Roguebook

If the Switch is your only avenue to play Roguebook, I would still recommend it to deck-builder fans looking for a solid take on the genre. I would steer clear of handheld mode as long as it lacks a font size option. Although the best version of the roguelike remains on PC with a mouse and keyboard, Roguebook still offers tons of fun on the Switch. Just be ready to squint a lot.

Whatever platform you play Roguebook on, its sheer quality helps elevate it to the top of a genre that has become far too overused over the past five years. The precision balancing and depth of the gameplay, the entertaining design and varied exploration elements combine to overcome the fact that you’ve probably played what Roguebook is offering a few times over by now.

While you are partially at the mercy of random elements, there’s a great degree of agency in how your chosen heroes and their abilities work together. I think the core game here is just as good as titles like Slay the Spire or Monster Train, but the Switch conversion leaves a bit to be desired. Play it elsewhere if you can, but if you enjoy the genre and only have a Switch, you’ll probably be able to put up with this port’s issues.

Rougebook offers enough unique takes on gameplay to create a compelling experience for those highly interested in deck building games and a fun experience for those who aren’t quite as familiar with the genre. The dual hero system and presentation truly makes Rougebook stand out. However, the usual issues with the deck building game remain. It’s the random luck of the draw as to whether you’re given good enough cards to succeed in battle. Otherwise, you have to grind your way around to find useful cards or upgrades to help you. It might not be a game for everyone, but Roguebook is definitely worth checking out.

Roguebook is an interesting roguelike deck-building game with a difficulty curve that could either frustrate or excite you. If you like a challenge, and enjoy card battles, consider picking this one up.