I was sent a copy of Old Skies to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.
Time travel is real, and is controlled by the ChronoZen agency. Those who can afford it can travel back into any time, provided it doesn’t mess with the master timeline. Your job is to keep close watch on these travelers while still making them happy. The story follows seven travelers across 100s of years of history in a point and click adventure you will never forget. What people will you meet? What stories will they tell? Can you keep your clients from messing with the timeline?
Review
Old Skiesis a wonderful piece of interactive fiction that you need to try at least once. The game looks very good with cool art and flavorful time periods. The story itself is good, with a cast of fantastic voice actors to bring each story to life. Most importantly, the puzzles are creative and manageable. They provide enough of a challenge to keep things engaging, without becoming frustrating. I didn’t feel the need to use a guide, but I am sure there are some great ones out there if you need them.
As far as time travel stories go, Old Skiesdoes the narrative well. Everything made sense, even the more magical parts of science, and it was an interesting adventure to read. The characters are pretty well written. There are some cliches here and there, but nothing that ruins the story. Each story was interesting, and honestly the reason I kept playing. It is a solid length and I recommend it to anyone looking for a new visual novel.
As for the Steam Deck experience, this is a fantastic title to add to the collection. The resolution is perfect. The words are legible, and everything is easily visible. Most importantly, the controls works great, making this the perfect game to play in bed when you just want to wind down and enjoy a good story.
You can pick up Old Skiesfor $19.99, and it is definitely worth it for that price.
I was sent a free copy of Gal Guardians: Servants of the Dark to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest opinions of the game.
The castle has been invaded and Lord Maxim is dead. It is up to Kirika and Masha to make their way through the castle and revive their lord. Fight through waves of demons and their bosses, collect helpful tools and abilities, and prove why you are the best pair of demon maids Do you have what it takes to reclaim your home and save your master?
Gameplay
Gal Guardians is your typical classic metroidvania. Players crawl through the 2D dungeon, collect new items and abilities, and beat everything in their way. What makes Gal Guardians unique is the coop mechanic. Players can play this game solo, or team up with a friend to control one of the two maids. Coop allows for some interesting interactions between the players. Playing solo allows players to switch between the two maids and their abilities, as well as revive them when they go down. The game also showers the player with loot and allows for a good amount of customization and playstyles.
Review
I really wanted to like Gal Guardians: Shadows of the Dark, but it doesn’t do enough to stand out against the genre. I love the art and flavor, there is some solid voice acting, but the gameplay sort of falls flat.
What I like about the gameplay is the amount of customization. Aside from the main weapon, players can mix and match abilities to find a build that works best for their playstyle. Unfortunately, there are some absolute garbage items that will flood your inventory. Aside from that, combat is kind of boring. It is no where near the worst of the genre, but it does leave a bit to be desired. This is especially noticeable during the boss fights which can be challenging, but aren’t really worth the trouble.
I had high hopes for the game because I enjoyed the demo, but once I got deeper in the game, it didn’t do enough. It had decent writing, the voice acting is great, and the art is good, but the gameplay didn’t do it for me. Gal Guardians isn’t the worst Metroidvania I’ve played this year, but I will forget I ever played it. If you’re looking for a new Metroidvania, you simply have better options.
I was sent an early alpha build of Frozen Shipto review for my blog. I understand the game isn’t done yet, so I will be a bit more lenient with my review. That said, these will still be my honest first impressions.
Frozen Shipis a survival game with village management elements coming soon to Steam Early Access.
An eternal tundra has devastated humanity. Some were fortunate to find refuge near the warmth of a volcano, but that warmth was only temporary. In their efforts to continue surviving, they have built a giant ship that will take them to their new home. Navigate the deadly tundra as you captain your colony of survivors, gather resources, upgrade your facilities, and find the last remaining hope for salvation. What will you find against this frozen landscape?
Gameplay
There are two parts to this game, village management and exploration.
As captain of this frozen ship, players will need to command their colony to gather and process materials or build upgrades. Resources are scares, so efficiently utilizing what is available is key for humanities survival. Most importantly, players must keep hope alive to keep the colony from collapsing. As players traverse the tundra, the colony will grow, and this growth will bring its challenges as it puts a strain on systems players put in place.
The other part of this game is exploration. Players can get off the ship throughout the warmer parts of the day to scavenge the remains of the old world. Players can build tools to gather resources or scavenge from buildings. The cold is brutal and staying out in the elements for too long means death. To add to the difficulty, the ship does not stop moving. Players must navigate the cold, but also make sure they can always find their way back to the ship.
