Tails of Iron

Tails Of Iron is a fun 2D Soulslike that will really tickle anyone who loves Redwall. The combat and world are both detailed and good, so it's a shame about all the padding in the middle.

With its tough-but-fair combat, timeless storybook visuals, and unique furry fantasy, Tails of Iron is one of the year’s most distinctive RPG experiences. The intentionally subdued pace and challenging nature will definitely test the impatient, but anyone looking for a knuckle-cracking slugger, powered by a tale of valor and vengeance, will find Odd Bug Studio’s sophomore effort washes down like a fine flask of Bug Juice.

Tails of Iron is a beautiful and charming side-scroller with brutal combat and a grim story. Fight as the rat king Redgi and reclaim your kingdom.

Let’s circle back to our original question: does innovation and novelty always translate to a good gaming experience? The short answer is: no! Tales of Iron 2 could have been something special – or at least a better game. But unfortunately, innovation for the sake of innovation held it back.

Tails of Iron tells an impressively deep story with no dialogue and keeps you entertained in the interim with witty charm and gruesome combat. Definitely worth a try if you are a fan of soulslikes.

While exploration is fun enough, it’s the combat system that is the real standout here, simple enough to be quickly learned but intricate enough to provide plenty of variety, particularly during the fun boss fights.

Tails of Iron is sort of the third Witcher in the realm of indie titles. Not because Doug Cockle voices the narrator, but because it strives for maximum precision in every aspect. The visuals are absolutely immersive, the combat system—though it doesn’t bring anything new to the genre—is fun, and the music hasn’t been overlooked either. And by that I mean it’s also very well done and atmospheric. The story won’t blow you away, and a certain repetitiveness in the game is tiring, but it’s still a great game.

I have to say, I don't often play games like ToI. I don't mean souls-likes, or RPGs or Indie Games. I mean games that I excitedly yell at people about. Tails of Iron wasn't a transcended experience, it won't revolutionize the gaming industry or anything. It is, however, a well-designed, fun and charming game. It's something I simply need you to experience, and if it can make me feel that way, it deserves some praise. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to beat the game again on Bloody Whisker difficulty to get that last achievement. Tata!

Tails of Iron is a hidden gem within the dark fantasy genre and well-worth exploring if you don't mind all the death that will follow.

A journey that begins with difficulty and ends more easily, which may alienate players looking for a hardcore souslike experience.