This week's DEMO is the Switch version of Flamecraft, from developer Monster Couch.
Before i played this demo, i didn't know that the game was already out as a board game. i was drawn to trying it out because i liked how it looked. my only concern was that on it's eShop page the screenshots looked crowded and tough to understand.
I started by checking out the game's tutorial. whilst it's great that it goes into great length and takes things step by step, it took around 35-40 minutes. thankfully, there is an in-game reward for doing it. i am glad i tried it, but i think i would've liked a little more help or reminders in the game itself.
The match i did didn't take too long, around 15 minutes. i didn't win it though. i came second. even though i didn't win, i don't really know how i came second. the game doesn't have a way to explain what happened. i was playing against two bots and i remember a point when both of them got more points than me half way through and the only way i was able to close the gap was by using cards that granted bonuses at the end. i would've liked, on my turn, a helper that could've given me some suggestions or at the end, a helper that explains how well or bad i did and what i could try next time.
Ultimately, i didn't play it wrong. the tutorial was good and i remembered enough of the basics to not finish last. i would certainly recommend players try out the tutorial. if you already have the board game, then this is a well implemented digital alternative that's suitable for situations like travelling on a plane or in a hotel. I would recommend Flamecraft for new players and those with the board game.
