Stoneshard is a tough-as-nails medieval RPG that’s been in early access since 2020 and has seen some big changes as of December 2024. After spending a good amount of time with it, I’ve come away impressed by its ambition, but also frustrated by some of its rough edges. If you’re looking for a hardcore challenge, this might be up your alley, but be prepared for a real test of patience.
Stoneshard throws you into a grim world where survival is everything. The combat is turn-based and brutally unforgiving. Every fight is a tense affair, and even small mistakes can lead to serious injuries or death. This constant threat keeps you on your toes, but it can also feel punishing, especially early on. Some encounters feel less about strategy and more about luck, which can be frustrating.
The “Rags to Riches” update added some much-needed depth to the survival mechanics. Crafting, cooking, and a caravan system now let you build a mobile base and better prepare for the dangers ahead. These additions are welcome and add to the overall experience. The injury system is also noteworthy, forcing you to manage wounds and ailments carefully. It’s a cool idea, but the harsh combat sometimes makes it feel overwhelming.
The story, while still incomplete, is intriguing. You play as a mercenary caught up in a dark tale of betrayal and revenge. The narrative is told through notes, books, and environmental details, creating a strong sense of atmosphere. Visually, the pixel art is excellent, creating a dark and immersive world. The sound design also adds to the tension, especially in dungeons.
While Stoneshard has improved over time, it still has some issues. The combat can feel too reliant on random chance, making some encounters feel unfair. The skill tree, while large, sometimes pushes you towards specific builds instead of allowing for real experimentation. The user interface (UI) could also use some work. It’s functional, but it could be more user-friendly, especially during combat.
Stoneshard shares some similarities with games like Darkest Dungeon and Valheim. It has the same high-stakes decisions as Darkest Dungeon but lacks its polish. The progression and exploration, especially with the caravan, are reminiscent of Valheim, but Stoneshard is far more punishing.
Stoneshard: Stoneshard is a challenging and atmospheric RPG with some interesting ideas. The deep survival mechanics and dark world are appealing, but the brutal difficulty and reliance on random chance can be frustrating. If you’re looking for a hardcore challenge and don’t mind a steep learning curve, Stoneshard might be worth checking out. But if you prefer a more balanced or forgiving experience, you might want to look elsewhere. – Tom Henry
Pros:
- Deep survival mechanics
- Immersive world and great pixel art
- Meaningful updates
Cons:
- Brutal and often unfair difficulty
- Too much reliance on random chance
- Unpolished UI
