Rollers of the Realm Reviews
Honestly a game like this deserves a bit of praise. It set out with a goal many didn't even know existed, struggled uphill against unknown hurdles, and still managed to come out great. While the story may be short it never feels weary or too skimpy, while the gameplay can feel unfair at times it is also fun, and the game is simply fun on the whole, achieving the notable 'one more turn' feeling for most of the levels. It probably won't get people gushing over it, but there is no denying that it is well made and above average as well.
While the game lacks in the RPG category thanks to a bare-bones story and horrendous voice acting, the pinball portion more than makes up for it with its fantastic gameplay and addicting level designs.
A wholly appreciated experiment that does not quite balance both genres, but definitely worth a look with players who are 70 percent pinball fans, 30% RPG.
'Rollers of the Realm' nearly does for pinball what 'Puzzle Quest' did for the match-three genre. It competently takes an existing medium and merges it with roleplaying elements to create something that hasn't been done before, which is unusual in gaming. A few design problems keep it from greatness, like a very cold, withholding system of progression. That doesn't stop it from being an enjoyable experience and something worth trying for any pinball or RPG fan.
Rather than combining the two genres into a perfect blend, Phantom Compass has diluted both before mixing them conservatively. Rollers of the Realm is more gin and tonic than anything else: refreshing, quite enjoyable for the short time it lasts, yet some will find it's not to their tastes. It may not be a perfect amalgamation of Pinball FX 2 and Dragon Age, but RotR is still an above average game with a unique concept and good value for money.
It's not a game for everyone; to get the most from this game, you already have to be a pinball fan…and I don't know many pinball fans. Still, for only $9.99 at release, I'd say it's worth a shot.