Monster Train Review

A rolling roguelike

Slay the Spire was one of my favorite games released last year and one of those titles that I just knew it was going to be a great game after only a few minutes of play. Since its release and early access, I’ve seen several games that attempted to clone or mirror its success, but none of them did it with the same eye towards design and aesthetics until now.

Monster Train is a smart execution on Slay the Spire’s theme but also manages to go its own direction with a different focus on roguelike design.

Trainspotting

Monster Train follows the last remnants of hell who have banded together to try and reignite the heart of hell that has been taken over by the angels.

For each run, you’ll choose your deck by picking two of the available factions. Whichever you make your primary will get you a champion: a powerful unit who can be played each encounter and upgrades throughout a run. Factions are made up of spell and unit cards, with each faction having a different theme and special effects.

From there, you’ll begin an eight-stage run to the center of hell while fighting the angels along the way. For each area of hell, there are always two paths with the possible events and shops randomized on each play. Shops are vital, as they will provide you…