TL;DR
Mages of Mystralia is an accessible, family-friendly action-RPG that blends Diablo-like isometric combat with a unique spell customization system and a surprising emphasis on puzzle-solving. While it runs smoothly on Switch and boasts a charming aesthetic, the portable mode can make characters appear small, and the inability to move while casting spells can be a nuisance. Boss fights are visually appealing but lack depth. If you're looking for a magical adventure with deep customization and a thoughtful approach to gameplay, dive into the full review to see if it's your next quest!
In the indie game Mages of Mystralia, the protagonist, Zia, faces ostracization from her village due to her use of magic, which is strictly forbidden. She encounters a magician who guides her in controlling her abilities, empowering her to defend her home from the various monsters inhabiting the world.
My affinity for Diablo III is well-established, having previously awarded it a near-perfect score. Mages of Mystralia can be considered a more accessible and family-friendly iteration of a similar concept. The two titles share common elements, such as an isometric perspective and a clear red outline on enemies when targeted.
The game features a cartoonish aesthetic and performs smoothly on the Switch, in both docked and handheld modes, without noticeable lag. Originally released in 2017 for PC, PS4, and Xbox One, Mages of Mystralia, like many games ported to the Nintendo Switch, presents some visual challenges. The character model can appear quite small on the Switch’s portable screen. While this is not an issue on a TV, the reduced size in handheld mode can obscure details, potentially hindering puzzle-solving.
A key strength of the game lies in its spell customization system. As players progress, they unlock various magical abilities that can be modified to suit specific scenarios, whether engaging bosses or solving puzzles. This emphasis on puzzle-solving distinguishes Mages of Mystralia from other titles in the genre that primarily focus on combat.
The spell creation mechanic offers engaging gameplay.
However, certain shortcomings slightly detract from the overall experience. One notable issue is the restrictive game mechanic that prevents players from moving while casting spells. This limitation can be frustrating when facing numerous enemies. Furthermore, while visually appealing, the boss encounters tend to be simplistic, with easily discernible patterns that reduce them to repetitive “run-and-shoot” sequences.
Despite their visual flair, the boss fights lack complexity.
Overall, Mages of Mystralia remains an enjoyable experience. Its focus on puzzle-solving and the depth of its spell customization system provide ample entertainment. Despite its flaws, a recommendation is warranted, particularly given its attractive price point.
