Developer – PolyPirates UG, Lizard Child

Publisher – PolyPirates UG

Platforms –  PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Developer (PolyPirates UG)

What if the fate of classic fairy tales rested in the unpredictable hands of a roguelike deck-builder, paired with the luck of rolling dice? That’s exactly what Once Upon a Rogue’s Tale delivers—an innovative blend of strategic deckbuilding, dice-driven decision-making, and the enchanting world of beloved fairytale characters. In this game, players are thrust into a magical adventure where iconic figures such as Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and The Frog Prince are reimagined and thrown into a whirlwind of chaotic encounters.

The core of Once Upon a Rogue’s Tale lies in its captivating mix of strategy and chance. Players must not only carefully construct and manage their decks of powerful cards, but they must also rely on the luck of the dice to influence each decision and outcome. Every move in battle and story progression is shaped by this combination, creating a dynamic experience that constantly shifts between tactical planning and unpredictable moments of fortune.

Beyond the combat, the game’s storytelling is equally engaging, weaving familiar fairytale elements with unexpected twists and turns. Each playthrough offers new encounters, as the randomly generated sequences of events ensure that no two adventures feel the same. Whether you’re outsmarting a tricky antagonist, gathering allies from across the fairytale world, or facing off against powerful foes, the game challenges players to adapt, strategize, and embrace the whimsy of a world where anything can happen with a roll of the dice.

The game’s combination of deckbuilding and dice mechanics ensures that combat remains dynamic and engaging. While cards provide a variety of attacks, spells, and abilities, it’s the dice rolls that determine whether and how they can be used. Beyond attacking, dice rolls also activate powerful character abilities, making each roll a crucial moment in the battle. This multi-layered system adds an element of unpredictability, pushing players to adapt their strategies on the fly. Do you save a powerful card for the perfect roll, or rely on smaller abilities to keep yourself in the fight?

Outside of combat, Once Upon a Rogue’s Tale tests players with tough decisions that have lasting repercussions. The choices made during special events shape the story’s direction and are recorded in your personal storybook. These narrative moments create a deep sense of immersion, making you feel like the author of your own fairytale. With branching storylines and moral dilemmas, the lines between good and evil blur. Characters like the Big Bad Wolf or the Giant from Jack and the Beanstalk could even become unlikely allies, depending on your actions.

Visually, Once Upon a Rogue’s Tale boasts a charming, anime-inspired art style that brings its fairytale world to life. The vibrant, colorful backdrops and beautifully designed characters make the world feel as enchanting as the stories it’s based on.

Once Upon a Rogue’s Tale masterfully weaves together classic fairytale elements with intricate, strategic gameplay. The unique integration of dice rolls, and card mechanics, guarantees that every battle feels fresh and unpredictable. The narrative-driven events present impactful decisions that influence the destinies of both protagonists and antagonists. With its dynamic gameplay, high replayability, and a branching story shaped by your choices, this game carves out its own niche within the roguelike genre.