Reverse Crawl (v1.0.0.3)

Heroes are the invaders in this compact tactical RPG, while you take command of the creatures usually waiting at the end of the corridor. Reverse Crawl flips the familiar dungeon-crawling fantasy on its head by casting you as the force defending an evil lair from increasingly troublesome adventurers. The tone is mischievous rather than grim, with a playful villainous perspective and the distinctive hand-drawn look associated with solo developer Nerdook. It is a campaign built around the pleasure of turning a party of monsters into a clever, adaptable fighting force.

Combat unfolds in turn-based encounters where positioning, unit abilities, and the composition of your squad matter more than brute strength. You recruit and lead different minions, then use their traits and skills to counter the heroes pushing through your dungeon. Victories unlock additional monsters, powers, and upgrades, but campaign choices also shape what tools become available, encouraging players to adjust their strategy rather than rely on one fixed build. The campaign structure changes from run to run, and branching decisions steer both the story and your growing arsenal toward different outcomes.

Its strongest idea is simple: nearly every RPG teaches players to raid a dungeon, while Reverse Crawl asks what happens when the dungeon fights back. Randomized campaign elements and unlockable options give repeat playthroughs value, especially for players who enjoy experimenting with unusual party combinations and responding to unexpected situations. The presentation is modest compared with large-scale tactical RPGs, but the focused mechanics and expressive cartoon art give it plenty of character. Fans of turn-based strategy games such as Into the Breach, or anyone who enjoys RPG progression with a roguelite sense of variety, should find a lot to like; newcomers can also settle in comfortably thanks to its approachable, small-scale battles.