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Thronefall is a minimalist tower defence game that is addictive as hell! This simple game is surprisingly deep and tough to put down. What’s more, there is a leaderboard to top and many challenges to complete. Accordingly, though it appears understated at first glance, there is much more than first meets the eye.
Developed and published by GrizzlyGames, this is an indie tower defence title with base-building mechanics. What’s more, it requires a tactical mindset if you are to complete every object. As such, this is the perfect endeavour, whether you are a genre newbie or a renowned veteran.
Thronefall has no story!
A deep and rich story isn’t always necessary. However, no story at all is more than a little unusual. Yet, this is exactly what you get when you play Thronefall. For reasons unknown, you are riding around different kingdoms without a guard, army, or any royal entourage. Instead, it is your royal duty to rebuild your castle and protect it at all costs.
As the King, you thrive on power. However, each of your kingdoms is being attacked by random monsters. This alone is bad enough, but if they manage to destroy your castle, your reign is all but over. Consequently, you are required to spend your limited gold supply on new troops, defences, and ways of enhancing your income. If you can do this wisely, you may survive the onslaught and advance to the next arena.
How you survive is your choice!
At the start of each run, you are presented with a range of perks, weapons, and mutations. These elements are key to how easy or difficult each attempt will be. Will you arm yourself with a bow and enhance your combat options, or will you prefer close-quarter combat? Alternatively, will you improve your armour and power, or will you increase your productivity and earning potential? Whatever you decide will alter the course of each playthrough whilst adjusting your tactical mindset.
Alongside this, you can select mutations to make your enemies much tougher. Each of these core concepts is essential, as every one of them must be utilised to complete each stage. Subsequently, you must complete every set objective if you wish to save your kingdom. This is a difficult ask as increasing your enemies’ health and power requires a lot of luck and plenty of planning. Yet, if you get things right, the outcome is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Improve your base and start each battle.
Every playthrough comprises a fixed number of battles. Furthermore, each fight takes place after you complete the planning stage. During this peaceful time, you are free to build houses, production lines, barracks, defences, and towers. Each of these items costs money that you earn by defeating your foes and keeping your production buildings and houses safe. As such, the better your defences, the more you can earn, and the more you can invest.
Once you are happy with your base layout, you can move your troops to the highlighted areas of assault. Here you can maximise your defensive duties by placing knights, soldiers, and ranged troops correctly. However, if you make an error, you can alter your troops at any point during the heat of the battle.
In the heat of the battle, your troops are automated. This was a great choice, as you are free to roam the battlefield and slaughter anyone in sight. Furthermore, you can orchestrate your troops to maximise your defensive potential. Yet, if you are killed or your base is destroyed, it is game over and you must start the stage again.
Thronefall looks great.
The isometric viewpoint and vivid colours complement one another. Additionally, the clean sprites and unique backdrops prevent this from becoming tedious. Furthermore, the animation is smooth, and I didn’t experience any performance issues. These elements are supported by the excellent stage design. Every chapter has its own setup, and this kept you on your toes. As such, though the gameplay loop was familiar, the action rarely felt strained or repetitive.
The audio is just as good. The simple but folksy soundtrack suits the rudimentary medieval gameplay. Moreover, the sharp and obnoxious sound effects are harsh, cruel, and brilliantly cold. Subsequently, I adored the blunt bludgeoning of every melee weapon. What’s more, who doesn’t love the twang of a bow as it annihilates its target?
It runs perfectly on Steam Deck.
I adore a great Steam Deck title. Thankfully, Thronefall plays wonderfully on this platform. Furthermore, it excels on PC as well. Consequently, it mattered not what input method you use; the game is just as easy to pick up and play either way.
Though Thronefall is a short game, it is addictive as hell. Additionally, there is plenty of replay value and longevity because of the different perks, weapons, and mutations. These modifiers alter every element of the gameplay and will keep you on your toes. Alongside this, a friendly leaderboard will test your score against that of your friends.
Thronefall is a great indie title.
I was sold by the genre and its Steam Deck validation. There is nothing better than playing a smooth and well-considered tower defence game. Luckily, Thronefall ticks these boxes as you try to protect your kingdom from hellish creatures. I adored the aesthetics and the straightforward action. What’s more, it is tough to put down and can be enjoyed casually. Accordingly, I cherished my time with it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you save your kingdom? Plan your approach, kill every demonic wave, and save the day.
