When it comes to RPGs, it’s all about the numbers. Long before computers could host video games, people engaged in RPGs using pencils, dice, and their imagination, all revolving around numbers. The enigmatic dice are the architects of the RPG world, even in video games, where fancy graphics coexist with dice-based algorithms under the hood. Some RPGs today prioritize minimalistic graphics, focusing on hardcore numbers and statistics, and Metro Quester fits this mold nicely.
Metro Quester: Embracing Hardcore RPG Mechanics
In many ways, Metro Quester shares similarities with Dungeon Encounters, a minimalist dungeon-crawling RPG from Square Enix released a few years ago. While Metro Quester is somewhat limited in ambition and length, some may appreciate the intricacies of its combat system.
Exploration can be a grind, with actions limited by stamina, and at some point, you’re forced back into the base.
Its biggest strength lies in its user interface. Whether you’re on the map screen, in combat, or at the base, all the necessary information is readily accessible. The layout and presentation of the dungeon and battle screens are particularly efficient and effective, making Metro Quester the ideal portable RPG experience.
Because the game prioritizes presenting information clearly and digestibly, it isn’t the most graphically intensive game out there. Nevertheless, it boasts some appealing character portraits, even if the monster designs aren’t groundbreaking. It adheres to the conventions of Dungeon RPGs with its simplistic graphics.
Simplistic Graphics and Dungeon RPG Conventions
Metro Quester offers a minimalistic setup and premise: a group of Questers must explore and survive in post-apocalyptic Japan. Exploring dungeons and battling monsters are only part of the main quest; the primary objective is survival through resource and food gathering. Dungeon exploration and boss battles progress the game, but the ultimate goal is accumulating enough food supplies before the deadline.
Combat entails preprogramming actions for each party member… offering satisfaction and strategy.
Despite its initial appearance as an unforgiving game, Metro Quester offers several quality-of-life features that make the gameplay loop feel more relaxing than punishing. Notably, there is no permanent game over screen, even if you fail to reach the food quota target. While there are penalties, they aren’t severe enough to impede progress. Exploration can be a grind, with actions limited by stamina, and at some point, you’re forced back into the base.
The game may seem simple on the surface, but it’s advisable to read up on all the in-game manuals in advance. Progression involves discovering new party members and building new camping sites. However, new party members aren’t just a cozy addition; they mean more questers in camp, requiring increased food and resources to sustain everyone.
Strategic Combat in Metro Quester
Combat entails preprogramming actions for each party member and executing them as one collective action. This approach offers satisfaction and strategy, as minor adjustments to actions and commands can make a significant difference in the outcome. Much like other aspects of this RPG, it’s all about keeping things effective and efficient.
Metro Quester adheres to the conventions of Dungeon RPGs with its simplistic graphics.
Metro Questers isn’t for everyone, but those seeking a nerdy RPG focused on stats and numbers without cinematic fluff will find satisfaction here. It harks back to the text-based RPGs of the past while incorporating enough modern design conventions to make it an enjoyable experience for anyone seeking a gameplay-focused RPG.
