What We Liked..
Easy to play
Low system requirements
Satisfying progression
.. and what we didn't
Perhaps <em>too</em> automated
Typical Chinese grind
Thin population
Dragon Lord is a turn-based, browser MMORPG that does most of the work for you but still leaves you with plenty of choices to make and loot to claim.
Most of the actual gameplay is automated except for multiplayer dungeons – you have to actually participate in those. Solo adventures though, they can all play out automatically: yes, you can choose how to queue up attacks with your primary hero, but 99% of the time you will just set it to auto and watch as your party lays waste.
There is still some strategy involved though, especially when it comes to maximizing both your character and party power.
What We Liked..
A hack'n'slash done well in the comfort of a browser
Proven and fun gameplay
Graphically fantastic
Lots of action and a vast gaming world
.. and what we didn't
At high levels solo players will have a tough time...
... just like PvP lovers who don't plan to spend real money
Watch the trailer:
UPDATE: since June 2017, the game isn't easily playable via browser anymore. Only a few combinations of browsers and java versions will keep working, but everyone will still be able to play the game after downloading its client.
Drakensang Online is an excellent free hack & slash, published by BigPoint, based on a famous and popular series of role-playing games.
The game has many typical features of a MMORPG (such as skills, level-ups, crafting, etc...), with the welcome addition of a combat system based on combos and dodges, just like a typical third-person action game (anyone who knows the Diablo saga will certainly find it all very familiar).
As well as the ability to carry out the plot quest (either alone or in the company), there are also different PvP modes (including an original "Storm the fortress 6vs6") for those who prefer a competitive game.
The various available classes are well diversified from each other, and ensure a different gameplay depending on which is used, thus ensuring also a great replay value.
One of the highlights of the game is its impressive graphics, capable of displaying a great number of details in a simple web page.
Drakensang Online is really a well-done game: varied, entertaining, technically clean and able to keep the player glued to the PC for hours.
A title that should not be missing in any “free” gamer’s collection.
What We Liked..
Real-time combat
Great graphics and overall atmosphere
Extensive world map
.. and what we didn't
Too much base-building
Occasional issues with voice acting synchronization
Call of Dragons immerses players in the fantastical world of Tamaris, offering a blend of strategic combat, kingdom-building, and immersive storytelling.
As a player, you take on the role of a commander responsible for developing a village, training troops, and taming ferocious dragons and behemoths (!) to aid in battles.
The game features a vast 3.88 million square kilometer 3D map filled with diverse biomes and terrains, ensuring endless exploration and strategic opportunities
Players can choose from various factions such as elves, mages, and warriors, each offering unique abilities and strategic advantages. The game’s combat system is both engaging and strategic, requiring players to carefully manage their troops, utilize different unit types, and deploy powerful heroes equipped with magical artifacts
The game also boasts a robust PvP element, where players can engage in large-scale battles against other players, join guilds, and participate in guild wars.
Additionally, the presence of majestic behemoths like dragons and hydras adds a thrilling layer to the gameplay, as these creatures can be tamed and used in combat, providing significant advantages during battles.
The real-time strategic combat provides a much-needed distraction from the typical base-building mechanics that could otherwise end up being too repetitive.
What We Liked..
A must-try for all the Star Trek fans Nice strategic approach
.. and what we didn't
The grind
Star Trek: Fleet Command is a new free-to-play MMORTS set in the universe of Star Trek.
You'll be thrown into the chair of the captain of a space fleet, where you'll have to prove your strategic war skills in a real-time space combat experience, both on PC and mobile devices.
Pledge allegiance to iconic factions like the United Federation of Planets or the Klingon Empire, then navigate a 30-year campaign from Lieutenant Commander to Rear Admiral.
With over 50 ship designs and strategic base-building mechanics, the game offers depth and immersion for both Trekkies and strategy enthusiasts alike.
What We Liked..
Amazing visuals
Immersive storyline
Lots of strategy despite the "Idle" component
.. and what we didn't
Gacha system can be frustrating
AFK Journey invites players into the enchanting realm of Esperia, a vibrant world teeming with adventure and mystery. The game falls in the idle RPG category, offering a pleasant blend of strategic gameplay and immersive storytelling.
From the moment players set foot in Esperia, they are greeted by stunning visuals that breathe life into every corner of the world. Lush landscapes, intricate character designs, and fluid animations create an immersive experience that captivates the senses.
At its core, AFK Journey offers a strategic idle gameplay experience, allowing players to progress through various game modes with minimal hands-on interaction. By assembling teams of heroes with unique abilities and attributes, players engage in battles against AI opponents or other players, with an autoplay feature simplifying the process while still offering depth for those seeking a challenge.
A key aspect of AFK Journey is its emphasis on team composition and synergy. Players must strategically build and optimize their teams to overcome challenges, whether facing off against powerful bosses, competing in PvP battles, or navigating the treacherous Arcane Labyrinth.
Deep RPG progression systems allow for customization and strengthening of heroes over time, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
Players can of course join guilds, participate in cooperative battles, and compete for rewards alongside friends and fellow adventurers.
What We Liked..
Amazing soundtrack Convincing story Cool graphical ass...ets Simple and fun
.. and what we didn't
The gameplay lacks some depth... ... so it will get boring after a few weeks or months
Let's be honest: In Goddess of Victory you come for those sweet, spicy shooting girls in anime style, but you end up staying for an unexpectedly good lore, storytelling and soundtrack.
