There are certain games out there that are almost universally played, and if you claim otherwise, I’d probably question your honesty. We’ve all indulged in a round or two of match-three games, card flips, and other such straightforward mechanics. While these can be loads of fun, developers tread a fine line when they use these popular elements to craft new games. Take the match-three craze, for example. There was this game called Jewel Quest which not only garnered a few sequels but played wonderfully. While there were similar games before it, Jewel Quest is the one that stands out for me. I absolutely relished playing through each installment. But soon, everyone and their dog was churning out match-three clones, which is a textbook case of how oversaturation can stifle innovation in the gaming world. So, what does all this have to do with the game we’re discussing today? It essentially comes down to the same principle. However, the developers of this game seem to have taken the simple pairs mechanic and spun it into something intriguingly fresh. I’m hopeful that people are willing to explore what they have on offer. The game in question today is called Pairs and Perils, and it looks like it could really be worth delving into.
Pairs and Perils is the brainchild of Little Horror Studios, with Rogue Duck Interactive as the producer, now available on Steam for PC. This game takes a roguelike approach that leans more on your memory than quick reflexes. That alone sets it apart in the roguelike genre, where brainpower is often secondary. This unique twist certainly has my attention.
In Pairs and Perils, the concept is pretty straightforward: remember the positions of heroes and weapons to pair them for combined powers. But, as with any good game, expect the unexpected to spice things up.
Embarking on Pairs and Perils means embarking on a grand adventure brimming with heroic feats and lurking traps. Mistakenly mismatching cards pulls you closer to peril. Enemies bring their own set of challenges, with attack timers that increase the stakes with each misstep. Their abilities range from pilfering your hard-earned loot to summoning a skeletal army. They’re not merely obstacles but rather strategic tests designed to stretch your skills.
In the world of Pairs and Perils, your intellect will only take you part of the way. Discerning the ideal card combinations and selecting optimal upgrades from the in-game shop is crucial. There’s also the constant need to outwit those pesky beings eager to swipe your prized cards.
Being a roguelike, Pairs and Perils ensures that each game run is unique, with fresh heroes, foes, and items every time. This approach keeps the game exciting and full of potential surprises. True to the roguelike style, the difficulty level ramps up as you progress, making each successful adventure even more challenging. Beware: formidable bosses are lurking in the deep, waiting for their chance to thwart your journey.
Pairs and Perils seems tailored for someone like me. It takes familiar mechanics and infuses them with creativity and novelty. Being an avid fan of roguelikes only heightens my excitement to dive into this experience. You can check out Pairs and Perils on Steam now, and I’m certain I’ll have more insights to share about this game in the future.
