Review: New Arc Line
Image Credit: Dreamate, New Arc Line
New Arc Line is a new CRPG (computer role-playing game) / Tactical RPG set in a steampunk world. It's inspired by Arcane and has just launched in Early Access. While the game shows promise, it’s still a work in progress. Here’s what I think so far:
The World and Graphics
The game’s world looks cool, combining steampunk machines with fantasy elements. You can create your character, choosing between two races (human or elf with more planned in the future), and pick hairstyles, skin colors, and more. The cities and areas you explore are nicely detailed and have a grungy industrial vibe.
Role-Playing and Choices
The role-playing system is the best part. You can use skills like persuasion, deception, or intimidation in conversations. Sometimes you roll dice, just like in tabletop games, to decide if you succeed. These choices make the game feel alive and let you handle situations in different ways.
For example, if someone blocks your way, you can talk them into letting you through, scare them, or even pay them off. This adds a lot of variety to the story.
Image Credit: Dreamate, New Arc Line
Combat and Gameplay
Combat is turn-based, where you move characters on a grid and use special abilities. I fought a decent amount of enemies and the system seems solid, but it didn’t feel too hard yet. Spells like totems and poison attacks are fun to use, and I can see combat getting more interesting as the game develops.
Exploring the world is certainly rewarding. You find hidden items and meet strange characters. You also pass skill checks to notice things others might miss.
What Needs Work
Unfinished Features: Since it’s in Early Access some parts of the game feel incomplete, like the sound and voice acting.
Simple Combat: Early fights are pretty basic. Hopefully, tougher and smarter enemies will show up later.
Missing Details: Some parts of the world feel empty or unfinished, like the limited options for character building and the lack of interactions with your party members.
Image Credit: Dreamate, New Arc Line
Our Rating
New Arc Line has a lot of potential. The world and role-playing mechanics stand out, but it’s still early. If you love CRPGs and don’t mind helping test an unfinished game, it’s worth a try. Otherwise, you might want to wait until it’s more polished.
We’ll update this once the game is fully released and we can jump in all the way!
Early Access Rating: 7/10
It could be amazing with some work!
Review by Andrew Hamel
