Why knock on a coffin lid, is someone going to answer?
Knock on the Coffin Lid, aside from having a long title is a really similar game to others in the genre. This rogue-like deckbuilding game is a lot like Slay the Spire even Monster Train, but Knock on the Coffin Lid manages to stand out from these due to its included narrative which isn’t something that is commonly seen in these games.
In Knock on the Coffin Lid players will fill the shows of a recently resurrected warrior who is brought back to life in a world that is steeped in a dark and grim fantasy. Much like Hades players will experience the story progression even when they fail a run and end up dead. The game has lots of branching paths that include allies and of course enemies that can lend itself to a lot of replay ability even after players finish the main campaign. Even though the storytelling was interesting, there are a few issues; the first of which is the pacing feels off at times. In KotCL players won’t find all the deep lore and world building that is typically found in bigger RPGs.
MSRP: $24.99
Platforms: Xbox (reviewed), PlayStation, PC
Price I’d Pay: $24.99
Visually speaking though KotCL really does a fantastic job of displaying the dark fantasy vibes. Animations are stiff just like in Slay the Spire and other deckbuilding games, but it does the job of showcases the fighting. Characters all sport a really good level of detail, and this carries over to the backgrounds through each new level. Graphically the game recalls a darker version of Hades and the inclusion of the voices NPC’s is awesome to help immerse the player in the game’s world.
Combat in Knock on the Coffin Lid is a turn-based affair and while it certainly was inspired by the likes of Monster Train and Slay the Spire, the developers at RedBoon have added an equipment system which allows for players to use equipment in addition to their deck of cards. These equipment pieces will grant passives and status effects that can provide big buffs or debuffs; this helps to add a layer of strategy to the game that isn’t usually seen in deckbuilders. Players will be able to choose between multiple characters from which to being each run. Each of these characters felt distinct to play as, which is nice but be warned the unlock process is extremely grindy and will take a while to unlock them all.
Each of the characters has their own unique decks and abilities, this variety is nice and helps to keep this fresh. Each of the heroes offer different playstyles from a warrior type who uses force to a rogue type that uses poisons and quick attacks. As players progress, they will find new cards and weapons which can culminate in some killer synergies between the cards and equipment. As cool as this is though, it was extremely overwhelming in the early hours. Knock on the Coffin Lid throws a lot at players and with a bit of a steep learning curve; the tutorial actually does a decent job of helping with the basics but there is a LOT it won’t explain that players will end up finding through trial-and-error.
Ultimately, Knock on the Coffin Lid is a solid rogue-like deckbuilding game with some nice additions and twist from the norm. The art style and audio shine throughout the game and there are lots of great deck possibilities. However, it’s held back by the steep learning curve, difficulty and the overly grindy nature that is required to acquire the many unlockable. Fans of the genre will find lots to enjoy here though, there is plenty of room for replay ability just be prepared to grind for new rewards.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