The main game will have a story, but the demo only allowed a limited free build mode with a good amount of direction.
Impressions
In its current state, Frozen Shipdoesn’t have enough to it to keep me excited. The village management aspect is more of a text based game. Its not a bad way to do things, especially since the main game is exploration, but I like to watch my villagers do things. The exploration is fine, but the world feels too empty. I do like that the game lets players adjust the difficulty for the ideal experience. I get lost easily so I appreciate that there is a mode that guides me back to the ship. I also appreciate the options for a more hardcore play through for the times I’m feeling more sadistic.
Graphics-wise, the world makes sense but it isn’t anything special. You’re either going to appreciate the low-poly style or you are going to play a more realistic looking game. I am sure this is a choice to ensure good performance, but also makes the world a little less fun to explore.
The cold mechanic is fine. Eventually players will have the ability to extend the amount of time they can spend in the tundra, but those early levels feel tedious. Having to return every time you clear a single house is boring. I can see the intention. The game is supposed to be a hard journey and resources are meant to be scares, but when the art style is boring and the world feels too empty, it just feels like a chore.
I also don’t recommend playing this game on the Steam Deck. At the moment, some of the tasks feel very tedious with a controller. You will need to remap, and even then it is just better to play with a keyboard and mouse.
I need to see more of the game before I can feel confident in recommending it. If you are looking for some hardcore survival and don’t mind the village builder elements, I would wait for the demo. I’ll try to get a different build and will return with my update. Until then, you can wishlist Frozen Shipon Steam.
I was sent a free copy of Asgard’s Fall — Viking Survivorsto review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This game is still in Early access, so I will try to be a bit more lenient than normal.
Choose your hero as you wage war against the gods. Harnes your strength as you take on endless hordes of enemies. How far will you wrath take you? Will you be the fall of Asgard?
Gameplay
Players start each run by choosing a hero. There is only one option at the start of each game, but more can be unlocked by playing the game, with more characters planed for a later release. Players will start the game with the same basic attack and a dodge, but will unlock random passive and active abilities as they play. The RNG feels very fair, and each round felt unique. There is also special Twitch integration that allows a streamer’s audience influence the blessings received throughout a game for an extra level of craziness.
The goal of the game is to survive until the final boss fight. Beating the boss means unlocking more areas, and dying during a run means starting over. It is simple game with enough depth to keep things interesting, and in a very good place in its early access.
Review
If you are looking for a new survival game, Asgard’s Fallis a very strong contender. The art is cute without sacrificing on any of its Nordic flavor. I am a huge fan of how much flavor has gone into the spells and abilities. Most importantly, Asgard’s Fall is a fun game that you won’t regret supporting. A lot of the survival game’s I’ve played will start slow and ramp up to the insanity. This initial lull can make or break the game, but Asgard’s Fall doesn’t have that. The game starts at a great pace, and it has a solid ramp to keep things interesting.
Building my hero is what makes this game for me. Like most games of the genre, players will unlock random abilities and buffs throughout a run. What makes Asgard’s Fall unique is how you can build a skill tree by filling a web of nodes. The nodes can interact with each other and generate more power. I have never sat to consider my build as much as I did with this game, and that is a very good thing.
I hadn’t realized how long I had been playing this game until I pulled from my trance. I had so much fun with this game that I will have a hard time setting it down. If you’re weary about the Early Access status, don’t be. This game is in a very good place with enough content to make it worth the price tag. There is also a good amount of content on the horizon.
If you haven’t done so, go check out Asgard’s Fall. This is a great addition to any collection. You can pick up Asgard’s Fall — Viking Survivorson Steam Early Access for only $6.99. There is also a demo available if you don’t believe me. The full game releases next year.
Epomaker sent me the TH65 Mag to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check out my latest reviews for the Epomaker TH85 and HE68.
What’s in the box?
HE65 Magnetic Keyboard
2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
2 Extra Switches
Key/Switch Puller
Plastic Dust Cover
User Manual
Features
The Epomaker HE65 Mag is the companies compact 65% hall effect gaming keyboard. It only comes in black, with a splash of blue and grey keys to help it stand out. It wouldn’t be a gaming keyboard without RBG, and the keyboard comes with a few preset profiles to make the HE65 shine against any aesthetic. Personally, I appreciate the dongle cubby in the back an the volume control on the side. What makes the HE65 unique is the onboard screen that displays the date, time, and battery life.
