Okay, let's talk deckbuilders. I've been neck-deep in them lately – ever since that tantalizing whisper about Slay the Spire 2. Is it real? Maybe. Maybe not. But the speculation alone has reignited my passion for the genre. And, honestly? Even if StS2 never materializes, we're hardly starving for amazing games.
Which brings me to my point: if you're itching for that deckbuilding fix, but need something now, I've got you covered. Forget endlessly refreshing the Steam page for news. Let's dive into eight incredible deckbuilders you can play today – and, even better, many are sporting some seriously sweet discounts right now. (And yes, I will touch on whether that Slay the Spire 2 announcement will ever happen.).
But first, let's get this out of the way:
Slay the Spire 2: Will It Ever Happen?
The million-dollar question, right? Look, Mega Crit Games is notoriously tight-lipped. They've said they're working on "something new," but details are scarcer than hen's teeth. There were also rumours around roguebook 2. Some insiders are betting against it, pointing to the team's desire to explore new design spaces. But, hey, hope springs eternal. I'm still holding out for an official announcement sometime this year. Maybe?
I think the beauty of Slay the Spire is in its elegant simplicity combined with insane depth. That's a tough act to follow. It's like trying to bottle lightning. Anyway, while we're all waiting, let's not miss out on the current lightning strikes happening in the deckbuilding world.
8 Deckbuilders to Fill the Void (and Empty Your Wallet Responsibly)
Alright, let's get down to business. Here are eight games that have been scratching my deckbuilding itch something fierce:
- Monster Train: This one flips the script – literally. You're defending a vertical train from waves of enemies. Insane replayability, multiple clans with unique mechanics, and a hell of a soundtrack.
- Griftlands: From Klei Entertainment (the Don't Starve guys), Griftlands blends deckbuilding with RPG elements. You negotiate, you fight, you make tough choices. The writing is top-notch.
- Roguebook: Co-designed by Richard Garfield (yes, that Richard Garfield of Magic: The Gathering fame), Roguebook throws in a unique positional element. It's challenging, rewarding, and gorgeous to look at. Speaking of gorgeous...
- Dicey Dungeons: A quirky, charming, and surprisingly deep roguelike where you play as a sentient die. The art style is adorable, but don't let that fool you – this game can be brutal.
- Across the Obelisk: Want something epic? Across the Obelisk is a co-op roguelite deckbuilder with a branching narrative. Assemble your party, build your decks, and save the kingdom.
- Tainted Grail: Conquest: Dark, gritty, and unforgiving. Tainted Grail throws you into a bleak Arthurian legend, where survival is a constant struggle. The atmosphere alone is worth the price of admission.
- SteamWorld Quest: Hand of Gilgamech: A delightful blend of steampunk and fantasy. SteamWorld Quest is surprisingly approachable, making it a great entry point for newcomers to the genre.
- Banners of Ruin: Lead a band of anthropomorphic warriors to reclaim your city. Banners of Ruin features a unique combat system with positional play.
And the discounts? Keep an eye on Steam, GOG, and the Humble Store. Sales pop up all the time, and you can often snag these gems for a steal. I picked up Monster Train for like 75% off during a recent sale. I keep coming back to this point because it's crucial: patience pays off when it comes to building your digital deckbuilding library.
The Allure of Deckbuilders: Why Are They So Addictive?
What is it about deckbuilders that keeps us hooked? For me, it's the blend of strategy and randomness. You're constantly adapting to the cards you're dealt (literally!), making every run feel unique. There's also the satisfaction of building a perfectly synergized deck, watching your carefully constructed engine obliterate everything in its path. Pure dopamine rush, I tell you!
Think about it this way: it's like crafting the perfect recipe. You start with a basic framework, then add ingredients (cards) until you've created something truly special. And sometimes, you accidentally create a monster – but that's part of the fun, right? The frustrating thing about this topic is that there are so many variables at play.
But, even more deeply, Deckbuilders offer a microcosm of life itself: resource management, risk assessment, and a constant need to adapt to changing circumstances.
FAQ: Your Burning Deckbuilding Questions Answered
How do I know if a deckbuilder is right for me?
This is a great question! Consider what aspects of gaming you enjoy most. Do you love strategic thinking? Are you drawn to games with high replayability? Do you appreciate a good challenge? If you answered yes to any of these, a deckbuilder might be right up your alley. Also, look for games with tutorials or beginner-friendly modes to ease you into the mechanics. Don't be afraid to experiment! Check out YouTube videos or read reviews to get a better sense of a game's vibe before diving in.
Why are deckbuilders so popular all of a sudden?
Well, "all of a sudden" might be a bit of an exaggeration. The genre has been steadily gaining popularity for years, thanks in large part to games like Slay the Spire. But I think the surge in popularity is due to a few factors: accessibility (many are available on mobile), depth (offering endless replayability), and variety (there's a deckbuilder for almost every theme imaginable). They fill that "one more run" craving perfectly.
Are all deckbuilders roguelikes?
Not necessarily, but many are! Roguelikes are characterized by permadeath (if you die, you start over from the beginning), procedurally generated levels, and a focus on strategic decision-making. Many deckbuilders incorporate these elements, creating a challenging and rewarding experience. However, some deckbuilders offer more structured campaigns or persistent progression systems.
What are some common misconceptions about deckbuilding games?
One common misconception is that they're all complex and difficult to learn. While some deckbuilders can be quite intricate, many are surprisingly accessible. Another misconception is that they're all the same. In reality, the genre is incredibly diverse, with each game offering its own unique mechanics, themes, and challenges. The key is to find one that clicks with you!
Another misconception is that deckbuilders are solitaire only experiences. Some deckbuilders offer co-op and multiplayer options allowing players to build decks together and battle other players.
So, there you have it. My take on the Slay the Spire 2 rumors and a handful of deckbuilders to keep you occupied in the meantime. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a train to defend and a spire to… well, you know.
