If you’re a fan of Dungeons and Dragons, you’ve probably heard of Baldur’s Gate 3. It’s an absolute gem within the realm of officially licensed DnD games, but even beyond that, it ranks as one of the top cooperative games out there. However, the very elements that make it so captivating—its vastness and limitless options—can also be intimidating to some players. Enter Sunderfolk, a project that’s bringing a fresh twist to the table, offering a co-op experience reminiscent of a laid-back DnD game night. What sets it apart is its inventive approach: all you need is your smartphone. After much anticipation, it’s finally available for gamers to dive into.
First, let’s clear up any potential misunderstandings, especially since I mentioned smartphones earlier: this isn’t a mobile game. Sunderfolk, crafted by Secret Door—a team under the guidance of former Blizzard executive Mike Morhaime at Dreamhaven—is actually a turn-based RPG designed for PC and consoles. Your phone? Well, it serves as your controller, inventory, card deck, and even your rulebook. To get started, you simply launch the game on your system, link it to a shared TV or monitor, download the free app, scan the on-screen QR code, and boom—you’re all set. And here’s a bonus: you only need one copy of the game to enjoy it with friends.
Fans of party games might find this method somewhat familiar, akin to experiences from games like Jackbox. However, implementing it in a complex co-op RPG like Sunderfolk is a stroke of genius, without it feeling just like a novelty.
So, what’s the heart of Sunderfolk’s gameplay? The story centers around rebuilding and safeguarding the charming village of Arden, nestled under the life-sustaining yet corrupted Brightstone. This corruption draws unwanted attention to the realm’s denizens.
Players can choose from six classes, each reflecting classic fantasy RPG archetypes. You can be an Arcanist, Bard, Berserker, Pyromancer, Ranger, or Rogue, represented by unique animal avatars—a raven, bat, polar bear, mini-dragon, ram, and a shinobi-style otter, respectively. Together with your team, you’ll dive into turn-based encounters. When your turn comes, you select an action, and then enhance its impact with a card, which might boost your attack or, if things don’t go your way, weaken it.
After successfully completing missions and protecting Arden for another day, you can return to the village. Here, you can chat with the locals, upgrade your gear, and assist in rebuilding this tranquil area.
There are many standout turn-based RPGs out there, and several more on the horizon, but none match Sunderfolk’s couch co-op focus and delivery method. Now’s the time to gather your friends for an adventure.
Ready to embark on this journey? Sunderfolk is available now on Steam for PC gamers, as well as for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.
Interested in more? Check out our recommendations for the best fantasy games and top co-op games.
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