But the HE65 is more than just its looks. The keyboard boasts low latency on its wired and wireless connections, making it the ideal choice for the competitive gamer who needs a smaller keyboard. The keys utilize its soft magnetic switches, which can be programed for the perfect gaming experience through the official app. Most importantly, this keyboard boasts up to 600 hours of use (without the RBG or screen) so you never have to reach for a cable unless you really want to.
Sound Test
Review
If you are looking for a keyboard this size, the Epomaker HE65 Mag works well enough. The keys feel good under my fingers, and the sound isn’t loud but satisfying all the same. The volume dial on the side looks a little weird at first, but I ended up loving it the more I used it. Aesthetically, the color scheme is fine, but you might want to buy a different set of keys if you want it to match your setup. The screen is an interesting gimmick, but I hardly used it. Its fine, but it sort of messes up the aesthetic.
As far as performance goes, its a solid keyboard for the most part. The keyboard was a little too small for my hands, and that is a personal issue. If you have big hands, you need a bigger keyboard. My thumbs were always rubbing up against each other, and it made typing uncomfortable. It worked well enough for my day to day, but I will be switching to something bigger to ease up on some of the strain.
One thing to note is that the keyboard was that the wireless connection was a little bugged. The bluetooth randomly stopped working, and I couldn’t reconnect, even with the dongle. Hard resetting seemed to solve the issue, but it is a little concerning. I don’t think this has the potential to be a lifelong keyboard, but it might be a good budget option for now.
Aside from that, the keyboard was fine. It was responsive, and it had a long battery life. Epomaker boasts a 30 hour battery life with all the lights on, and I got just about that. If you like the aesthetic and are looking for a hall effect keyboard, check out the Epomaker HE65.
You can pick up the HE 65 Mag on the official website for $89.99.
I was sent a free copy of Inaya – Life after Gods to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.
Inaya was orphaned at a young age. She was raised by an old monk who taught her to use her how to defend herself. Now, years later, she must find what is left of her tribe and fight anyone that stands in her way. Travel across the remnants of civilization the gods left behind, fight unique monster and bosses, and unlock the power of your father’s gauntlet. What secrets will you uncover? Will Inaya ever find her tribe?
Review
I typically have a gameplay section, but if you’ve played a metroidvania game, you’ve probably played a better one. Let me start with the good, because the game isn’t horrible or unplayable. Inayah has some very beautiful hand drawn art with a unique world and cool looking monsters. The skill tree system is expansive, giving players access to a wide variety of play-styles. I personally like how it has three distinct weapons that feel different, and each has a good amount of customization. That said, you have better options.
One issue I have with the game is with the voice acting. The voice acting is bad, and it distracts from the story. There is a clear attempt at creating a compelling story, but I didn’t have it in me to sit through any of the dialogue. I recommend you play the game with the volume off.
As for the gameplay, its okay, but there is nothing that you should be rushing to play. Especially at this price. It feels smooth, and there is a good amount of jumping puzzles, but its boring. Even when I bought upgrades, there were no abilities or skills that had me excited, and everything feels slow. There was also some noticeable stuttering that never killed me, but made me not want to play the game.
If you love the genre and are looking for a new game for your collection, I would try out the demo first. I think Inaya is one of those games you’ll forget because of the gameplay isn’t interesting enough. Even if you are the type of person that plays every metroidvania, I would wait for the sale. The devs are still working on the game and releasing updates, so there is hope that game will get better. Unfortunately, in its current state, it is hard to recommend because there are simply better options.
I have been running my recent campaign with Alchemy RPG, and I have a few opinions that might prove helpful if you are in the market for a new TTRPG. I have run a DND module and am currently running Mutant RPG. I also bought both modules I’ve used to run my games, but the books were given to me by the publisher to review for my blog. That said, this will be my honest review of the virtual table top.
What is Alchemy RPG
Alchemy RPG is a VTT that aims to enhance games played through theater of the mind. It provides players with not just the rules they need to run their games, but modules with striking visuals and powerful soundscapes to set the mood. The platform has an expanding library of sounds, visuals, and systems to explore, but players have the freedom to run their games with their own media. If you only run your games online, Alchemy does have voice, text, and video chat function. This is great for those who don’t want to have another program open. There are also some nifty features for content creators who like to stream their games online.
