Released: Feb 13th, 2024
Get it here! Steam
A Familiar World, Reforged in Roguelike Fire
ASTLIBRA Revision Gaiden: The Cave of Phantom Mist takes the beloved combat and character customization of ASTLIBRA Revision and injects them with a shot of roguelike adrenaline. This DLC plays more like a post-game bonus for veterans of the base game, focusing heavily on refined combat encounters and strategic progression within the confines of a sprawling, ever-shifting dungeon.
Sharpened Steel: Combat Evolved
The core gameplay loop remains a joy. The combat is satisfyingly combo-heavy, with the addition of a new “style system” offering distinct character builds that further enhance your strategic options. Each delve into the cave presents new enemy layouts and challenges, keeping the action fresh. While the narrative takes a backseat, fans of the base game will appreciate occasional encounters with familiar faces and the exploration of lingering lore.
A Slow Burn with Satisfying Rewards
The roguelike elements add a layer of risk-reward tension. While death sends you back to the beginning, you retain valuable materials and skill tree progress. This loop encourages experimentation and strategic build crafting, making each successful descent feel like a hard-earned victory. Some may find the story progression slow due to its fragmentary nature, delivered in bits and pieces between forays into the cave.
A Must-Play for Fans, Caution for Newcomers
The Cave of Phantom Mist is a love letter to those who adored ASTLIBRA Revision’s combat. The refined mechanics, strategic depth, and ever-evolving challenges offer a compelling reason to revisit this world. However, newcomers might find the lack of a strong narrative and the initial slow pace a barrier to entry. If you’re a fan hungry for more ASTLIBRA, The Cave of Phantom Mist delivers a potent blend of familiar thrills and roguelike innovation.
