First things first, The Rangers in the South is a visually stunning game that perfectly masters the 2.5 HD look that we have seen with recent RPG remasters. Seriously, just buy this game (it’s only £3.39) and admire it. Even if you don’t end up doing anything else, it’ll be worth every penny. That said, you might as well give it a try while you’re at it—you’re in for a real treat.
In The Rangers in the South you take control of a random villager – choosing from a fighter, ranger, or mage starting build – and set out into the world to find your path. The game provides only minimal guidance before leaving you to explore and experiment on your own. This lack of hand-holding might feel unusual at first, but it adds to the sense of freedom and discovery. As a result, the adventure feels genuinely epic.
What starts as a simple task of slaying goblins gradually transforms into a much grander journey. Before long, you’ll find yourself battling through richly varied biomes, each with its own challenges, and facing off against fearsome demon lords. This progression from humble beginnings to heroic feats makes every victory feel earned and incredibly satisfying.
As you progress, chances are you’ll face defeat—but don’t worry! When one character falls, someone else will step up to take their place, and you’ll continue the journey through their eyes. It’s a clever and amusing system that keeps the adventure moving forward while also explaining the game’s roguelike mechanics. As you battle your way through the hordes, you’ll also have the opportunity to level up. Each level grants you a passive upgrade—such as increasing your attack power—and a new skill. These skills come in a variety of forms, from passive effects like firing a random arrow every few seconds, to activatable abilities like homing magical missiles. Some skills even reshape the way you play, encouraging you to lean into specific builds and strategies.
All in all, Rangers in the South is a stunning and highly entertaining roguelike that delivers far more value than its modest price tag suggests and should be a must-have in the gaming libraries of any roguelike aficionado.
