Basic Info
- Official Name: The Ouroboros King
- Developer/Publisher: Oriol Cosp
- Release Dates:
- PC: June 25, 2024
- Nintendo Switch: June 25, 2024
- PlayStation 4: TBA
- Supported Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4
- Game Type: Chess-inspired Roguelike, Strategy
- Social Media:
- Twitter: @OriolCosp
- Steam Page: store.steampowered.com/app/822830/Ouroboros/
- Official Website: oriolcosp.com
In-Depth Review
Combining the strategic depth of chess with the replayability of roguelikes, The Ouroboros King offers a unique twist on traditional board games. Players take on the role of a deposed monarch aiming to reclaim their kingdom by defeating a dark coven through turn-based chess battles. Each victory grants rewards and progression, while defeats send you back to the start with carryover items, emphasizing roguelike persistence.
The game shines on PC with smooth performance and intuitive controls, allowing players to plan moves meticulously. However, the console port struggles with optimization issues, particularly on Switch, where frame rate drops and loading times disrupt immersion. Despite these technical hiccups, the core mechanics remain compelling, blending chess tactics with RPG elements like character upgrades and procedurally generated maps.
The narrative framework, while minimal, provides enough context to justify the gameplay loop. Chess pieces evolve into more powerful variants, adding layers of strategy to each encounter. Multiplayer support through Steam Workshop content extends replay value, though the lack of cross-platform play limits community interaction. For fans of chess or roguelikes, The Ouroboros King delivers a challenging yet rewarding experience best enjoyed on PC.
Game Link: Ouroboros