Prime of Flames may well deserve and get promoted to its own dedicated thread.
It combines the three act model and node-to-node progression of Slay the Spire with some thoroughly crunchy and satisfying turn-based tactics, very Fire Emblem like in slickness and sophistication, albeit with its own distinct and creative systems instead of the weapon triangle.
The node to node progression within each act is however brought to life through encounters, mini-stories, events and choices, with gorgeous visuals and a thumping musical beat in the background that feel - to me - like they deliver a consistent and entrancing ambience.
You begin with a small party of 4, which you can build up to 8 or so, including ‘core’ hero units and animal units, and summons. Later, you can ‘merge’ those hero units with animals, making them riders. Your core units gain levels, which gives them new abilities, adding to tactical options in combat. Also, like in Slay, you can pick up relics that buff various things, there is a lot going on.
Yet wait! It is also like Darkest Dungeon, in that your roguelite runs harvest you resources you can use to develop a home village, giving you new options and various boons for future runs.
And and and, you can play as different clans, like in Monster Train, and the clan hero types and core mechanics are very, very different and novel.
So, in sum, I am invoking Slay the Spire, Fire Emblem, Darkest Dungeon and Monster Train. @Misguided HAS to buy this, but others should too :-P
P.S. It is a purely visual treat, but one more invocation! Your party of heroes (and animals) walks along the bottom of the screen, similar to what you see in The Banner Saga. This provides a lovely connection to what would otherwise be a disembodied ‘party’. Nice touch.
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