If we’re diving into the realm of officially licensed video games based in the Dungeons and Dragons universe, Baldur’s Gate 3 stands unparalleled. Stripping away the DnD elements, it still ranks among the finest co-op games ever crafted. Yet, its vastness and endless options, while adored by many, might feel daunting to some. Enter Sunderfolk—a fresh take aiming to recreate the laid-back feel of a DnD game night, all through the innovative use of each player’s smartphone. This highly anticipated project is ready for players, finally launching this year.
Now, just to clear things up right from the start: while smartphones play a key role, Sunderfolk isn’t a mobile game. Crafted by Secret Door, a creative team under former Blizzard head Mike Morhaime’s Dreamhaven, this game is a turn-based RPG designed for PC and consoles. The clever twist is that your phone acts as your controller, your inventory, your deck of cards, and even your DnD-style guide. To play, you and your friends just need to fire up the game on a shared screen, download the free app, scan the QR code displayed, and voilà, you’re all set up. There’s no need for everyone to buy the game individually—one copy suffices for the group.
Fans of party games might find some familiarity here, reminiscent of titles like Jackbox, but blending this level of interaction in a complex co-op RPG is a fresh concept—and not just a gimmick.
So, let’s talk about what Sunderfolk actually entails. Your adventure revolves around the enchanting village of Arden, nestled beneath a magical and vital Brightstone. Sadly, this Brightstone has fallen into corruption, drawing some unwelcome guests to Arden’s doorstep.
Players can choose from six distinct classes, each reflecting the classic fantasy RPG tropes—whether you fancy being an Arcanist, Bard, Berserker, Pyromancer, Ranger, or Rogue. Each class is represented by a unique animal character: raven, bat, polar bear, mini-dragon, ram, or a shinobi-inspired otter, respectively. Together, you tackle missions filled with strategic, turn-based battles. On your turn, you select an action and a card that can enhance your move, apply a positive modifier, or, if luck deserts you, weaken your attack or trigger debuffs.
After successfully completing a mission and keeping Arden safe for another day, you can return to the village, mingle with the locals, enhance your skills, and contribute to rebuilding this charming locale.
Considering the landscape of turn-based RPGs, while there are many to choose from, few can claim the same level of couch co-op innovation that Sunderfolk offers. Gather your comrades and dive into the experience.
Sunderfolk is available now on Steam for PC, and it’s also launched on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.
For deeper insights, browse through our top picks of fantasy games and leading co-op games.
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