Those Who Rule

Release Date: January 27, 2025

RPG, fantasy, turn-based, tactics, indie games, singleplayer

90%

Steam

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A tactical RPG with a turn-based combat system. In Those Who Rule we are taken to a fantasy realm on the brink of a large scale conflict. We can lead a team of characters from various classes (the game allows to modify them). The story is heavy on choices - they can shape the course of the game and the ending.

Story
Gameplay
Graphics

Those Who Rule is a tactical RPG, set in a world on the brink of destruction. The development of this game was done by an independent developer - Eldin Turulja.

Story

Those Who Rule transports us to a fantasy land, over which the specter of a conflict threatening its existence looms. During the game, we lead a group of characters caught in a web of betrayal. It is up to us whether the protagonists will manage to unravel the conspiracy that is the source of all the chaos, or on the contrary - they will allow themselves to be drawn into it.

Learning and shaping the story

In Those Who Rule we watch the action from a bird's eye view. During the gameplay, we engage in conversations with the inhabitants and gradually discover the next secrets of the world. Besides, over time we discover additional plot threads, and we make decisions that affect the course of the story and its ending. The choices we make are often not morally unambiguous.

Combat system

As we progress, we recruit characters who join our team. This is important, because combat is one of the main elements of game. The battles take place in a turn-based mode, on arenas covered with a grid of hexagonal fields. Success on the battlefield is determined by both skillful juggling of character abilities and the placement of units.

Team and character development

Individual heroes and heroines represent different classes and possess individual sets of abilities. Interestingly, character development system implemented in the game allows for changing the professions of individual team members. We also improve the combat potential of the unit by using increasingly better equipment (which we can produce ourselves).

Graphics

The graphic design of Those Who Rule combines cartoon aesthetics with low poly style. Character models and environmental elements are based on a small number of clearly visible polygons and are "drawn" with a thick, comic-like line. The portraits, on the other hand, look as if they were hand-drawn.

Videos and Screens

[1:04] Those Who Rule - Trailer #1

90%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Very Positive (382)

STEAM

User Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Engaging Tactical Combat: Players appreciate the depth and accessibility of the turn-based combat, which combines strategic positioning and unique class abilities. The introduction of a hex grid and zone of control mechanics adds a fresh twist to the gameplay.
Variety of Classes and Customization: The game offers a wide range of classes that can be upgraded, allowing for diverse character builds and strategies. Many players enjoy experimenting with different class combinations and weapon perks.
Strong Story and Character Development: The narrative is described as gripping, with well-developed characters and meaningful choices that impact the storyline. The writing is noted to be mature and engaging.
Active Developer Support: The developer is highly responsive to community feedback, frequently releasing patches and updates to address bugs and implement quality-of-life improvements.
Lengthy Campaign: Many users report that the campaign is substantial, taking around 40 hours to complete, which provides good value for the price.

The main cons of the game

Bugs and Stability Issues: Several users experienced crashes, soft locks, and other bugs, particularly during the initial launch period. While many of these issues have been addressed, some remain.
Lack of Mid-Battle Save Options: Players expressed frustration over the inability to save mid-mission, as losing key characters can lead to having to restart lengthy battles.
Unbalanced Class Mechanics: Some classes are perceived as significantly stronger than others, leading to gameplay imbalances. Additionally, there are no options to respec characters.
Rushed Endgame Content: The final chapters of the game are criticized for feeling less engaging and lacking the side objectives and character interactions present in earlier chapters.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

Voice Acting: Many players noted the absence of voice acting, which could enhance immersion and character development.
More Quality of Life Features: Suggestions include a restart battle option from within the mission, better UI navigation, and the ability to compare items easily.
Additional Side Quests or Content: Users expressed a desire for more side content and character interactions, especially in the later stages of the game.
Mod Support: Some players are hopeful for future modding capabilities to extend the game's longevity and customization options.

Summary

Overall, "Those Who Rule" is viewed positively by players who enjoy tactical RPGs, particularly those reminiscent of the Fire Emblem series, despite some technical and design shortcomings.

Summary generated on: February 24, 2025