Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch - Tactical Triumph or Strategic Stumble?

A roguelite journey through tactical grids and undead mysteries

Launch Day Larry

In the realm of tactical RPGs, “Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch” attempts to carve out its niche with a blend of grid-based combat and roguelite elements. It’s a game that promises strategic depth and narrative intrigue, but does it deliver a spellbinding experience or leave players hexed with frustration? Let’s dive into the grid and find out.

Gameplay: Tactical Chess with a Side of Roguelite

“Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch” offers a tactical combat system that will feel familiar to veterans of Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics. The grid-based, turn-based battles are hypnotic, with melee, ranged, and magic combatants all vying for supremacy. The game spices things up with positional bonuses and environmental variables like poison fog and rivers, adding layers of strategy that can make or break your tactical plans.

However, the combat can become repetitive, and the maps lack the complexity and variety that could keep players on their toes. The undo system is a standout feature, allowing players to replay actions and turns, which is both a blessing and a curse. While it offers forgiveness for mistakes, it can also make the game feel too forgiving, reducing the tension that should accompany each decision.

The user interface and controls are a mixed bag. Some players appreciate the toggle between detailed and simplified descriptions, but others find the UI overly designed and the controls clunky, especially when it comes to spellcasting and weapon switching. The camera movement can be awkward, leading to misclicks that might have you wishing for an undo button in real life.

Graphics: Simple, Functional, and a Bit Generic

Visually, “Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch” opts for simplicity, which ensures broad compatibility across gaming systems. This is great news for those playing on a Steam Deck or a potato masquerading as a gaming PC. The character art, while detailed, has been criticized for lacking uniqueness, with some players likening it to AI-generated images. It’s a bit like ordering a gourmet meal and getting a fast-food burger—functional but not quite what you were hoping for.

The UI design is another point of contention, with its prototype-like appearance and excessive visual effects that can distract from the gameplay. While the game is generally well-optimized, reports of random screen blackouts suggest there’s room for improvement in the technical department.

Story: A Dark Fantasy with a Dash of Humor

Set in a dark fantasy world, the story of “Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch” begins with the player character’s death and subsequent binding by a mysterious witch. It’s an intriguing premise that draws players into a narrative filled with supernatural elements and classic fantasy tropes. The game stands alone as a sequel, providing enough backstory for newcomers without relying heavily on its predecessor.

Character dynamics are a highlight, with side characters offering depth and a humorous raven companion adding a unique twist. However, the narrative can feel unfinished, with unresolved mysteries and a lack of content variety for multiple playthroughs. The writing is strong, though it occasionally dips into “corny” territory, with a tone that might feel inconsistent to some players.

Final Verdict

“Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch” is a game with potential, offering engaging tactical gameplay and a story that intrigues, even if it doesn’t fully satisfy. Its roguelite elements and progression system provide a strong foundation for replayability, but the game requires refinement in its tactical combat, UI, and narrative depth to truly shine. As an early access title, it shows promise and offers good entertainment value despite its current limitations.

Score: 6.5/10