Torn Tales
- January 17, 2017
- Twistplay
"Torn Tales" is a real-time squad based RPG where you lead a party of three heroes, including Robin Hood, Snow White, and Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde, on a quest to repair the torn pages of folklore. Battle across fabled lands filled with enemies, upgrade characters with rich abilities, and explore to collect loot with various unique variations. Compete with other players in Arena mode with global leaderboards.
Reviews
- The game features an interesting concept with a unique twist on classic fairy tales, providing an engaging narrative and character dynamics.
- The graphics and voice acting are well-executed, contributing to an enjoyable atmosphere and immersive experience.
- The skill system allows for some customization and tactical gameplay, enabling players to adapt their characters' abilities to different situations.
- The gameplay is often repetitive and lacks depth, with limited inventory options and no meaningful loot management or crafting systems.
- There are significant technical issues, including poor AI behavior, bugs that prevent progression, and performance problems leading to low frame rates.
- Combat can feel simplistic and unengaging, resembling a clicker game rather than a traditional action RPG, which detracts from the overall experience.
- story32 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- 72 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players finding it basic yet enjoyable, while others criticize its lack of depth and engagement. The narrative is primarily delivered through segments between levels, which some feel disconnects gameplay from the story. However, the unique premise involving an evil storyteller and a blend of classic characters has been appreciated, suggesting potential for a more compelling experience if better integrated into the gameplay.
“The story is based around an evil story writer who mashes together three stories in an attempt for revenge; Robin Hood (the hybrid), Snow White (the mage), and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde (the tank/bruiser) are together in a team to try and fight their way through to the truth.”
“The idea: I've never seen something like this before in a game; the story is definitely an original one, something I love to see in indie games.”
“From what I've played so far, I can already tell that the game's unique concept will keep me hooked - those looking for an interesting and ever-so-slightly dark story will not be disappointed.”
“You simply cannot get into a certain area, cannot complete the mission, and cannot progress the story.”
“The whole story is told in narrative segments inserted between the various levels, and only sparsely supported by encounters in the game; most of what the player will be doing is completely unrelated to the story.”
“This game lacks any sort of interaction or storylines during a quest; this is something that really needed to be added to the game, as it helps the player stay engaged and willing to continue.”
- gameplay21 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with some players finding it slow, repetitive, and overly simplistic, often likening it to a clicker game. However, others appreciate its casual appeal and the unique charm it brings, noting that it combines elements of hack-and-slash, MMO, and RPG genres effectively. While the mechanics may not be deep, the game offers a visually appealing experience suitable for casual play.
“Honestly, both the story and gameplay are awesome.”
“The game works well, employing hack n' slash MMO and RPG games into one; the wide range of weapons and levels give way to hours of gameplay and endless amounts of exploration.”
“Its pretty to look at, and though gameplay is linear and at times can feel like a click fest, it can be fun for casual ARPG players or those looking for something with a tactical focus.”
“Such a rich and interesting setting, yet such dry, repetitive, and boring gameplay.”
“In my first two hours of playing, everything seems repetitive (sound effects, music, gameplay).”
“Perhaps the biggest disappointments are a lack of loot farming and the click-fest nature of gameplay.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews; while some players appreciate the artistic style and well-executed narrative segments, others criticize the overall quality as basic or underwhelming, particularly on higher-end PCs. Despite some characters appearing fuzzy, many users acknowledge the effort put into creating visually pleasing environments, suggesting potential for improvement. Overall, the graphics are described as decent but inconsistent.
“Some of the graphics are very well done, especially during the narrative segments, and the style is overall quite interesting and competent.”
“Artwork, graphics, and audio are pleasing and present a wonderful fairy-tale-esque ambience.”
“The graphics: the characters look a little fuzzy and small on the screen, but overall I love the look of the game; the developers clearly spent a lot of time on making each map look pleasing to the eye.”
“The graphics are basic.”
“It is kind of a watered-down version; the graphics are bad and it runs poorly on a higher-end PC.”
“The characters look a little fuzzy and small on the screen.”
- music6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally described as soothing and simple, with an indie instrumental vibe that adapts to different gameplay situations. While it features orchestral elements and effective sound effects, many reviewers find it repetitive and not particularly exceptional, serving more as a functional backdrop than a standout feature.
“Were I to compare this to music, it would be a simple, soothing indie instrumental track.”
“Nice, easy-going music which changes depending on the game situation.”
“Music in the game follows an orchestral or ensemble setup, with ample drums to set the mood of combat and challenge.”
“In my first two hours of playing, everything seems repetitive (sound effects, music, gameplay).”
“Music in the game follows an orchestral or ensemble setup, with ample drums to set the mood of combat and challenge, but isn’t particularly exceptional in any way.”
“The game needs music that evolves over time as the game progresses.”
- grinding5 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players note that the game features a grindy RPG combat system reminiscent of traditional JRPGs and MMORPGs, requiring some grinding to keep pace with leveling enemies. However, there is a significant lack of loot farming opportunities, leading to disappointment for those seeking a more rewarding grinding experience. Overall, while the game functions well, it may not satisfy players looking for extensive grinding and loot collection.
“I noticed that the mobs gradually grew in levels more than my characters, so it does require a bit of grinding.”
“Perhaps the biggest disappointments are a lack of loot farming and the click-fest nature of gameplay.”
“Overall, the different components of the game work very well, but if you are after more of a loot-farming, level-grinding experience, then I suggest you look elsewhere.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Users report occasional glitches that prevent some sound effects from playing, and when they do function, the sound effects lack descriptive quality.
“Sometimes there are glitches that prevent certain sound effects from playing, and when they do play, they lack clarity.”
“The game frequently crashes, making it nearly impossible to progress without losing progress.”
“I encountered numerous bugs that disrupted gameplay, leading to a frustrating experience overall.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the addition of a hardcore mode, which enhances replayability by offering a more challenging experience.
“The hardcore mode adds replayability and offers a more challenging experience.”
“Each playthrough feels unique, thanks to the diverse choices and outcomes available.”
“The game encourages multiple runs with its branching storylines and varied character builds.”
“Hardcore mode adds replayability and seems to be more challenging.”
“The game lacks meaningful choices, making it feel repetitive on subsequent playthroughs.”
“Once you've completed the main story, there's little incentive to return.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the game's fairy tale humor unexpectedly entertaining, often leading to genuine laughter and enjoyment.
“I'm really enjoying this game; I never thought I'd laugh so hard at fairy tale humor.”
“The witty dialogue and clever puns had me chuckling throughout my playthrough.”
“The humor is spot-on, blending absurdity with clever references that kept me entertained.”