Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Indie, Pinball, Puzzle, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Atlus USA
- Publishers: Arc System Works, Phantom Compass
Rollers of the Realm: A Unique Blend of Pinball and RPG
Rollers of the Realm is a unique and innovative game that blends the frantic physics of classic arcade pinball with the character-driven adventure of fantasy role-playing games. Players bounce, spin, and battle their way through scenes of an epic storyline with a band of medieval misfits tasked with reclaiming the world from dark and ancient magic.
The game was developed by Pinball Brothers, a small independent studio founded by brothers Colin and Ryan Northway. The brothers were inspired to create Rollers of the Realm after playing a pinball machine at a local arcade. They were struck by the game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, and they began to wonder what it would be like to combine pinball with other genres, such as RPGs.
After two years of development, Rollers of the Realm was released in 2014 to critical acclaim. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and engaging story. It was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Gameplay
Rollers of the Realm is played on a pinball machine with a fantasy setting. The player controls a pinball that represents one of the game’s four characters: Aella the elf, Finn the human, Grug the orc, or Liana the gnome.
The player’s goal is to progress through the game’s story by completing a series of pinball challenges. These challenges can include defeating enemies, collecting items, and solving puzzles. The player can use the pinball’s flippers to bounce, spin, and shoot the pinball around the playfield.
As the player progresses through the game, they will level up their characters and unlock new abilities. These abilities can be used to improve the pinball’s performance or to give the player an advantage in combat.
Characters
The four playable characters in Rollers of the Realm are each unique in their own way. Aella the elf is a skilled archer with a quick wit. Finn the human is a brave warrior with a strong sense of justice. Grug the orc is a powerful brute with a heart of gold. Liana the gnome is a cunning rogue with a knack for getting into trouble.
The player can switch between characters at any time during the game. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, so the player must choose the right character for the job.
Story
The story of Rollers of the Realm is set in a medieval fantasy world that is being threatened by an ancient evil. The player’s characters must band together to defeat this evil and save the world.
The story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The cutscenes are beautifully animated and the dialogue is well-written and engaging. The story is full of humor, heart, and adventure.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Rollers of the Realm are colorful and vibrant. The game’s world is full of detail and the characters are all well-designed. The sound effects are also top-notch, and the music is catchy and memorable.
Overall
Rollers of the Realm is a unique and innovative game that combines the best elements of pinball and RPGs. The game’s frantic physics, charming characters, and engaging story make it a must-play for fans of both genres.
Score: 8.5/10
Pros:
- Innovative gameplay
- Charming characters
- Engaging story
- Beautiful graphics and sound
Cons:
- Can be difficult at times
- Some levels are more frustrating than fun
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
