First Look: Vanguard Exiles (PC)

Alright, let’s dive into this and make it feel like someone just poured their brain onto the page after way too much coffee. Here we go:

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So, here I am again, knee-deep in the glorious chaos of Early Access. Yeah, I know, it used to be a dumpster fire of half-baked ideas. Like, seriously, you’d pay for a promise and end up with a never-to-be-finished game. But hey, things change, and now we’ve got some gems in there. Speaking of gems — has anyone seen Vanguard Exiles? That’s what we’re talking about today, and I’m pretty pumped. Not gonna lie.

Oh, and fun fact: this one’s coming from a Magic: The Gathering developer. Crazy, right? You’d expect cards flying everywhere, but nope, it’s a hex-based fighter. Picture tabletop vibes… and, honestly, I wouldn’t be shocked to see a deluxe edition with pricey miniatures someday. I’d definitely grab one. Just saying.

Let’s address the elephant in the room — Early Access means rough edges. Vanguard Exiles ain’t perfect (yet?), but it shouldn’t be. So, if I moan about RNG or something, remember, it’s just me blabbing. Things change, evolve. That’s kinda cool, don’t you think?

Now, picture this: You’re leading mercenaries through a trench system, battling in rounds, fighting for control of rooms. Some rooms give gold, others make you tougher, or you might stumble into a grizzly bear. Yep. A bear. Each room is like a little gamble — worth it or not? Up to you.

Anyway — tangents aside — it’s an auto-battler. I know, those words might make some of you cringe. But hear me out! Strategy is the real MVP here. Plopping units willy-nilly is a no-go unless you like losing. Balance is key, and boy, does this game keep you on your toes. Sure, some battles play themselves, but isn’t that part of the charm?

Cards are a thing, though not in the way you expect. They’re more about deployment, like setting up chess pieces, not just playing Solitaire. Weird but works.

So, what’s the catch? Story gaps. We need context! We’ve got dwarves, elves, and cultists, but why are they here? Why are they fighting? Hopefully, we’ll know soon. Otherwise, it’s just “cool units doing cool things,” which is fun, but c’mon, give me lore!

Balance tweaks are needed, though. Sometimes starts are rocky, and getting back on top feels like swimming in syrup. Maybe I suck, or it’s a game flaw. Let’s hope for smooth sailing soon?

Speaking of gripes, unkillable dwarves drive me nuts. Can’t break their armor. If I can’t handle this early on, is it my fault? Overpowered units can turn a game into a drag real quick. Borrowed this from Monopoly, maybe?

Complaints aside, Vanguard Exiles is shaping up nicely. Strategy fans should keep it on their radar. Fingers crossed for more polish and depth. And hey, if things stay on course, it’s gonna be a thing of beauty.

Preview disclaimer: Early Access copy was courtesy of the publisher.

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Alright, that was a wild ride. Hope it feels real and raw enough for you!