Aethermancer

The main pros of the game

• Engaging Mechanics: Users appreciate the depth of mechanics, strategy, and the variety of abilities and traits, allowing for diverse team compositions and strategies. The combat system is noted for being fun and rewarding.
• Art and Design: The game's pixel art and monster designs are frequently praised for their beauty and creativity. Animations are generally smooth and enhance the gameplay experience.
• Replayability: The roguelike elements contribute to high replay value, with each run feeling unique due to random monster encounters and abilities.
• Challenge and Difficulty: Many players find the difficulty well-tuned, providing a satisfying challenge that encourages learning and experimentation.
• Potential for Growth: There is optimism about the game's future development, with players excited for additional content and improvements as it progresses through early access.

The main cons of the game

• Combat Speed: A common complaint is that combat can be slow, with calls for speed-up options (1.5x or 2x speed) to improve pacing during longer runs.
• Balance Issues: Some monsters and mechanics are perceived as overpowered, leading to balance concerns, particularly with the corruption mechanic which punishes players heavily if they do not use specific strategies.
• Platforming and Exploration: Players feel that the platforming elements are unnecessary and do not add meaningful exploration opportunities, making traversal feel tedious.
• Limited Equipment Slots: The restriction of having only one equipment slot per monster is criticized, as it limits strategic combinations and excitement in finding new gear.
• Repetitiveness: Some users note that the game can become repetitive due to a lack of variety in encounters and environments, especially in early access.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Improved UI and Quality of Life Features: Suggestions include better clarity in enemy actions and statuses, as well as enhancements to the user interface for easier navigation and understanding of mechanics.
• More Content Variety: Players desire additional biomes, monsters, and unique events or challenges to keep runs fresh and engaging.
• Alternative Game Modes: Some users express interest in modes that allow for more traditional monster training or endless runs without the roguelike constraints.
• Adjustments to the Corruption Mechanic: Many players want a rework of the corruption system to reduce its punitive nature and encourage more diverse team builds without forcing reliance on specific strategies.
• Speed-up Options: There is a clear demand for options to accelerate combat animations to enhance the flow of gameplay during longer encounters.

Summary

• Overall, "Aethermancer" is viewed positively by players, with a strong foundation and significant potential for improvement as it evolves through early access.

Summary generated on: October 16, 2025