Slay the Spire (2019)

Game Description:
In "Slay the Spire," players embark on a strategic journey to conquer a mysterious, ever-changing tower. Combining elements of card games and roguelikes, the game challenges players to craft a unique deck from hundreds of cards, each offering distinct abilities and strategies. As they ascend the spire, players encounter bizarre creatures and formidable bosses, requiring tactical decisions and adaptability. Along the way, they discover powerful relics that enhance their abilities and alter gameplay dynamics. With each run being different, players must carefully manage their resources and make strategic choices to overcome the spire's challenges. Released in 2019, "Slay the Spire" offers a compelling blend of strategy, risk, and reward, ensuring a fresh experience with every playthrough.
Game Details
Platforms:
PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One
Genres:
Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Adventure, Indie, Card & Board Game
Game Mode(s):
Player Perspective(s):
Developer:
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Publisher:
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Slay the Spire is rated E10+ for Everyone 10+ by the ESRB with Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, and Tobacco Reference. This is a strategy game in which players engage in card-based battles as they navigate levels filled with monsters (e.g., lizard-like creatures, ghost-like orbs). Players select attack/defense moves from their cards as on-screen characters perform each action. Damage is indicated by hit points and depleting health meters. Some card images depict stylized drips or splashes of blood. A relic image is labeled Peace Pipe; blue smoke emits from an image with the word “Toke” underneath.
Content Warnings:
Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, Tobacco Reference
Interactive Elements:
In-Game Purchases:
Parental Notes
The sentiment among parents is very positive about Slay the Spire for older children. The game contains mild fantasy violence, with players using cards to battle various creatures. The violence is not graphic, and damage is shown through hit points and health meters. Some card images include stylized blood, but it is not excessive. There is no profanity, but there is a reference to tobacco with a relic labeled Peace Pipe, which emits blue smoke. Parents generally find the game suitable for children 10 and older, appreciating its strategic elements and lack of strong language or intense violence.
Positive Notes About The Game From ParentsParents appreciate Slay the Spire for its emphasis on strategic thinking and problem-solving. The game encourages players to plan and adapt their strategies, fostering critical thinking skills. Its roguelike elements ensure a fresh experience with each playthrough, keeping players engaged and challenged.
Why Your Kid Might Like Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire offers a unique blend of strategy and unpredictability that keeps teens engaged. The game's deck-building mechanics allow players to experiment with different card combinations, fostering creativity and strategic thinking. Each run through the spire is different, providing a fresh challenge every time, which appeals to those who enjoy testing their skills and adapting to new situations. The thrill of discovering powerful relics and crafting a winning strategy makes each playthrough exciting and rewarding.
Teens appreciate the game's balance of risk and reward, as it encourages them to make tactical decisions that can lead to victory or defeat. The roguelike elements mean that failure is part of the learning process, teaching resilience and perseverance. The quirky art style and intriguing enemies add to the game's charm, making it a fun and engaging experience. With its combination of strategy, challenge, and replayability, Slay the Spire is a game that many teens find themselves returning to time and again.