Alright folks, let’s dive in to our discussion for ‘SKALD: Against the Black Priory’. This is an RPG developed by High North Studios AS and published by Raw Fury. So, let’s start with our initial impressions. For me, the combat is a high point. It’s rich with tactical depth, and each class I’ve played has felt unique and distinct. I’ve heard some opinions suggesting a lack of balance with certain character classes, mainly the Battlemagos, but I’ve found it to be quite strategic. NewGamer, how about you?

I’m with you there, PlayerProX. The combat is engaging, but the star for me is absolutely the rich storytelling and the world they’ve crafted. It feels like a real living, breathing universe filled with lore and intrigue. That being said, I’ve noticed some players, like our second Steam reviewer, talking about the combat feeling too drawn out by the mid-game, tending to become repetitive and slow.

Yeah, I’ve seen some of that too. But hey, we all know I’m here for the action fast and quick, right? To that point, I appreciate the diversity of tactics I can use in battles, means I can speed through encounters if I’ve had my fill. CompletionistMaster, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.

turn-based combat with diverse classes

Well, while I agree with the points made on the storytelling and combat, I’ve found the itemization to be somewhat uninspiring. The items are mostly just for basic stat and skill buffs, but I’ve noticed lots of consumables and crafting materials which I find beneficial for thorough gaming. Now let’s delve into game mechanics, what do you guys think?

Sure thing, CompletionistMaster. I think one of the standouts here is the tactical, turn-based combat. The class diversity factors massively into this. Each class has unique strengths and weaknesses, and the combat is balanced in a way that encourages strategic use of these characteristics. The extensive crafting system also gets a thumbs up from me.

The mechanics here go hand-in-hand with the story, that’s what I love about it. The way each character’s unique abilities factor into the story’s progression keeps me invested. I absolutely agree on the combat, on a point of immersion it makes every scenario feel unique and consequential.

As someone who’s always looking to optimize, I’m game for anything that adds variety to my playthroughs. The use of abilities, party strategy, even dialog choices can affect the outcomes massively. Plus, the auto-resolve function to bypass combat scenarios? A great time saver when it’s needed.

Indeed. Alternatives like auto-resolve add value for completionists. Shifting the discussion towards the story and narrative, it’s the offering of meaningful consequences that has me hooked. Dialogue choices, skillchecks, and tactical decision-making all weave into a very complex and intriguing narrative. It’s a truly immersive story experience, and the gritty atmosphere just amplifies it.

I agree. Each narrative path is so full of twists and turns, it really kept me engaged all throughout. The character development is also stellar. The way each character advances and evolves over the course of the story gives each of them a real depth that’s surprising for what first appears as a small indie RPG.

gritty, Lovecraftian atmosphere

The beautiful visuals and animations, they just enhance the experience even more. The pixel art style, inspired by Commodore 64, really works wonders in building that retro, lovecraftian atmosphere we’re all loving. The CRT filter is a nice touch for the nostalgic gamers out there too.

Right you are! I’m impressed by how they’ve used the 8-bit style to build a world that feels both grim and enchanting at the same time. It just pulls you in, doesn’t it?

Absolutely. Let’s talk sound design. The game’s soundtrack really heightens the grim and dark atmosphere whilst underscoring those tense moments in combat. Sound effects are spot on.

unique character designs

Couldn’t have said it better myself. Now touching on the challenge level, I found the combat to be quite challenging in parts, but fair. The balance is there.

The choice-based dialogue actually adds another layer of complexity. Your decisions can lead your party into danger or help them avoid it.

From a speedrunning perspective, the decision-making aspect is a welcome challenge. Plotting the quickest, most efficient path through the game keeps it interesting for me.

In terms of replay value, the multi-solution quests and class choice could definitely lure the completionist back for another round. Some players point out low replayability though, like our third Steam reviewer.

To wrap it up, SKALD: Against the Black Priory brings a lot to the table: intense combat, compelling narrative, atmospheric visuals and sound, plus a range of classes that feel unique. It certainly stands alongside greats such as Knights of the Chalice. For High North Studios AS’s future games, perhaps focusing on more diversified itemization and addressing some difficulty balance issues would benefit the gameplay.

I echo that sentiment. Continued focus on storytelling and world-building will definitely get me coming back for more.

dark, maze-like dungeons

I’d love to see more ways to speedrun effectively in their future games. Different paths, alternate solutions, that kind of stuff.

I am keenly interested in how High North Studios AS would expand on its mechanics. More focused on crafting, consumables and branching pathways would be appreciated in a future sequel.

And that wraps up our lively roundtable discussion on ‘SKALD: Against the Black Priory.’ An awesome gaming experience, and we’re excited to see what more lies in store from High North Studios AS in the future. Cheers!

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