Discovering Monster Monpiece: A Unique Card Game Experience
Introduction to Monster Monpiece
While exploring the titles available on Keymailer from Idea Factory International, I stumbled upon a game that caught my attention: Monster Monpiece. This intriguing card game features stunning artwork created by the talented teams at Compile Heart and Idea Factory Japan. My curiosity was piqued, prompting me to dive into this unique gaming experience.
Game Overview
- Title: Monster Monpiece
- Platforms: PlayStation Vita, PC (Reviewed)
- Developers: Compile Heart
- Publishers: Idea Factory International
- Release Date: March 14, 2017
- Price: $9.99
Gameplay Mechanics
In Monster Monpiece, players step into the role of May, a budding Beast Master assigned a beast partner for training. As a Beast Master, your objective is to utilize various monsters in battles against other Beast Masters or creatures. The combat system is structured as an engaging card game.
Combat System Explained
The combat mechanics are straightforward yet strategic:
- Players flip a coin to determine who goes first—red for enemies and blue for you.
- Each player starts with five cards in hand.
- Every turn grants three mana points and allows you to draw one additional card.
- Cards have varying mana costs; thus, building an efficient deck is crucial.
Card Roles and Strategies
Each card can serve one of four roles:
- Melee Units: High attack but low health.
- Rangers: Low attack and health but can strike from afar.
- Buffers: Weak offensively but enhance adjacent allies’ stats.
- Healers: Limited damage output but capable of restoring health based on remaining MP.
Combat occurs across three lanes where placed cards advance toward the enemy’s headquarters or engage with other characters on the field.
The Positive Aspects of Monster Monpiece
Monster Monpiece excels in several areas that make it enjoyable:
Engaging Combat Mechanics
The game’s combat system satisfies my craving for strategic gameplay through its well-designed mechanics that encourage thoughtful deck-building strategies.
Deck Customization Features
One standout feature is the ability to boost your units by playing three cards of the same color consecutively—this enhances their stats while also increasing your mana pool! Additionally, there’s an innovative fusion mechanic allowing players to combine different species types (e.g., Beast or Dragon) for enhanced attributes.
As you progress through battles and earn currency, you’ll unlock new packs containing more powerful cards—adding depth and excitement as you build your collection!
Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, there are some design choices in Monster Monpiece that could be reconsidered:
Evolution Mechanic Concerns
While evolving cards adds an element of fan service appealing to many players, it can lead to unpredictable outcomes regarding stat changes post-evolution—a potential drawback if you’re relying on specific abilities from lower-cost versions of those cards.
Microtransactions & Online Play Limitations
Although I appreciate having access to additional resources via real money purchases within the online storefront feature available in-game (especially since it’s PvE), it feels somewhat out-of-place given there’s no PvP mode available on PC at present—a missed opportunity considering how much fun multiplayer could add!
Final Thoughts on Monster Monpiece
After evaluating its price point compared with gameplay quality offered by Steam’s listing—it’s hard not being impressed! With deep mechanics providing hours upon hours worth enjoyment especially if you’re passionate about card games—I wholeheartedly recommend giving this title a try whether you’re drawn by its captivating art style or simply love engaging strategy-based experiences!
Review Disclosure Statement: This review was made possible thanks to Idea Factory International providing us access for evaluation purposes; please refer back our Review Guideline/Scoring Policy should further clarification be needed regarding our reviewing process!
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