Lost Castle 2

Ah, Roguelike - the isekai of gaming styles - literally everywhere. Lost Castle 2 has been on early access for a while now, but the game is probably in a state now that merits a fair review, so I've been diving in to consecutive adventures and, if I'm honest, getting a bit addicted to it.

So, Lost Castle 2 is a 2D beat-em-up roguelite that invites you to head off into the unknown and earn your treasure by taking out the foul creatures that surround your home base. You can venture as far as you're able to earn gold and treasure, but only these items will return with you should you quit the quest and head home - any items earned on your travels will be gone and it'll be time to start over. 

That gold comes in handy however, as it allows you to upgrade your base and subsequently level up ahead of your next sortie. It's a clever mechanic that forces you to try numerous tactics, weapons and buffs, as you'll be entirely reliant on your success for upgrades in the field.

Victory brings treasure, and treasure means power. And more death. Lots of death.

Before then, you'll get a fun animated introduction and the chance to create your character. Cosmetic options can be unlocked as you progress, but my avatar, Alicia, is a fiery redhead with a cowlick and a bob-cut as I like my death dealing adventurers cute and savage. 

When setting off, you can pick up the weapon of your choice from the Blacksmith (again, level this up with gold, get better weapons when you start) and these are varied - magic staffs, broadswords, dual swords, bows, lances and all manner of deadly armament is available to suit your play style. I like to attack from a distance so generally I stick to magic staffs, bows and shotguns, but even I occasionally take out a big sharp sword for some up close and personal melee combat.

Each weapon has multiple uses too, ideal for adding some strategy to your fights and not just mashing buttons. Standard hits build up your special ability which unleashes a far more powerful blast. Some weapons, such as the staff, have long range attacks coupled with shorter shotgun blasts, and everything you carry has a buff of some sort, so that's important to manage too. Additional weapons like bombs are also on-hand and can be upgraded to the point of carrying two weapons, which is frankly awesome.

Other items are available as well - potions and armour being the main staples - but generally you'll want to quit while you're ahead on a run so you can keep levelling up to press on further. Bosses are big, bold and brilliant, so if you're smart you'll pace yourself despite the glittering temptation of more rewards.

What helps to keep this repetition fresh is the multiple branching paths - once through the initial realm, you'll be able to choose your next destination from a choice of two, and clearing an area within these often offer branching paths too - will you take on monsters, pick a safe path for re-stocking, try your luck with cursed combat or fight a boss? It's a simple setup but works wonderfully, and far from being bored I found myself wanting just one more outing before bed, at which point hours fly by and the sun is up. Bugger.

The game has a very cheeky feel to it, in the same vein as Disgaea whereby all the combat seems somehow charming - the tongue-in-cheek dialogue, adorable character designs and beautiful pixel-art make this an absolute pleasure to play. Battles feel fair, which is vitally important in this genre, and any failures are largely down to the player (I missed the health restoring potion you get as standard so tried my first run with no healing whatsoever. Hardcore or stupid, you decide).

For those that like to play on the go (as I do) you'll be pleased to know it works splendidly on Steam Deck, though some of the text is a touch small in the item menus.

If it's not obvious by now, I adore playing this game. It's now a staple in my rotation for when I want to pass the time when travelling or just fancy picking up something to scratch my gaming itch. At under £13 you're getting so much fun for your money it's practically a steal, so my advice? Venture forth adventurer and take everything you can.