Turn-based combat in an Medieval manuscript universe
The enemy leader is running out of ink and that’s great given the battlefield situation. He can’t be pushed into the flames of apocalypse that are set to appear next turn, but I have a big dog with a mace next to him, ready to deliver solid blows until his retinue of protectors manages to whittle down his health. His limited resources mean he cannot summon more allies.
I use one of my archers to strike two enemies with a special ability, place a rabbit on an ink puddle, and then end my turn. Once the new chapter starts, one of his swordsmen deals damage and my big dog attacks. An enemy archer strikes the representation of my Ink Master. I then activate this tiny avatar and draw another spear fox into existence.
I then choose to ring a bell to re-activate my most capable unit again and deal another blow to the enemy leader. I could finish him off next turn, but the flames of the Apocalypse are spreading and do that before I can strike again. It’s time to think about what new beast I want to recruit, and which special ability will serve me best as I explore a new map and move to fight another Ink Master.
Inkulinati is developed by Yaza Games and published by Daedalic Entertainment. I played the PC version on Steam. The game is also on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and older consoles from Microsoft and Sony. The title combines a unique style with turn-driven combat and rogue-lite concepts.
The game’s universe is based on Medieval Europe, with the unique twists that a substance called Living Ink exists. Inkulinati Masters use it to make their drawing come alive and then battle each other for gold and glory. The game’s campaign cleverly integrates historical figures and even a well-known science fiction character, creating a world that is clever and unique.
