Echoes of Mystralia is an action roguelike that fits neatly into the Hades-adjacent space so many games aim for these days. It has a similar camera angle, a large cast of characters and the same kind of magical atmosphere. Its characters and interpersonal relationships may not be quite as compelling, but the combat is incredibly enjoyable.
Rather than relying on conventional weapons, you choose two of 16 spell variations for each run. These range from basic, fire-infused punches to a water shuriken that spins in place before being summoned back to you. Although there are only four core spell types, each has four distinct variations, creating plenty of possible combinations.
As you progress, you’ll also unlock modifiers and triggers that transform how your spells behave. You can make an attack fire forwards and backwards simultaneously, duplicate it in a particular direction or add elemental effects that allow it to burn enemies or bounce between targets. More options become available over time, letting you create some incredibly powerful combinations.
You’ll need that power, too, because Echoes of Mystralia can be tough. Learning the behaviour of its enemies and bosses is essential, especially when late-game foes can end a run in an instant. Thankfully, each attempt helps you grow stronger through permanent upgrades, including stat boosts, new ability modifiers and additional room options.
There’s plenty to do here and, while the story isn’t quite as moving as Hades, it still has a lot of heart. Its central ideas explore memories and the ways they can both make and break us. The combat is the real highlight, though, and watching a simple spell evolve into something truly monstrous never gets old.
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