Running a game on Alchemy RPG is free. A GM can host up to three games for free, and players can create/import up to three characters. There is a paid subscription service. $8 a month or $88 a year gets you unlimited characters, campaigns and universes. Games can be run from the many available modules that can be purchased in the shop, but there is nothing stopping a game master from programing everything by hand. While GMs can make due without modules, they grant access to resource books, pre-programmed functions and items, and tailored visuals and sounds. It also saves a lot of time.
Review
Alchemy RPG has interesting functions and unique offerings that should be considered when choosing a VTT, especially when running games through theater of the mind. While the game does offer options for battle maps and quick combat, other VTT’s handle combat and battle maps better.
It took me a couple of sessions to start enjoying Alchemy, but it was mostly because I was set in my ways. I have used a few different VTTs trying to find the right home for our games. I look for something that is easy to use, even easier to teach, and has cool features for combat. At least it was at first. As we’ve grown together, combat on a map became less and less important. I enjoy the story telling part of the hobby, and my campaigns saw the shift to theater of the mind.
I made my shift to Alchemy because I wanted a VTT that let me focus on the story telling, gave me access to the rules, but was easy for my players to learn. Alchemy does all of that, and I have the option of running combat on a map if I really want to.
Setting up a campaign in Alchemy is incredibly easy. If you use the modules, you just need the funds to do so. If you have the time, inputting all the rules, creatures, items, and visuals is easy but time consuming.
Onboarding players is incredibly easy. Not everyone at my table is tech savvy, so I always try to find solutions that is the least work. The last thing I want to do is frustrate my players before the game even starts. Character creation is both systems was very easy, especially for my less savvy players. I do like that I can edit character sheets from my end if they ever gets stuck tho.
Running the actual game is great. The moving visuals create a striking backdrop, and the UI is clean and easy to navigate. Clicking through the different menues, switching between characters, and most importantly, rolling is all easy to do. The audio is a little hard to hear, but you can always add your own and at least it isn’t distracting. Most importantly, I love how easy things are to set up, like on the fly encounters, or creating new units or items.
My only complaint is that you still need a rulebook even if you buy the module. I found some of the bock of texts hard to read and navigate, especially when running a prewritten adventure. This might be the font and my dyslexia, but it is a problem I have. It is not undoable, but searching a PDF or flipping through a book is a better experience.
Overall, I love Alchemy because it doesn’t distract from the narrative. Being easy to learns means we can start quickly. Everything being preprogrammed and working properly not only cuts my prep time, it means we spend more time playing the game. If you play tabletop RPGs to create a collective story with your friends, I don’t think there is anything better than Alchemy RPG.
KiiBoom sent me the Phantom98 mechanical keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my reviews for the Moonshadow V2 and the Breeze75 if you’re looking for other great Kiiboom Product.
What’s in the Box?
Phantom98
USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
Key/Switch Puller Tools
Mini Screw Drive
2 Extra Screws
2 Extra Switches
User Manual
Sound Test
Features
The Phantom98 is Kiiboom’s stylish full-sized keyboard. The keyboard has 98 keys, which include a function bar and number pad. That means users have access to everything they need in one unique package. The Phantom98 comes in 5 colors: clear, pink, black, blue, and purple. I chose purple, but every color looks good!
The clear keys and case its futuristic design. The design truly comes alive with any of the preset RGB profiles. The RGB can be switched off for those who don’t want the light show, but the presets are so pretty, it’s going to be hard to.
But the Phantom98 is more than just its looks. Its has Bluetooth 5.0 support to eliminate the need for pesky cables, and a 2.5 GHz cable for those who need it. It has a solid wireless connection, but nothing will beat the speed of the included high quality cable. The Ghasket design is adjustable, but the default gives it the satisfying typing sound enthusiasts crave.
The keyboard can switch between Mac and Windows presets, but Mac users will need to buy new caps if they care about that kind of stuff. There is also a nifty volume control dial which is always nice to have. Now the typing angle isn’t adjustable, but the default angle and height is good enough for most cases. If you’re looking for a unique keyboard with a lot of function, you might need the Phantom98.
