Dark Hunting Ground: A Pixelated Playground of Possibilities

Where loot is king and the story takes a backseat

Launch Day Larry

In the vast and often overwhelming world of action RPGs, “Dark Hunting Ground” emerges as a pixelated beacon for those who crave deep mechanics without the burden of a convoluted narrative. This game is like a love letter to fans of “Path of Exile” and “Diablo,” but with a more accessible and player-friendly approach. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes this game tick, and where it might need a little WD-40.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Skills and Spreadsheets

“Dark Hunting Ground” is a roguelite that offers a rich tapestry of gameplay mechanics, allowing players to indulge in a loot grind that would make even the most seasoned ARPG veteran’s heart flutter. The game boasts a robust system for grinding gear and creating custom builds, with 18 skills each enhanced by six support skills. This level of customization is a dream for theorycrafters and those who enjoy tweaking their characters to perfection.

While the gameplay is engaging, the game does stumble over a few hurdles. Optimization issues rear their ugly heads, especially with complex builds that involve multiple projectiles. The lack of controller support is a significant drawback, particularly for those hoping to play on devices like the Steam Deck. The UI, described by some as “terrible,” could use a bit of polish, though it’s not entirely unmanageable.

Despite these hiccups, the game excels in its crafting and item progression systems, offering quality of life features like loot filters and auto loot. The freedom to mix and match abilities without penalties enhances the replayability, making each playthrough a unique experience. However, the game could benefit from more end-game content to keep players engaged once they’ve mastered the basics.

Graphics: A High-Contrast Canvas

The visual style of “Dark Hunting Ground” is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the high-contrast pixel art creates a unique and cohesive aesthetic that many players find appealing. The black void surrounding a grey platform, punctuated by bright flashing elements, contributes to the game’s distinctive vibe.

However, this high-contrast style can be overwhelming, making it difficult for some players to engage with the game for extended periods. Performance issues, particularly with complex builds, suggest that the graphics may not be well-optimized for all scenarios. The UI, while praised by some, is criticized by others, indicating potential design and functionality issues that detract from the overall experience.

Story: A Minimalist Approach

In “Dark Hunting Ground,” the story takes a backseat to gameplay mechanics and player-driven experiences. The game eschews traditional storytelling elements like cut scenes and long dialogues, allowing players to focus on action and character progression. This design choice appeals to fans of the ARPG genre who prefer gameplay over narrative depth.

While the lack of a significant story component might deter those seeking a rich narrative experience, the game compensates with its clean mechanics and satisfying progression. The variety in character builds and the ability to mix and match abilities from different pathways enhance replayability, making the game fun and addictive. However, translation issues can hinder the understanding of certain game elements, impacting story comprehension.

Final Verdict

“Dark Hunting Ground” is a hidden gem in the ARPG genre, offering a simplistic surface with hidden depth and a wide variety of playstyles. It focuses on core gameplay elements without unnecessary complexity, making it particularly appealing to those who enjoy building and progressing through different character builds. While it faces challenges with optimization, UI, and a lack of end-game content, the game’s engaging mechanics and customization options make it a worthwhile purchase, especially before its price increases post-Early Access.

Score: 7.5/10