Tactics Quest: Erynari is a single-player turn-based tactical RPG set in a world where a criminal group has taken over the government. Players follow a mismatched group of characters including a recently unemployed business analyst, a ghost, a detective, a drug-addled CEO, and a former cop turned priest as they work to challenge the corrupted regime.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on story progression through narrative sequences and tactical battles. The party travels into artificial worlds known as Rifts, where combat occurs on maps populated by enemies such as government forces, dragons, giant insects, and robots. Battles emphasize positioning and the use of unusual abilities to gain advantages. Examples include items or effects like a mushroom that boosts critical hit rate or the ability to summon a ghost ally. These mechanics stand apart from standard tactical RPG systems by introducing bizarre, situational tools that reward creative application during encounters. The game supports Xbox controllers from the start and includes Steam achievements for tracking progress through the available content.
Game Modes
Content is delivered through sequential Story Arcs. The initial Early Access release focuses on Story Arc 1, which provides roughly 40 to 60 minutes of combined cutscenes, exploration elements, and battles. There are no separate multiplayer modes or additional named game modes at launch. Future updates are planned to expand the number of Story Arcs, with the full version intended to include world travel, character-specific move unlocks via a badge system, shops, training centers, and summoning features. Players engage with the single-player campaign structure exclusively in the current build.
Story and Setting
The narrative begins with a government overtaken by criminals, leading to disappearances in small towns while official crime statistics appear improved. This setup draws the central cast into efforts against the regime led by Adrian Darius. Rifts serve as the primary battlegrounds and appear tied to the leader's inventions, raising questions about their true purpose that unfold across the arcs. The tone starts with lighthearted, ham-fisted attempts at rebellion before shifting toward deeper psychological elements as the story progresses.
Current State and Development
Tactics Quest: Erynari enters Early Access on September 29, 2026, with the first arc available immediately. The developer plans to release additional Story Arcs over approximately two years, aiming for a total of six to ten arcs in the complete edition. Price adjustments are expected as more content arrives. Controller support and achievements are included in the initial version, and community feedback through forums and support channels will guide refinements to tactics, quality-of-life features, and new modes.
Is It Worth Playing?
Players interested in turn-based tactical RPGs with unconventional mechanics and a character-driven story may find value in the Early Access release, particularly those willing to engage with a short initial experience that expands over time. The current build offers a focused introduction to the Rifts combat system and the party's dysfunctional dynamics without additional modes or extensive world features. Those seeking a complete narrative or deeper progression systems should consider waiting for further Story Arcs, as the full vision includes expanded travel and customization options. The game targets fans of strategy RPGs who appreciate experimental battle tools over traditional setups.
