Release Date: June 6th, 2017
Developer: Headup Games
Platform: PlayStation 4 (reviewed), Xbox One, and Steam
Price: $10

Pixel Heroes: Byte & Magic from Headup Games was already released on iOS and Android but the game has finally made it way to the other platforms. Join The Gamers Lounge as we play this 2D pixelated RPG/Rogue-like that takes us back to yesterday. Is this a game for the casual gamer or the hardcore RPG fan?

The game starts by letting players pick a 3 person party from a large group of adventurers in a tavern. Players can select all sorts of classes and this includes fighters, wizards, clerics, bards, enchantresses, witches, rogues and a ton of other options. I recommend some sort of healer, fighter and a dps machine such as a mage or a specialized class.

Players began their adventure by starting in the village. There is a handful of the usual RPG actions. Players can find quests, sell items, talk to townspeople, go to the temple, etc. This part of the game reminded me of a lot of older RPGS; from here, players head toward one of the 13 dungeons on a quest. There isn't a fast travel option, but the party will auto walk across the overworld toward the dungeon. There might be some random encounters and players will soon discover that items and gear can be equipped any time outside of combat.

Combat is the meat of the game. Pixel Heroes features turned based combat with cool downs on a 2D plane. Some player classes can hit enemies in the back of the row or they have attacks to hit multiple enemies. Players can have two weapons or spells as well as two skills. I played for a few hours and leveled up my characters and I was disappointed there weren't any options to change my skills. Each level lets gamers add points to their individual party members’ stats, such as strength, life, dexterity, and intelligence.

Combat can be difficult; players will need to be wary of debuffs and lingering damage attacks like burning or curse. This can turn the tide of combat against players who don't pay attention. Between combat and exploration of the dungeon players can heal if needed. The gear players can find or purchase varies and it is a good idea to pick up items that offer a boost in defense against certain attacks and boost the parties abilities. If party members die in combat, they can be revived at a temple in town. Try to pay attention to the details about each dungeon to better prepare.

Graphically the game is all 8 bit pixels but this is easy on the eyes. There is a lot of subtle humor. The music is light and entertaining. I thought there were a lot of options during the game. I think $10 is a great price and there is a lot of replay value with over 30 classes to unlock.

Pros:

-Lots of class options for different play styles

-Easy enough in the beginning for new players to enjoy

-Lots of replay value

Cons:

-Was a mobile game originally controls leave something to be desired

-Game can be slow paced

-Game can get hard quickly

Pixel Heroes: Byte & Magic Review