Tower of Mask Review: A Unique and Thrilling NEW Dungeon Crawler!
0Tower of Mask is a gripping new release dungeon crawler and survival horror RPG that blends the grid-based movement and puzzle-solving of Legend of Grimrock with a faster, more action-focused combat system. Developed by the solo Japanese indie studio Papertip Studio, this game proves that passion and creativity can rival big-budget productions. While it's not perfect, Tower of Mask is a short but unforgettable experience with its unique charm and intriguing mechanics.
The narrative in Tower of Mask is subtle and enigmatic. You ascend a foreboding tower littered with cryptic notes from prior adventurers. As you progress, more mysteries unfold, though the story remains secondary to the gameplay. The oppressive and claustrophobic atmosphere is where the game truly shines. The ambient sounds of creaking floors, faint echoes, and unsettling enemy movements heighten the tension. Sometimes, you’re left wondering if the footsteps you hear are your own or someone—or something—else’s.
While the lack of a robust narrative might disappoint some players, the minimalism works in the game’s favor, emphasizing exploration and survival over exposition.
The gameplay strikes a balance between accessibility and challenge. Like its spiritual predecessor, Legend of Grimrock, movement is grid-based, and the dungeons are filled with hidden switches, keys, and clever puzzles. However, Tower of Mask distinguishes itself with its streamlined combat and survival elements.
Combat: Unlike most dungeon crawlers where you manage a party, you play as a lone adventurer. Combat involves free aiming and precise timing rather than simply clicking and hoping for a hit. Each enemy has a distinct mask, serving as their weak point, which you must target to deal effective damage. Enemies move unpredictably, sometimes exploiting your position to strike or retreat. This dynamic makes battles intense and requires a mix of strategy and reflexes.
Stats and Progression: The game forgoes ability points in favor of straightforward stat upgrades. Strength determines damage, Dexterity governs attack speed, and Willpower affects your ability to aim magic staves or firearms. This simplified system makes the game approachable for newcomers to the genre.
Survival Horror Elements: Enemy masks aren’t just aesthetic—they define their behavior. Some enemies poison you, others teleport or phase through walls, and each encounter feels fresh and unsettling. Adding to the tension, equipment deteriorates over time, forcing you to manage your resources carefully.
Puzzles and Secrets: The puzzles are a highlight, growing more intricate as you descend. From pressure plates activated by thrown objects to hidden switches revealed in darkness, the game rewards observation and creativity. Exploration is equally rewarding, with shortcuts and secrets waiting to be discovered by sharp-eyed adventurers.
At 5-7 hours for an average playthrough (or 10-12 hours on easy mode), Tower of Mask is shorter than many dungeon crawlers. For some, this might be a drawback, but the concise runtime ensures the game remains focused and avoids overstaying its welcome. Save points and a shared chest system keep frustration to a minimum, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to the genre.
Veterans might find the puzzles and mechanics on the simpler side, but the faster combat and unsettling atmosphere provide a fresh take on the formula.
Visually, the game delivers a solid, if not groundbreaking, presentation. The dungeon’s shadowy stone architecture and eerie lighting create an immersive environment. Enemy designs, while humanoid, are animated with unnerving realism that adds to the horror vibe.
The sound design leans heavily on ambient noises, with occasional melodies that tie into puzzles. While the music is sparse, it complements the game’s oppressive atmosphere effectively.
For its price and the fact that it was developed by a single person, Tower of Mask is an impressive achievement. Fans of dungeon crawlers will appreciate its unique combat system, rewarding exploration, and creepy ambiance. While it may lack the depth and polish of larger titles like Legend of Grimrock, it makes up for it with its heart, creativity, and bite-sized approachability.
If you’re a seasoned dungeon crawler fan, Tower of Mask might feel a bit straightforward, but its engaging combat and horror elements still make it a worthwhile experience.
Final Verdict: 9/10
Despite its shorter length and occasional lack of visual polish, Tower of Mask delivers a thrilling and memorable experience.
Tower of Mask - 1.0 Launched on January 7, 2024!
Platform: PC (Steam) Price: $10.99 USD
Link:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2918410/Tower_of_Mask/
1980s dungeon RPGs transcend time to become a shocking survival horror. Embark on an adventure, heroes, and challenge the tower where eerie masked humans prowl!