Mortal Rite Early Access [Mini Review]
Mortal Rite, developed by Round Toast Studios, integrates elements of the Souls-like and roguelite genres. Its combat system emphasizes strategic, action-based melee engagements, where deliberate execution is rewarded and indiscriminate button pressing is penalized. Combat mechanics incorporate light and heavy attacks, blocking, parrying, and rolling, all governed by a stamina system, and each character possesses four unique abilities. These abilities necessitate the generation of focus through combat, establishing a balance between Souls-like tactics and aggressive action. Currently, the game features four character classes: Tank, Caster, Rogue, and the Custom-like character. Each class manipulates a distinct form of matter, influencing their respective abilities. The Initiate possesses the capacity to manipulate all matter, thus gaining access to the talent repertoire of all other classes.
Alden's Refuge serves as the central hub where players select characters, enhance talents, participate in pvp, and choose which worlds to enter. Six worlds are presently available, each unlocked sequentially upon the completion of the preceding one. Player progression is preserved, and while death results in the reset of the current level, overall progress is maintained. Loot consists of gold, consumables, blacksmithing materials, and equipment. Rather than weapons and armor, offensive and defensive capabilities are determined through talent trees. Gold facilitates the purchase and crafting of recipes, and equipment augments character statistics.
Although Mortal Rite exhibits potential, several aspects require refinement. The user interface presents challenges due to its unwieldy nature, and the game's performance isn’t great despite having recommended specifications. The level design, particularly in the tutorial and the first level, requires improvement. The tutorial's instructive value is limited, necessitating reliance on control settings to comprehend the core mechanics. Furthermore, the absence of music and engaging sound design renders the experience lackluster. Camera controls need a lot of work and honestly should track the character.
Even with these issues, Mortal Rite, demonstrates potential through its genre amalgamation and engaging combat mechanics. The game is presently in Early Access and has a roadmap. Mortal Rite provides replay value, particularly with cooperative and pvp modes. I do recommended trying this game out especially if you have a group of friends to play with. I will re-review this game in the future as more content updates are released.
