Torment: Tides of Numenera Impressions

The folks at RPGWatch have published a short first impressions piece for Torment: Tides of Numenera, based on the current beta build that is available to all Kickstarter backers of the title. They have generally positive impressions, though they criticize the opening sequence and the current state of the combat. An excerpt:

The ‘look’ of the game is very reminiscent of PS:T from the architecture to the camera view; I almost felt at home. The atmosphere also has been captured quite effectively, at least in the opening area of the Sagus Cliffs. Each of the many maps is made for exploration and this is an aspect to be enjoyed; there is something interesting to discover on all parts of every map; there’s very little ’empty’ space and almost all the maps are crowded with people. While some of these people are there merely to decorate the scenery, most will have a detailed conversation with you and many will offer a quest. Talk to everyone, some of them more than once.

The opening sequence/tutorial/character creation segment of the game remains a ‘work in progress’ and was at times somewhat confusing, as there are currently few explanations available for all the terms being used. Hopefully, when the full game is released, there will at least be some ‘tool-tips’ to help and guide players unfamiliar with the Numenera universe. At least once you reach the end of the opening sequence you have the opportunity to ‘respec’ your character, but it still would be beneficial to have more detailed explanations available. Oh, for a good, old fashioned heavy game manual.