First Look: Vanguard Exiles (PC)

Okay, so we’re diving back into Early Access. It’s like rooting around in the attic – sometimes you find gems, sometimes just dust. Remember when Early Access was a dumping ground for half-finished concepts? Yeah, tough times. But now? It’s starting to shine. Anyway, today it’s all about Vanguard Exiles.

We’ve got some serious brainpower behind this one, from the folks who brought you Magic: The Gathering. Although there’s a plot twist – no cards! Well, not in the way you’d think. This is more of a hex-fighting game. Imagine if your tabletop games could jump onto a screen. Frankly, if they ever turn this into a boxed game with miniatures, count me in.

Now, before you jump at me with complaints, remember – it’s Early Access. Things are still wobbly. I did have a few gripes, mostly with RNG. No surprise there, right?

The game itself is all about leading mercenaries through trenches. You’re trying to hold rooms for points – reach 80, and you win. But it’s never that simple. Rooms give you stuff – gold, strength. Or sometimes, a bear. Yep, that’s a thing.

Oh, and did I mention it’s an auto-battler? I know, might be a love it or hate it scenario. But here, strategy counts. Do you swarm one spot, or spread your forces? Decisions, decisions. And the automated fighting? Actually smooth, unlike some other lazy titles.

About units – they’re varied. You won’t see them all at once, though. Between rounds, you get to pick new ones randomly, buying them with gold. A freebie’s always there if you’re broke, thank goodness. So don’t panic, it’s not all about cards here.

But let’s talk gray areas. Right now, there’s no story mode. We’ve got factions – dwarves, elves, cultists (creepy, right?) – but not much backstory. Hope that changes. And then, balance. Some battles just feel off. Start bad? Recovering is tough. It can drag, making you want to restart early sometimes.

Unkillable units are another problem – especially armored dwarves. I ended up in stalemates where literally no damage was dealt. Early game needs more counters, I think. Armor’s cool, but it shouldn’t be unbeatable right off the bat.

Overall though, Vanguard Exiles is shaping up nicely. Sure, I’ve got nitpicks, but I’m excited to see where it goes. If you’re into strategy, keep an eye on this one. It could be amazing once it gets polished up a bit more.

Okay, end of rant. For now, it’s all eyes on development. And yeah, I played this with an Early Access copy from the publisher. So stay tuned.