Sneak Peek: Vanguard Exiles (PC)

Alright, diving into the chaotic world of Early Access — a place I find oddly comforting. Yeah, really. It’s like being backstage at a play that’s still figuring itself out. Once upon a time, Early Access was — ugh — a swamp of half-baked concepts or eternal promises. Not every developer, sure, but enough to make it feel sketchy. Those days are mostly gone now, thank goodness. So, Vanguard Exiles is on my radar today. High hopes, folks.

I mean, it’s from the brains behind Magic: The Gathering. That alone is enough to catch your eye, right? No cards here, though. Instead, it’s a hex-based brawler with the vibe of a tabletop game. Imagining it boxed with miniatures? Already calling dibs on a set.

Anyway… Vanguard Exiles is still growing in Early Access, so what you see now could change. Critiques? Sure, but it’s early, and lots of it revolves around the dreaded RNG. Really, RNG is like that one stubborn puzzle piece you just can’t fit anywhere.

So, what’s it about? You’re in charge of mercenaries, navigating trenches, and holding rooms. Points add up, and reach 80? You win. Different rooms, different perks. Gold here, strength there, surprise bear in another — seriously, an angry bear. Strategic decisions are key. You won’t conquer all, so pick wisely.

It’s an auto-battler, which might put off some folks, but strategy’s still a big deal. Decide your forces’ moves — too much in one place? Uh-oh, rest of the board’s wide open. Spread thin? Easy target. Balance is tricky, but part of the charm.

Loads of units, too. But, randomness reigns in card picks between rounds. Want stronger warriors? Accumulate that gold. Even without coins, there’s always a free choice. No dead ends here. The cards? More deployment tools than anything else. It’s not some intense card game, trust me.

But hey, it’s not all roses. The lore’s kinda thin right now. Factions exist, cool units do cool stuff, but why? That depth is missing, the “fluff” that gives flavor. It’s early days, though. They’ll likely want the game mechanics solid before adding story layers.

Balancing’s another thing. Some days feel fair and square, others — not so much. A bad start is a rough comeback. Sometimes I just know when to hit reset, which isn’t ideal. Playing should feel like there’s always a chance, tweaks pending.

Oh, and those unkillable units! Dwarves, armored up to the teeth, create stalemates. Finding counters early game? Tough. This needs sorting, or games risk feeling stagnant.

Still, with some polish, Vanguard Exiles could be stellar. Keeping an eye on its evolution. Dive in now? Absolutely, it’s already showing promise. Balance fixes, story depth, and we might be onto a winner.

(Note: Preview based on an Early Access copy from the publisher.)