Review
The Phantom98 is one of the coolest looking keyboards you’ll set on your table. The clear design is so clean and seeing the inner components is very cool. It reminds of the clear gameboy colors from back in the day. Now the keys did take a bit of getting used to. The letters were a little hard to see without the backlight, and they keys felt too smooth. Once I got used to them however, it is really hard using anything else. Something about the smooth feel of the keys just feels right in a way I didn’t know was possible. It also has one of the best typing sounds around. This keyboard made typing a true joy.
As far as performance goes, I didn’t see any issues. The default typing angle was comfortable enough for the very long sessions I tend to have. The wireless and wired connections were all fast and responsive. I don’t play very competitive games, but it handled my Guild Wars 2 grind perfectly. As far as battery life goes, I was getting about 8 hours with the RGB profiles on a single charge.
My only complaint is that the lighting is a little overbearing. The thing glows up like a Christmas tree on your desk. I didn’t mind it, but people are either going to hate or love it based on personal taste. Make sure to check out my sound test video to see what it looks like with the backlight on. Other than that, the Phantom98 is a fantastic keyboard, and perfect for anyone looking for a full-sized keyboard who doesn’t mind the aesthetic. Trust me, this thing looks a lot cooler in person.
You can pick up the Phantom98 on the official KiiBoom website.
I was sent an early copy of StarVaders to preview for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, this will be my honest impressions. I also understand the game isn’t finished, so I’ll be a bit more lenient with my criticism.
StarVaders is a scifi-themed roguelike deckbuilder coming to steam on April 30th. There is a demo available if you don’t want to wait.
Aliens have invaded Earth, and you are the only one that stands in their way. Take up arms in your mech as you fend off against endless waves of alien invaders and their powerful bosses. Travel the world to collect new attacks and abilities to build the most powerful deck. Earn upgrades and abilities that will make you the hero the world needs. Can you save the world, or will you become another pile of burning scrap heap?
Gameplay
Players will choose their mech ad pilot, and fly to the parts of the world that needs them most. Like most games in the genre, players choose between nodes of encounters that help them build up their decks for an epic final battle. What makes StarVaders unique is its movement mechanics.
StarVaders is played is played on a grid. Players must use their decks to maneuver across the grid, and complete the objectives. Players have access to attack and ability cards like other games in the genre, but they also have movement cards. Finding the right balance between the types is key. Having too many attack attack or movement cards means players are wasting a turn doing nothing.
To play a card, players have access to a limited resource system, known as heat. Cards are played by paying its heat cost. What makes this system unique is that players can spend more than their available heat resistance. Doing so ends the turn immediately and burns up the card. Burned up cards go back into the deck, and clog up the hand. This creates such a cool interaction where players need to efficiently burn up cards to maximize damage while also increasing the chances of drawing into a dead hand.
Most importantly, the game features unlockables to work towards, and a couple different pilots to change up the gameplay. If you enjoy deck builders, this StarVaders should be in your Wishlist.
Impressions
If this game out today in its current state, I would still recommend it to everyone. StarVadersis the most fun you’ll have with a deck builder this year. If it isn’t already on your Wishlist, it should be. StarVaders is a day one game, and it deserves all the attention.
The game looks great. It has a fun cartoon aesthetic and cool scifi flavor. The cards and interactions are creative, and a lot of fun. I particularly like how each deck feels unique and changes up the gameplay enough to give it variety. Best of all, it is the perfect steam deck game. The controls are works well, the aspect ration is perfect, and the game is chill enough to be enjoyed anywhere.
If you need a bit more convincing, make sure you check out the demo and get hyped for April 30. Don’t forget to Wishlist!
I was sent a free copy of the Urban Shadows 2E core book to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. I will also be using my amazon affiliate links when possible. Always support your LGS, but using my link helps me out!
What is Urban Shadows?
Urban Shadowsis an award winning TTRPG that just received its second edition.
In large metropolitan cities, a supernatural society operates in the shadows. Unbeknownst to the average citizen, there is an ever presence conflict between four warring factions as they try to gain dominion over the city. The balance of power is in a state of constant flux, and the political landscape of the city is forever shifting. Fate, chance, or whatever you want to call it has brought you into the this world, and it is up to you to find your place within it. Make deals, earn and pay off your social debts, and climb your way up the ladder. Who will you become? How will you shape the cities narrative? How will you let the city shape you?
The Gist of It
This is a massive book, but the gist is this:
In Urban Shandows, players navigate the complex social network of the supernatural society of a major city. They must broker deals, climb the social ladder, and most importantly, operate in the shadows.