The gameplay itself is pretty simple: you shoot at things in 2D, so don't expect a full-featured online shooter like Call of Duty. Fights can (and will) get messy and fun, that's for sure, but the game lacks the depth of a hardcore shooter.
This is where the surprise comes in, because you'll immediately recognize the quality of the soundtrack, the colourful artworks and the solid lore and storytelling, which will immediately create an enjoyable and convincing atmosphere
If you like anime and are looking for a causal, simple game that is not too addictive or time consuming, definitely give Nikke a chance
What We Liked..
Fun arcade-style shooter levels
Good graphics
.. and what we didn't
PvE campaign too short
Shallow levels
Aggressive cash store with popup ads
Left To Survive is a free-to-play third-person shooter that incorporates fresh and unique arcade style shooting mechanics with a secondary game mode that involves base management, set in a zombie-filled post-apocalyptic world.
Players will play through a story-driven PvE campaign that contains many different levels where your marksmanship with various weaponry will be put to the test.
Gathering resources and building up your base are the key progression methods, as you need stronger guns and armour to tackle more difficult missions. Other game contents like PvP battles are offered in addition to customization of your character.
While free to play, the cash shop can be obtrusive but overall it's a fun game that offers a nostalgia trip especially due to the arcade feels.
What We Liked..
Fun combat
Generous gacha system
Vast and detailed open world
.. and what we didn't
Story and general atmosphere should be improved
Technical issues and bugs
Wuthering Waves is an ambitious open-world action RPG with a heavy focus on fast-paced, combo-heavy combat and a richly detailed world.
Set in a post-apocalyptic landscape, players assume the role of a Rover, awakening to explore a world filled with mysteries, powerful adversaries, and intricate lore.
The game stands out for its fluid movement system and engaging combat mechanics.
Players can run, wall-run, and use grappling hooks to traverse the environment swiftly, which complements the dynamic combat style.
The combat system itself emphasizes counterattacks, dodging, and strategic use of skills, providing a level of depth not commonly found in online RPGs.
The world of Wuthering Waves is vast and detailed, featuring various regions like the Huanglong area's city of Jinzhou. Players will encounter puzzles, platforming segments, and plenty of combat scenarios; also, they will be able to collect Echoes from defeated enemies in order to boost their stats, integrating exploration with character progression.
While the story may not captivate, Wuthering Waves' dynamic combat and rewarding progression systems offer plenty of reasons to dive into its world, with potential for improvement through future updates.
What We Liked..
Fun shooting Lots of different levels Fun graphics Convincing pirate atmosphere
.. and what we didn't
We didn't want another city building game
Genre: strategy, casual, managerial
Setting: fantasy, historical, sea
Graphics: animated artworks
PvP: guild or factions PvE PvP
Stormshot: Skull Isle Odyssey is a casual free-to-play game from FunPlus Entertainment (a company you might already know for other games like State of Survival or King of Avalon).
It is set in a world of pirates, hidden treasures, monsters and beautiful beaches, recreated with convincing graphics and dialogues... don't get us wrong: we're still talking about a casual game for PC and mobile devices, so don't expect the immersive experience of a full-featured MMORPG, but for the intended use of this game (killing some time during the lunch break, for example), the technical and story-telling aspects were quite enjoyable.
Regarding the gameplay, Stormshot is basically two-games-in-one: there will be the physics-based strategic shooting puzzles, and the city-building aspect.
The puzzles are the most enjoyable part: they are made in the style of Angry Birds, the iconic game that kinda invented this genre many years ago. There are hundreds of levels, very different one from another, very coloured, fun and sometimes humorous, granting a unique and fun experience every single time.
The city-building aspect is what we already know so well: gather resources, wait, build stuff, wait, wait more time, upgrade stuff, and so on... While many people do love this kind of dynamics, we felt it wasn't really necessary in a game like this, and we would have preferred to just have the excellent puzzles without being forced to play all the rest.
What We Liked..
Nice mix of different genres
Pleasant graphics and storyline
.. and what we didn't
Base-building aspect too important
Not well optimized on PC
Genre: strategy, war, managerial, action, simulation
Graphics: full 3D
PvP: all vs all guild or factions PvE PvP
State of Survival is an immersive, zombie-themed survival strategy game for PC and mobile devices.
The game combines real-time strategy, role-playing, base-building and tower defense elements, providing a rich gameplay experience.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players must band together in settlements and defend them against hordes of zombies and other players.
Combat happens in real time in full tower-defense style, combining RPG and strategy elements. While you're not fighting, you'll spend your time upgrading your settlement, training your troops, recruiting your heroes and coordinating with your alliance to rule this harsh, zombie-infested world.
Another notable aspect of the game is the rich storyline, which unfolds through a series of quests and missions. Players can explore different regions, uncover hidden secrets, and interact with various characters as they progress through the game. The narrative adds a sense of purpose and direction to the game, and helps players stay engaged and invested in their settlements and characters.
Overall, State of Survival is a compelling and addictive game that offers a unique and satisfying experience for players who enjoy strategy, RPG, and survival games.
With its pleasant visuals, engaging gameplay, and rich narrative, it's easy to see why the game has become so popular among PC gamers.