This is the review for the PC version of SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition by developer Black Shell Media, LLC.
SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition is a humorous and strategic turn-based dungeon crawling ASCII adventure. Drawing heavy inspiration from both Roguelikes and Japanese RPGs, the game offers a robust action-RPG inspired combat system.
Graphics
SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition are all done wonderfully in good-old fashioned ASCII code. What we really enjoyed are the splashes of color that the screens displayed so it wasn’t all white typing. The symbols amazingly portrayed enemies, footsteps and many other illustrations that were very apparent. The graphics just take a little getting used to because they are different than any current gen game titles. For these reasons, we gave the graphics a 4.5 / 5.
Sound
SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition has a very easy-flowing soundtrack. The music seems to correspond with the area that your character is currently in. And, of course, in battles, the sounds get more assertive and fast, as should be. No complaints there. We gave the sound a 5 / 5.
Gameplay
SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition gameplay is partly turn-based. The player basically types in the attack or heal commands by number or letter. You don’t have to type sentences, just one letter or one number. After your character attacks or takes action, you wait for the opponent to attack. A message will pop up on the screen letting you know what just happened and then you take the next action. The screen will let you know if your health is low or what is available for you to use. There is also questing, finding and equipping new gear, weapons, and more. Again, messages will pop up on the screen letting you know what’s going on. You can save your progress or choose to go to the main menu. We gave the gameplay a 4.5 / 5.
Controls for SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition are all typed in, such as R for Heal, Z for Library, etc. You can always type 0 (zero) for Menu if you get stuck. Everything is very well laid out for you and all you need to do is press one button at a time. We didn’t run into any glitches and for this reason, we gave the controls a 5 / 5.
Overall
Overall, SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition is very different and reminds us of Wang-type games we used to play in the 80’s, but with a pretty robust battle system. The characters and graphics are very well laid out and the commands are refreshingly easy to follow. We like the ability to be able to skip some scenes and dive into battle or exploration. Overall, this game is a BUY for us, but only if you enjoy ASCII type games.
4.5 / 5
And here is the official game trailer:
SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition is now available on Steam for $5.99 (25% off). You can also download the free demo here.
Related: SanctuaryRPG: Black Edition in ASCII Now on Steam
I'm a published author and proud US Army veteran who happens to be a gamer, so I decided to combine the two and love every minute of it! Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments and I'll be sure to get back to you.
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