Caves of Qud

Early access review caves of Qud is probably my favorite Rogue-like. I find it well worth ADOM or ToME, for many reasons. In addition to being very complete, it is very original. The game takes place in a futuristic universe, which reminds a little of the post-apocalyptic universe of fallout. + Futuristic universe that changes medieval-fantasy + two character types, each with its pros and cons: mutants and true kin (= non-mutants) + complete character creation: distribution of STAT points, choice of class/caste, choice of mutations (very varied) for mutants + visually original (UI style console/retro, colors "Neon"...) + interesting lore + good evolution of the characters (many passive skills and interesting assets, mutations to improve/buy, some stats points to distribute) = > ability to create quite different characters with varying skills and combinations of mutations and skills + reputation system with many factions + NPCs generated proceally, with a name, and a small story in the form of a positive or negative reputation with a particular faction (and that influence our reputation when we kill them) + diversity of monsters, loot, etc. + game full of surprises + lots of other interesting stuff +/-it's a rogue-like, so often frustant. Especially when you lose a character we spent hours lifting and "shaping" +/-only in English +/-still in early access short, I recommend caves of Qud to rogue-like enthusiasts. It's a good game, and its originality is a big plus.

Early access review I certainly wouldn't want to upset fans of this title. I am an old-timer and I practiced the MUDs. Given the high level of appreciation of the game, I thought I would also love it. I thought I would have an exceptional experience, that I would be fascinated by writing and everything else! The side that I actually found really friendly is "the game universe", new and mysterious. I wanted to find out more. Another very interesting side is the reputation system: there are very many factions and even more ways of gaining reputation from them, and everything seems to be taken into account in a rich way at this level. But I have for my part not hung on the writing, the environment, the proposed classes, the combat system... and when I say not hung, I am even revolted, because all this set seemed simplistic and unfortunately limited. The MUD side I expected, but I expected a better MUD than I had experienced in the years 90; in the vein of ToME. It is really far away, and it is not just the interface that does not help to get out of that time, but also the writing, the skills and the classes. Some unlogical topics also have left me a bit neutral: for example I can click on any thing with only "trade" action; including with the creatures and monsters of a neuron and a half who actually have nothing to Exchange; the topics of discussion are really extremely closed; the places of life are purely symbolic and lack coherence, of population; and I would have preferred a free conversion system to the Ultima 5 for example. But to summarize, caves of Qud mostly gave me claustrophobia on the UI, few pleasant sensations, and very little "dream". This dream side is what I was looking for and I think it might be accessible to others who would try the title. If for your part, this was accessible, I am happy for your gaming enjoyment; for my part it has not met my expectations. I don't want to disappoint any fan; I posted here because I also liked to see such reviews before buying.