Developer:Â Silvine Game Studios
Platform:Â Microsoft Windows
Genres: Turn-based strategy, Indie game, Strategy
Publisher:Â Silvine Game Studios
Artifice: War Tactics is a hybrid strategy game that challenges your thinking. If you enjoy Xcom but are looking for something different, this might be for you. Furthermore, the short stages and varied duties allow you to enjoy it casually while testing various tactical features. Though purists may scoff, gamers who enjoy the unexpected will be delighted by the twist on familiar and well-worn layers.
Silvine Game Studios produced and distributed this turn-based strategy game. Furthermore, it is a single-player game with an isometric viewpoint. This simple strategy allows you to track the activities and plan ahead. However, there is sometimes a lack of instruction and clarity, which might lead to unintended consequences. As a result, if you want to get the most out of this game, you’ll need to practice a lot and experiment a bit.
Artifice: War Tactics relies on the action to speak for itself
I’m sure Artifice: War Tactics has a great plot. However, I cannot recollect any memorable moments. Instead, board game-like gameplay takes center stage. Furthermore, each warrior’s unique skills, as well as the numerous jobs and objectives, focus your thoughts. As a result, if you enjoy lore-rich endeavours, you may be dissatisfied.
The action revolves around a group of soldiers that must perform a variety of difficult quests. As they explore each zone, you must defeat enemies, escort orbs, and do a variety of other tasks. If you are successful, you will go on to your next job and begin your journey again. However, failure is brutal, and if you die too often, you will lose every rare shard you possess. If this happens, the rogue-like mechanics kick in and your playthrough is over!
A game of cat and mouse
Artifice: War Tactics, like chess, takes patience and attention to detail. Each of your units may attack or move once per turn. In addition, they can pick up loot and smash nearby things. However, things are not quite so straightforward, as each hero has a distinct movement and attack pattern. If you want to improve your odds, you need become familiar with each of them.
Your opponents follow a similar pattern as they move across the board. You may not assault them right away as they move. Furthermore, your adversaries cannot attack you while you remain still. This is when tactical elements come into play. As long as you position yourself in an advantageous position, you may control the board and each mission goal. Though things frequently go wrong, you can influence specific conditions to improve your chances of success.
Failure is par for the course
I lost track of the failed playthroughs. However, each failure provides a distinct advantage that increases your chances of survival. Furthermore, as you become acquainted with each character’s strengths and flaws, you discover new ways to be successful.
Artifice: War Tactics swiftly teaches you that failure is inevitable. Regardless of how hard you try, you must recognize that sacrifice is for the greater good. As a result, purposely rushing into the crosshairs is a necessary evil. However, you must understand when to squeeze the trigger and when to keep your powder dry. Furthermore, using magic and collecting riches are critical tools for turning the tide in each combat. To complete this unusual blend of tactics and chess, you must be methodical, calm, and willing to experiment.
Artifice: War Tactics is well polished
Artifice: War Tactics is not an OTT game with stunning graphics. Instead, it’s a well-polished indie game that looks amazing on Steam Deck. The simple UI and innovative level design provide enough diversity to keep you interested. Moreover, the unique slow-motion finishing techniques were great to watch. Along with this, the character models are pleasantly diversified, which helps to overcome some of the difficult teething issues.
The weird but delightful music complements the surreal layering. The dramatic soundtrack is enjoyable to listen to. Furthermore, the twang of your bow, the slice of your sword, and the scream of each defeated foe were satisfying. The combination of sound effects was not very distinctive, but it was enough.
Excellent control
I adore it when a game runs flawlessly on Steam Deck. I know you can change the controls, but I am lazy and rarely have time to experiment. Fortunately, Artifice: War Tactics takes effect instantly. Furthermore, the well-explained controls and clearly highlighted movement/attack patterns assist you. Yes, there is some trial and error, but this improves the replayability.
Along with this, you’ll appreciate the challenging rogue-like mechanics. Each brutal playthrough is frequently cut short owing to the challenging gameplay. However, if you can extend your forces while keeping your heroes alive, you have a good chance of overcoming all obstacles and finishing your run.
Artifice: War Tactics provides a unique experience
The combination of mechanics produces a hybrid outcome and a unique experience. Though genre purists may gripe, I appreciated the novel challenge and rewarding concepts. Furthermore, the variety of characters and equipment will keep you engaged from start to finish. As a result, I enjoyed it and recommend buying it here! Can you finish every task and complete your run? Plan ahead, control the situation, and win each battle.
Review Overview
Gameplay – 83%
Story – 70%
Aesthetics – 78%
Content – 80%
Accessibility – 76%
Value – 85%
Overall Rating – 80%
Strategically Solid
Summary: Artifice: War Tactics is an interesting combination of XCOM and chess. This hybrid approach may irritate purists, but I enjoyed the rogue-like features and hard gameplay. Additionally, it works flawlessly on Steam Deck.