I normally don’t seek out trading card games, but when Eminence: Xander’s Tales was brought to my attention, something about it got me interested. Was it the cute art style? Was it the classic RPG aesthetic? Was it the concept of an MMORPG in which the battle system isn’t summed up as “watch the action go by and sometimes furiously mash the function keys”? Here, maybe watch the trailer first.
Having grown up on games like Lufia and Ys III, “classic RPG aesthetic” is pretty much a guaranteed winner for me. Cute things help and creative gameplay just kicks the door down. Right now, the game is on Kickstarter—and, is already closing in on 20% funded only a few days after starting. Even the cheapest tier (~$10) includes beta access, which probably helps. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s currently an iPhone exclusive, but there’s also a stretch goal to get it on Android.
If you’re into TCGs, or even if you’re just looking for a cute and fun MMO to play while you’re standing in line, Eminence looks like a good bet. The game will be free to play after release, and the developers have said that they plan to “monetize respectfully”, which is a welcomed change from what we’re used to around here. The least you can do is check out the Kickstarter!
