Deep Sky Derelicts - Early Access Watcher -

Disclosure: This game copy was bought by the reviewer.

A scrapper is given the deal of a lifetime: become a citizen in exchange for a derelict ship of myth. He is joined by two other scrappers and blasts off to explore the derelict ships of the region in search of clues, but it isn't that simple. With a decreasing energy gauge to monitor, ruthless robots to fend off and the threat of rival scrappers, the journey to achieving prosperity seems beyond reach.

This portion of my time playing explores the first derelict and shows off the main aspects: preparation, exploring and combat. There are contracts to complete for extra money, a pawn shop to purchase or sell gear, and a doctor to heal any damage taken once the shield is worn down. The economy seems to be even enough at this point, but I can see a few wrong moves pushing me down into the red.

Exploration consists of clicking an unexplored node and searching for loot caches, enemies and the pieces of information needed to reach the fabled derelict. Click a spot, move to it. The only complications are with the energy bar which lowers for each room you move through and slowly depletes during combat. Boosters can be bought or found to increase the energy bar, but if you get to low, you will be forced to hike back to the starting point to return home.

If an enemy should be spotted, the combat portion kicks into action. All moves are confined to cards that are tied to your gear, mods and skills. One card is drawn per turn, or you can select a boost for 10 energy for two more cards. This can be a risky move, but can also turn the tide of a losing fight.

Graphically the game is spectacular. Character portraits, enemy designs, background art and the comic style attack animations all look beautiful, in a gritty sort of way. The simple interface keeps the map layout and battle screen clear while providing plenty of statistical information reserved to the inventory and crew screens. Controls are a little stingy, req..