Let’s dive into Monarchy (available now on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch), Developed and Published by Brain Seal Ltd. Monarchy is a 2D side-scrolling strategy game combining resource management, exploration, and battling with bandits. Think of it as a blend of medieval city-builder meets adventure quest, with a dollop of cartoonish charm. Its main competitor will be Kingdom Two Crowns, and we shall discuss their similarities and differences.
Monarchy: Reign Supreme or Just Another Knightmare?
If you’re a fan of Kingdom Two Crowns, then Monarchy should pique your interest. Meanwhile, Monarchy could be a close cousin, sharing that same base-building, resource-managing vibe. However, we’re eager to see how its 2D digital art style— instead of the pixelated look—might bring a new charm.
What stands out is Monarchy’s dynamic building freedom and the fresh challenges in each unique environment. Even fighting giant spiders we’re excited to explore these changes and uncover any surprises in store!
So, are you excited to dive into Monarchy? Do you have a particular feature you’re looking forward to, or do you think it’ll offer something fresh compared to Kingdom Two Crowns? Drop us a comment below, and let us know what you think!
Gameplay
Once you start Monarchy, there’s no option for mouse-clicking, only the keyboard can be used. It feels clunky for anyone accustomed to using a mouse to navigate menus. You’re thrust into the game with very little handholding – there are no tutorials to guide you, and only a single arrow hints at where to start. Exploration is more of the “learn through trial and error” variety.
In Monarchy, they market it as allowing you to place buildings wherever you choose. This isn’t quite the case, as you will have a cross if you have gone out of the bounds of placement. You can also only place certain kinds of buildings in a particular area. While overall, there is an allowance for more customisation than other games in the genre, it can also be frustrating at first as you need to figure out the best placement.
Initially, you start with a trusty archer by your side. Unlike other games like Kingdom Two Crowns, where you’re entirely solo (unless playing co-op), Monarchy starts you off with a companion ready to help hunt down animals for resources and beat the odd enemy. The major problem is that if they are killed, they cannot get another companion. Still, there’s a frustrating lack of guidance on how to expand your kingdom. The provided icons lack clear instructions for use, and new icons for building appear without explanation. Users must engage in some trial and error to understand their purpose.
Explore and Conquer: Caves, Bandits, and the Ever-Moving Goalpost
Graphics and Audio
Visually, Monarchy has a vibrant charm, making the game feel more alive than the pixelated style of Kingdom Two Crowns. It’s simple, yet it has enough detail to feel immersive. The lack of visual cues for certain actions (like knowing where to go at times) can detract from this experience, though. The soundtrack has a somewhat eerie, repetitive tone that feels at odds with the game’s setting, particularly during sunnier in-game days. Progressing through the game starting at tents and wooden defenses. Seeing this progress to Stone and seeing your army progress to was brilliant.
Longevity
When it comes to longevity, Monarchy may leave seasoned strategy fans wanting a bit more. With only four distinct levels, including the introduction, the game’s progression is straightforward and a bit limited. Each level, while visually distinct, offers only a single, linear map without the use of a boat that games like Kingdom Two Crowns provide.
You won’t find extra regions to explore or unique areas unlocked through replay. Once you complete a level, you won’t find much incentive to revisit unless the game’s aesthetic draws you back in. In terms of playtime, you can likely finish Monarchy in about four hours, making it a relatively brief experience for a strategy title. While it’s enjoyable at the moment, it may not offer the depth or variation to keep players coming back. If you’re looking for a light strategy session, Monarchy could be a nice choice—but don’t expect it to be a game that you’ll keep returning to for new discoveries.
Final Thoughts
Disclaimer: A code was received to write this review.
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