Roguebook for Windows

Escape a magical book with this game

Roguebook is a strategy video game developed by Abrakam, the brains behind Faeria. It is a part card collection, part turn-based strategy game that will have you escape from a magical book. However, doing so requires facing three stages of difficulty and an overwhelming boss.

The deck-building combat of Roguebook will remind players of Slay the Spire. It switches to a side view and doles out cards based on the sets belonging to the two heroes you choose to take into the game. You and the enemy will then take turns attacking, defending, and unleashing specials using the cards. 

How do you play this game?

As mentioned, Roguebook takes you to a world of magical books. You play as Sharra, who's attempting to escape. However, getting out of the book requires completing three stages of increasing difficulty and defeating powerful bosses. Each level will lay out a hex-based map that leads to the boss. The rest of the map is uncovered, and you must use a combination of brushes and inks to explore it.

The game uses a turn-based battle system. Like Slay the Spire, you'll spend energy playing cards. You will also attack to deal damage to the enemy and buildup blocks to mitigate incoming attacks. However, the difference is that you have two players in each battle. The hero at the front will be the receiving end of the most damage. With this, putting a heavier tank character is beneficial.

Littered around the map are pages you can use to unlock bonuses for subsequent playthroughs. Also, each character has a special ability, such as a permanent health boost and a chance for better rewards. Moreover, since this is a roguelite, each map is different, and returning to them will generate different experiences. Additionally, each map is open, allowing you to choose to take on the boss without facing the minions.

Is the game good?

Overall, Roguebook is a phenomenally good game. It has deep and complex gameplay. Since it shares similarities with Slay the Spire, it is easy to get into. It also has tip-top strategic play and offers a roguelite map to make it more challenging. You can even choose how you play the map. The downside, however, is that there are stuttering frames and unusual collision issues on the map itself.