Inscryption (Daniel Mullins Games) Video Game Review

Released October 19, 2021

Developer: Daniel Mullins Games

Publisher: Devolver Digital

Reviewed on: PC

Also on: (Only available on PC at the moment)

INCLUSIVE TALLY (Overall): 9.7/10

"Unparalleled creativity and captivation like I haven't felt in years "

Bang for your Bounty (Value): 10/10 

Inscryption released at $19.99 on October 19th and gave a special 10% promotion discount that is valid until November 1st. The amount you get in this game for either of those prices is a no brainer. Absolutely pick up this game for under $20.00 right now.

Ocular Pleasure (Graphics):  8/10 

Grungy. Let's be honest, the graphics are arguably the weakest point of this game, but that is not a knock on the game at all. The grimy 3D and classic 2D top-down graphics seem intentional. 

Mullins Games hits the nail on the head utilizing attention to detail with calculated direction for each phase. Inscryption also includes a live action series of videos that I personally didn't gel with but the greenhorn acting manages to get the point across and adds rationale to the blanket story. 

Butter or Stutter (Gameplay/Mechanics): 10/10 

Simple, straightforward and smooth. The genius it took to come up with this system is commendable and well worthy of a 10/10. It gloats clear and understandable yet addictive card-play that works on numerous levels with diverse decks. Tying a well oiled core mechanic into a functional system that is essentially three games in one is all the more impressive. 

Body of Expression (Story): 9.5/10

A shrewdly crafted masterpiece. While you wouldn't expect much of a story from a deck-building card game, Inscryption boasts rogue-like, horror and escape room elements paired with an underlying diabolical storyline to deliver much more than appears at surface level. The ever evolving diversiform tale starts in a dimly lit cabin going head-to-head against a cryptic adversary at a creature based roguelike card game called "Inscryption". As we progress and unveil dense secrets we begin to get self-assured and think we know the ultimate end goal. I mean we only paid $19.99 and we are more skilled at roguelike cards than most right? Boy are we ever wrong! No sooner are we able to try our hand at photography before we are pulled into the drastic evolution of Incryption pulling down the curtain to realize we got much more than we bargained for.  Don't get it twisted, this isn't some half assed game that jumps all over the place or some demo of a game trying to do to much. The drastic transformation we experience while maintaining the core principle and unsettling tone is nothing short of impressive. Try your hand at this one of kind gem with more twists than a Shyamalan movie in what I am deeming the first "Must-Play" game of 2021. 

Harmony of Workings (Balance/Interest/Gameplay): 10/10

Not a single shortcoming here. I haven't been this glued to my seat or had my mind hypnotized by a game in quite some time. Boy does it also feel super good to open that fresh new pack in hopes of getting that game changing buff or card to allow us to progress. What a rush! The creators were able to combine so many beloved genres and elements in a harmonious way that works exceptionally well. They are even able to combine elements that I have never even seen before in a game, such as taking a worrisome peak in my hard-drive to deliver an exclusive boss fight experience.  The mechanics progress without hindrance, allow for customization and add fresh new quirks and fragments while still maintaining the course of an uncomplicated enjoyable experience- there are no gripes. 

Unique Entities (Characters): 10/10

 From the ominous bosses turned personable, to computerized bolts brought to life, to spooky spellcasters with purpose, to charming beasts brought to life- the kooky characters in the game are quite delightful.  The plethora of viable deck builds allows for all sorts of character tastes. You are almost certain to find something you like and if you don't maybe you can even create your own card/character. 

Triumphs/Keepsakes (Achievements/Trophies):

4/10 difficulty, 18-25 hour range for all achievements. There are several missable achievements and (Secret) achievements at that. Be sure to do some research before moving to the next act if you want to grab them all. Guide coverage is thin at the moment but will surely gain momentum as this game does. 

Undefined duty (Other): 

I am in awe of this game. I would be remiss if I didn't throw this game directly into the conversation for game of the year. The unmatched inventive experience paired with incredible atmosphere and ingenious details makes for a one-of-a-kind, must play title.  Shout out Daniel Mullins Games. 

  Twitter 

#inscryption #gamereviews #pcgaming #steam #indiegames #videogameblogger