The deck-building genre has been exploding over the past few years, with recent indies likeBalatroreminding audiences of the ruthlessly addictive power of these sorts of games. But for many, it seems like just yesterday thatInscryption, Daniel Mullins Games' unsettling and unforgettable horror masterpiece, was defining the deck-building space, living rent-free in the heads of countless players. It may have released three years ago, butInscryptionis worth playing today just as much as it was back then.
Inscryptionis a roguelike game, but even those without much fondness for this oft-utilized structure may find a lot to like in it. Though it leverages the repetition, trial-and-error, and randomization mechanics that are central to the roguelike formula, it also has an exceedingly well-crafted story and atmosphere, which is supported by unparalleled art and audio design, making it a treat to experience. This is to say nothing of its actual gameplay, which is consistently surprising and polished to a brilliant shine, making it a perfect match for players seeking a strategic card game that’s easy to learn but hard to master. Having said all that, some may have skippedInscryptionback in 2021, but that’s alright; it’s more accessible now than ever before.
Inscryption Is Begging To Be Played in 2024
Inscryption Still Holds Up
While it certainly has a lot in common with other deck-building games,Inscryptionmanages to carve out a unique identity for itself, not feeling derivative ofgames likeSlay the Spiredespite some clear tonal and mechanical similarities. It would take far too long to outline every specific way thatInscryptionis so special, but its strongest points can be narrowed down to three central traits:
The power ofInscryption’s eerie presentation is perhaps the most immediately apparent of these three strengths. Indeed, it should be obvious after just a few minutes of playing thatInscryption’s unique blend of a simple, nostalgic visual identity, uncomfortably vague dialog from the main antagonist, and moments of metanarrative storytelling contribute to an uncanny story. Crucially,Inscryption’s story takes place in a single room, with the central card game being part of the story itself, furthering the cerebral tone of the plot.
The gameplay ofInscryptionrewards players who take the time to understand its intricacies. Like many card games, it can be deceptively deep, with a lot of wiggle room for experimentation. It is remarkably gratifying to learn the ins-and-outs of each card, buff, or item, optimizing future builds. As for theunpredictable nature ofInscryption’s main campaign, that’s something that players will have to uncover themselves, but suffice to say that the game goes in directions that are almost impossible to guess, adding to its charm and mystique.
With a Game Pass and PlayStation Plus Release, Inscryption Is More Accessible Than Ever
Recently,Inscryptionlanded on Xbox Game Pass, following its inclusion on the Extra and Premium tiers of PS Plus back in 2023. Though it’s a great game, it’s not hard to imagineInscryption’s foreboding tone, ostensibly obtuse card-based gameplay, and nebulous narrative intimidating some players, especially those with limited experience with the deck-building or digital card genres. But now that it’s available on the two leading on-demand gaming services, the barrier to entry is considerably lower, making it an easy pick for anyone looking for something fresh to play this fall.
Inscryptionisn’t very technically demanding—even low-spec PCs can run it fairly smoothly.
Inscryption
WHERE TO PLAY
From the creator of Pony Island and The Hex comes the latest mind-melting, self-destructing love letter to video games.Inscryption is an inky black card-based odyssey that blends the deckbuilding roguelike, escape-room style puzzles, and psychological horror into a blood-laced smoothie. Darker still are the secrets inscrybed upon the cards…In Inscryption you will…Acquire a deck of woodland creature cards by draft, surgery, and self-mutilation.Unlock the secrets lurking behind the walls of Leshy’s cabin.Embark on an unexpected and deeply disturbing odyssey.
