any gameplay flaws, but I would like for the tile highlighting a piece's attack to be a better color.”
“Sure, maybe it's a simplistic style of gameplay, chess mixed with some magic, but honestly, it really shouldn't matter.”
- story5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The game's story mode allows players to choose between two factions, the Ravenskill and the Gnfa, as they navigate a narrative that expands on the themes of the accompanying album. While it effectively conveys a compelling story, some animations are noted as being subpar, and the game struggles with inconsistencies in addressing its violent themes. Overall, the storytelling is appreciated for its depth, despite some execution flaws.
“It does a good job telling the story of the album, going into better detail than the lyrics of the songs.”
“To see that they have a game, especially about such a compelling story, just means that they are that great.”
“The game tries too hard to avoid references to violence and death while telling a story that involves violence and death.”
“Animations between story chapters are a bit sloppy.”
“You can also continue this fight in the game's rather short story mode where you can choose to play as the Ravenskill or the Gnfa as you try to motivate the country to your side.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are considered somewhat lacking, though it's important to note that it was developed by a small studio and released in 2017, which may explain the limitations in visual quality.
“I feel that the graphics could be better, but then again, you have to keep in mind that this game was published by a very small studio in 2017 (4 years ago).”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game elicits significant laughter, particularly during moments like the dancer's attack, which many players found hilarious and worth the price. However, despite these humorous highlights, some users still hesitate to recommend the game due to its current state.
“I can't recommend this game in its current state, but it gave me a big amount of laughs as soon as the dancer attacked. That was hilarious and worth the money!”
- monetization1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features a straightforward monetization model with no in-app purchases, allowing players to compete for real prizes simply by purchasing the game.
“Plus, there are no in-app purchases, and buying the game allows you to enter competitions for real prizes.”
