[REVIEW] Knights of Pen & Paper
If you’re like me, you may enjoy playing video games but can’t make a whole lot of time for them. Since my schedule doesn’t allow for me to get involved in blockbuster A-list role-playing games like Skyrim anymore, I was looking for a casual game to pass the time on my phone for whenever I had a spare moment. I discovered Knights of Pen & Paper on iOS randomly a few weeks ago and downloaded it on a whim. If you’re looking for a light RPG that delivers on the go, then look no further.
Knights of Pen & Paper is a pretty standard RPG with an interesting twist - you are simultaneously playing as a group of Dungeons & Dragons players and the adventures they create (how meta). This game within a game lends itself to the game’s nerdy humor, with locations such as “Wizards of the East Coast” and bosses spouting out “WELCOME TO DIE.”
Character Creation
The game works similar to other RPG’s. You start by creating your party. The different people at the table function as the traditional “Race” category in RPGs, offering different starting bonuses. After you choose each person’s class, you start your adventure. The Dungeon Master in the game acts as the main menu, allowing you to change equipment, travel, and start quests.
Experience and leveling works simply. You gain one point each level to put one of four class specific skills. While the mechanics of the battle system are fairly simple, this works in the game’s favor, allowing for casual players to get into it without difficulty. Similarly, you can focus on creating the best class combinations to add more depth to the game.
The turn-based battle mechanics of the game reflect this simplicity, allowing for casual players to breeze through the game at a leisurely pace while also offering more difficult challenges with higher level monsters in more dangerous areas.
Battle
The game’s humor is one of its strong points. It’s rife with references to other games and pop culture and its retro aesthetic is charming (if a bit overplayed at this point) and its best selling point. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is great considering its platform. It’s easy to understand the world of “Pen & Paper” and to cater your quests to your own tastes and schedule.
The World Map
All in all, at the price point of $1.99, it’s a pretty easy buy to make. I’d highly recommend it if you need a time waster on the subway with a little more depth than flinging birds at pigs.
I’ve included the download links and launch trailer below for your convenience:
Knights of Pen & Paper on iTunes
Knights of Pen & Paper on Google Play