Publisher: Mystic Box
Developer: Mystic Box
Genre: RPG/Puzzle
ESRB rating: Not rated
Release date: July 20, 2011

A cloaked figure wanders into a tavern. After he sits down at the bar, one of the more unruly patrons stumbles over and picks a fight. The cloaked figure reaches into his pocket and unsheathes his weapon…the five of clubs. He slams in on the bar and the instigator is no more. This may seem like a strange premise, but it is similar to Mystic Box’s new game, Runespell: Overture.

In Runespell: Overture, you play as the Changling, a cloaked being on a journey to recover his memory. While you start the journey alone, you are quickly joined by fellow adventures as you make your way across various settings, including a bright forest and a frozen mountain. During your journey, you will encounter various beasts and monsters that will try to stop you. Their preferred method of combat? Poker (and a little magic).

The combat in Runespell: Overture is a two-fold card system. The actual combat is done using poker cards and rules. Damage done varies on the strength of your hand. For example, a Royal Flush does the most damage, while a single pair does the least. During the three moves you are allowed each turn, you can move your cards around to make pairs and straights to set up your next attack. You can also use one of your moves to steal an opponent’s card. Adding to the combat are a set of specialty cards, which can be equipped before each battle and offer a variety of effects. Some cards cast magic spells for direct damage while other cards heal or defend you. The allies you meet on your adventure join you in the form of battle cards you can use during any fight.

Runespell: Overture’s combat system takes a little while to get used to, but it is actually pretty fun once you get the hang of it. The enemy AI is challenging, frequently stealing the cards you need to make a four or five of a kind, as well as liberally using magic against you. While the poker aspect of the game takes up most of the combat screen, there are battle sequences that play out at the top, showing the various attacks and spells. Many levels also feature a treasure chest that can be opened by using a particular attack. The reward for performing that specific attack is usually a new card to use in your next battle.

Before each battle, the main character and the enemy exchange words. These words are almost always about how the Changeling cannot remember who he is. During numerous conversations, the player is given dialog choices, though these seem to have little effect on the game as a whole. The visuals are very fluid, and the music and sound effects fit the game perfectly. The game features 35 achievements to keep you busy, as well as Leaderboard support to check your score against other players.

Runespell: Overture’s quirky combat system makes it a great buy for both strategy and poker fans. The battle cards add a unique twist to traditional poker rules, and make for a fun experience. The game is lengthy, and offers many side quests and random encounters during your adventure. The game is available now on Steam.

Our Score:

Our Recommendation: