Developed by Tako Boy Studios and published by the Arcade Crew and Gamera Games, embark on a fast-paced adventure across legendary fables. Engage in the unique RPG deck builder known as Cross Blitz and witness the story of Heroes. A clever combination of Hearthstone and Inscription, let’s dive into this collection of tales!
So, you want to here a story, eh?
The story of Cross Blitz is uniquely told through “Fables.” You will be able to select a different story and interact with a different character. For the demo, I was able to play as Redcroft, a once Legendary pirate of terrifying skill and impeccable honor. In this particular story Redcroft finds himself under the command of a seemingly Evil princess. After being wrongfully imprisoned and forced into servitude, Redcroft and his crew must earn his freedom back. Unfortunately, his lack of freedom is under the orders of the princess and her uptight lackey Abraxas.
First and foremost, the art style and Cross Blitz is phenomenal. I’m a sucker for pixel art as it is, and the art style portrayed is easily iconic. The characters have super unique designs. The user interface is extremely well designed and crafted, and it somehow manages to be consistent. The Overworld is different from the cut-scenes, which is different from the card battle itself. It holds together extremely well. The music is also very entertaining to listen to, at least what I’ve been able to hear of it.
What’s the blitz in Cross Blitz?
The first half of gameplay in Cross Blitz involves you moving around a sort of Overworld. A hex grid of options is given to you, and you can move about them to interact with different points of interest. Some invoke NPC dialog, while others are places that allow you to gain information or power-ups. Some parts of the map won’t be accessible until certain prerequisites are met, so it pays to explore and see what you can find. Clicking around on everything certainly doesn’t hurt.
The second form of game-play in Cross Blitz involves a tactical card game. You play “Rock, Paper, Scissors” to see who goes first, then you draw cards to play with. Cards have an energy cost to play, set amounts of health and attack damage, or abilities. Every turn you gain an additional level of energy that you can use to play your hand. Sort of like Hearthstone, you have a grid that allows you to play cards, and only certain types of cards can go in certain areas. Defeating opponents also comes with challenges. If you manage to defeat opponent in a certain way you will gain accolades, which turns into money for you to spend.
A whole world to explore!
There are several layers beyond the card game that one must consider. Playing the game will have you unlock more cards over time, but whether you keep your original deck is totally up to you. It might take a try or two before you settle on a play style that you’re comfortable with. There are also relics that you can buy that will further enhance your gameplay, like buffing a certain card type when you play it or getting additional cards. Finally, there’s the level grid. Redcroft can earn levels by winning games against opponents, and you can use that experience to unlock cards or increase your health.
There is a lot to look forward to in Cross Blitz. Upon the full release of the game, you will be able to play as new Heroes with new stories. Explore different chapters within the Fables and experience the full adventure in store. There is also the locked modes of Tusk Tales and Coliseum. I have no idea what those could possibly be, but honestly if they’re anything like the Fables mode, I’m looking forward to it.
The amount of gameplay in this demo is honestly astounding. For all intents and purposes, it’s completely fleshed out, and only promises more to come. While there is no set release date at the moment, I am still going to be watching this game’s development to see where it goes. If you have a chance to play the demo, I highly suggest doing so.
Good things on the horizon
Cross Blitz is that itch that needs scratching for me: an RPG deck builder, amazing graphics and good music, and with the potential for more to come. I love card games and I’m a big fan of getting all the cards and seeing what ways I can make interactions. The game can be a little difficult at times, given the random nature of the draw, but don’t let that deter you. I highly recommend this game, even in its current form.
Cross Blitz demo is available now until July 10, 2023 on Steam.
VERDICT
GREAT
GREAT
Cross Blitz is that itch that needs scratching for me: an RPG deck builder, amazing graphics and good music, and with the potential for more to come. I love card games and I'm a big fan of getting all the cards and seeing what ways I can make interactions. The game can be a little difficult at times, given the random nature of the draw, but don't let that deter you. I highly recommend this game, even in its current form.