Whatever the city, there are four factions that fight over its dominion: Mortalis, Night, Power, and Wild.
Mortalis are the humans that find themselves in the world, either by chance or by choice. Some hunt the monsters that roam the night. Others smuggle supernatural items to sell for a profit. Others play with the idea of giving up their humanity to join this world permanently.
Power is full of the people who can wield the magic of this world. It is full of the wizards, oracles, and immortals who seek to gain more power from this world.
Night is the faction of people who have been transformed into a supernatural creature of the night, and must wrestle with this new found identity. These are the vampires, werewolves, and ghosts of the city and the smaller sects that form within them.
Wild is the faction that lives on the fringes of society that wield powerful ancient magics that rival the other factions. These are the faeries, demons, and constructs that roam the city’s shadows.
The important thing is that these factions have an established hierarchy, and the players must find their place within it. The faction a player starts with, doesn’t have to be the one they end in. They don’t even have to be the same character, there is a mechanic that allows players to retire. Climbing is not easy, and it isn’t black and white. While players can fight their way through the city for territory, there are more diplomatic approaches that might prove more efficient. Trying to change an outcome with emotion or persuasion instead of fists is just as viable, if not more. The city is always moving and changing, and players need to adapt to keep up. Whether they can shake up the foundation of the city is up to a few actions and a couple dice roles. Within those four factions are 12 unique classes for players to choose from. Each class feels unique and gives players abilities to help them navigate their social mobility. There is a lot of flavor in this game, and while you can adjust your narrative to fit your vision, the book has a lot of valuable helpful examples to get a newer Master of Ceremony (game master) started.
What sets the game apart is the focus on urban fiction, which takes players to the streets of their favorite cities at any time in history. Want to start in the present and time skip to a time of calamity? Go for it! The landscape may be in constant flux, but the narrative belongs to the city.
The Book
Review
Urban Shadowsis a very good resource for any new game master, even if you don’t plan on running the game itself. The amount of resource, examples, and detail that make this book the hefty beast that it is can easily be translated into other systems. The book spells out every mechanic and feature in a way that is easy to read and understand, and is filled some very cool art to break up the information.
The game is powered by the apocalypse system, and the system is easy to learn and teach. This is important, especially for newer players who just want to hop into the game and not worry about intricate nuances. The game has its complexity, but I feel like there was less time spent arguing about rules, and more time enjoying the world and story for what it is.
Character creation is easy with the class system, and every class feels balanced and unique. More testing is required of course, but it all felt fine for the bit that was done. I like that the game doesn’t have to revolve around combat (it can), and how creative solutions to problems can be. The death and retirement system is interesting. The on death abilities each class has makes death sting a little less, and I like that players can retire a character if they just want to try something new.
What is important to note about the system is that it is going to be a bit more roleplay heavy. Yes dice rolls will sway the narrative, but you are going to have to ask for favors, or gather clues, or broker deals in a way that is limited by your social standing. For people who are more interested in the political side of roleplay, this is a great choice with lots of room for good story telling.
If you enjoy physical media, the book is a fantastic addition to any collection. Its a good quality book with some great illustrations. As far as resource books go, you’ll have everything you need to run a good campaign. There are helpful examples, tables, and a couple cities. There is an appendix with a bunch of charts and tables for the GM that needs to create an meaningful encounter on the fly.
I’ve read a few different resource books and nothing comes close to how detailed this book is. For veteran game masters, it is a little over kill. But for those just starting out in the space, it doesn’t get any better. When I started my journey, I did hours of research. A lot of what I’ve learned is packaged neatly in this book, and while there is lot a GM will learn through practice, its a great place to start.
Urban Shadows is a little too RP heavy for my table, but we had fun running it. We enjoyed how easy everything was to pick up, and the flavor is sound. I ran my games in San Francisco because that is the city I know best, but the borrowed a couple of the examples in the books to fill its underworld. I really enjoyed the shift to Urban Fantasy. We play a lot of high fantasy with the occasional scifi story, and it was nice to explore a modern city with modern problems and a supernatural element. I’d absolutely come back to the system if prompted because there is a lot of room for good story telling, and some very epic moments.
Urban Shadows is a solid TTRPG. If you like werewolves and vampires and mitigating the intricacies of social advancement, I don’t think you can find anything better than Urban Shadows.
You can pick up Urban Shadows and related products on the official Magpie store, and on DriveThruRPG if you don’t care about physical media.
