This review was originally written in 2021. It is reproduced here with no edits. Note that the version reviewed at the time was in an early preview state, so no score has been given.

PROS:

• Clever control system that won’t make you miss a gamepad
• Clean graphics
• Great potential to build from

CONS:

• No sound in this beta version
• The front end menu system is not set up yet
• Graphics could use more detail

Apple App Store (not available as of January 12, 2023; review via TestFlight) | Google Play

Although still in early access and presently only available via the TestFlight app, which allows you to test beta software on iOS-based devices, version 3.0 of Elecular’s The Hunt For Epic Treasure is worth an early look.

The basic setup is simple. You’re a viking out to wreak havoc against your dangerous, loot hoarding, foes. 

Because it’s a beta, there are two big issues to deal with right off the bat. The first, is that the menu system is not yet working. When you start the game, you’re immediately thrust into action. For the second, there’s no sound, so you don’t get any epic background music or weapon impacts that would otherwise heighten the intensity.

What you do get in this early version of the game is graphically clean, arena-based combat. You move and dodge by swiping in the appropriate direction. You attack by tapping on the screen. This control system works beautifully with the iPhone and iPad’s touchscreen and rivals the type of satisfying control you typically only get with a good gamepad.

In addition to basic moves, dodges, and melee attacks, you can also tap icons for special attacks. For instance, tap on the axe icon and aim in the appropriate direction to hurl an axe at your enemy.

A key element with this type of game is how smart the artificial intelligence is when it comes to enemy targeting. There’s nothing worse than being attacked by multiple enemies and then having the game face you in the wrong direction. Fortunately, The Hunt For Epic Treasure‘s enemy selection algorithm is spot-on and will almost always face you in the direction of the most pressing attack. This automation cuts down on the need for manual movement, allowing your swipes to be reserved for dodges, dashes, and other evasive maneuvers rather than trying to target the next enemy.

Gameplay is smooth and satisfying even in its current state. It’s clear that there’s an excellent core game engine here to continue to build around. For the public release of this game, it would be nice to see more detail in the graphics, a nice (and functional) front end menu system, and full game sounds, including an epic soundtrack. It would also be nice to see the character progression, crafting options, and treasure system to become more fully realized. As it stands, you can upgrade your warrior in a relatively limited manner every 10 rounds.

As it stands, Elecular has proven they can develop a compelling, competent weapons-based arena combat system. It remains to be seen how well the developers can flesh out the rest of the game to become a fully realized release. If they succeed, The Hunt For Epic Treasure should prove extremely popular.

Score: NA (out of 5)