PGC NEWS

The enduring legend of King Arthur continues to captivate artists and storytellers worldwide. From potentially historical origins, the mythos has evolved through countless iterations, most notably featuring the Knights of the Round Table and magical elements. Central to this magical world is the enigmatic figure of Merlin. But what if Merlin’s secrets weren’t just prophecies and spells, but gateways to alternate dimensions and timelines teeming with strange creatures? The Hand of Merlin, an indie turn-based strategy game, explores this intriguing premise, blending a compelling narrative with a roguelite experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

The Hand of Merlin

The Hand of Merlin offers a unique blend of gameplay mechanics. Players progress through a single, overarching narrative via a large map. While branching paths exist, the main story and its conclusion remain constant. This structure, reminiscent of Slay the Spire, provides a sense of familiarity while still offering new challenges with each playthrough.

The Hand of Merlin

A Familiar Yet Innovative Combat System

The game’s combat system draws heavily from XCOM, featuring turn-based battles on a grid-based map. Each character has two action points per turn, allowing for movement, attacks, or other actions. The focus on hero characters with unique abilities evokes XCOM: Chimera Squad. However, the emphasis on melee combat and straightforward magic also brings to mind the tactical turn-based game Othercide.

The Hand of Merlin

This blend of strategic combat and roguelite progression seamlessly integrates with the narrative. Players journey through different timelines, seeking one where Merlin successfully defeats a mysterious supernatural force threatening Arthur’s kingdom. This clever intertwining of gameplay and story keeps players engaged, even with a relatively straightforward plot.

The Hand of Merlin

Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses

While The Hand of Merlin effectively combines familiar elements, it also faces challenges. The map system, borrowed from Slay the Spire, works well narratively, but the lengthy encounters can feel cumbersome compared to Slay the Spire’s faster pace. Paradoxically, the punishing turn-based combat, similar to Othercide, feels less dynamic without Othercide’s innovative timeline system.

The Hand of Merlin

Encounters can take 20-30 minutes, which clashes with the typical roguelite design philosophy of shorter, more digestible runs. This creates a tension between the game’s compelling narrative and its sometimes-tedious combat.

The Hand of Merlin

Conclusion: A Worthy Arthurian Adventure

The Hand of Merlin offers a unique and engaging experience, blending Arthurian lore with strategic roguelite gameplay. While its lengthy encounters and combat system may not appeal to all players, the game’s intriguing narrative and innovative blend of genres make it a worthwhile adventure for fans of tactical RPGs and Arthurian legend. The game successfully weaves together elements of familiar titles while forging its own distinct identity in the crowded roguelite landscape.