The Royal Writ is a medieval roguelike deckbuilder game. Its central concept is "card permadeath," where cards that reach the enemy base are permanently removed from the player's deck for the rest of the run. This forces players to think carefully about every move, as some sacrifices are necessary to win.

In The Royal Writ, every run is unique, thanks to its roguelike progression and gradual difficulty ladder, which keeps the experience fresh for beginners and experienced players within the genre. The charming art style and memorable NPC encounters add a quirky personality that makes the game stand out from other deckbuilders.

A kingdom filled with quirky characters

A key part of The Royal Writ’s experience is building an army of quirky, battle-hardened animals, each with unique abilities that shape the player's strategy. From a frail flamingo to a crafty lizard, every card feels important and has its own story, which adds a personal touch to each run. The game features two distinct campaigns with unique cards, bosses, and strategic challenges, giving players a variety of experiences.

The game's strongest aspect is the story it creates through the "sacrifice creates stories" mechanic. Players honor the subjects who gave everything for the cause, and their sacrifices are remembered in the legacy they build. This narrative element, combined with the game's charming art style and music, provides a very enjoyable experience that keeps players engaged and invested in their run.

However, the game's unique design can be a double-edged sword. Some find the second campaign to be frustrating, as many of its cards and mechanics seem to work against the player. There are also some unintuitive card interactions, which can lead to confusion and lost runs. A few bugs and a steep learning curve can make the first few hours feel a bit overwhelming, limiting the appeal to certain players.

Give this game a try

In conclusion, The Royal Writ is a unique and engaging deckbuilder that offers a fresh take on the genre. The game's art style, music, and charming narrative make it a fun experience. While some of its mechanics, particularly in the second campaign, can be frustrating, its core gameplay and permanent loss mechanic provide a compelling and strategic adventure for both beginners and experienced gamers.