Inkulinati

A rare balance of playfulness and genuine strategic depth, plucked from the margins of history.

Are there better, more complicated tactical strategy games out there for the Switch? Absolutely, but few of them are quite as entertaining as Inkulinati. In fact, none of them let you use a creature's butt quite as frequently or as effectively. The absurd humour doesn't stop the game from offering some unique tactical options, even if it errs on the easy side for our liking.

After being in early access on multiple platforms, Inkulinati delivers a satisfying game with an original art style in its full release. The colorful, humorous character art and animations are impressive and entertaining. A lot of effort went into creating a dense and intense combat system. However, Journey Mode becomes predictable within a few runs and could have been more innovative. The lack of online multiplayer is unfortunate too, especially for a game based on dueling. Inkulinati is a fun page-turner, but it’s still in need of several revisions.

Overall, Inkulinati can be a fun experience for anyone willing to give it a shot. The art style is incredibly charming, the gameplay is surprisingly deep, and its roguelite Journey Mode can be pretty engaging. However, the game also spends too much time telling players how to play it rather than letting them learn at their own pace. Additionally, the humor, lack of an online mode, and the fact it does not do anything truly groundbreaking with the concept may push some players away. But even with all of that, fans of the genre may still find something to love here.

Inkulinati is a peculiar strategy game with layered and deep gameplay and a unique art style that offers many hours of fun, provided you get past the daunting tutorial.

The turn-based affair isn’t for everyone as it moves at a snail’s pace, for the most part, it gives weight to each battle but during a long play session, tedium can set in. That being said, if you’re aware of the plodding nature, this off-beat battler is a rare gem that is both funny and meaningful. The standout of the piece is the medieval styling, which looks as if Terry Gilliam was responsible for putting together the Magna Carta. While I was thoroughly sold on the visuals and humour, there was no better feeling than obtaining the win by using a fart-push combo to dispatch that last opponent. Inkulinati might not be for everyone, but for those who like the strategy genre, then you’re in for a fun time.

Overall, Inkulinati is a really unique strategy title that’s also tons of fun to play. There are lots of games out there trying copy the successful formula from other roguelikes, but thankfully enough, this one goes for a different route. It might borrow some elements from other games that preceded it, but Inkulinati plots its own path.

While Inkulinati isn't groundbreaking by any means, its unique presentation draws you in. The title has a lot to offer to fans of the genre. While the game is not complex, it can surprise an unprepared player - its simplicity is deceptive. It's endearing, it's humorous and it's fun, what's not to like?

Inkulinati stands out with a wacky setting and tone for a game that executes the turn-based strategy style very well, even stumbling over confusing controls and an uninspired interface.

Inkulinati manages to blend style and substance, creating a game that is mechanically simple yet has a ton of strategic depth for players to discover. If you’re a fan of board games, strategy games, or even just the art style, I’d recommend checking this one out. Who knows, you might be the next Inkulinati Master.