Review of Rogue Waters for PlayStation 5

Tripwire Presents and Ice Code Games have set sail to deliver Rogue Waters, a daring Rated M for Mature adventure that fuses turn-based tactical roguelite RPG elements with the thrill of pirate life, and just a hint of the supernatural. Let’s dive into what makes this game a voyage worth undertaking!

Before you set sail, you’ll need to verify your age to check out the introductory video. This is, after all, a grown-up’s treasure hunt.

The story sweeps you into a world where you become Captain Cutter, a pirate ensnared in a battle of power and vengeance. Just as you stumble upon the elusive treasure in the Temple of the Goddess, things take a supernatural turn. Armed with a mysterious voice in your head and a cursed crystal that cost you an eye, you are now on the run from the treacherous Captain Blackbone—who’d happily have that crystal removed by force. Embarking on your rogue adventure, you must build a new crew, face your foes, and reckon with the changes the world has undergone during your fourteen-year absence.

You have four difficulty settings to choose from: Story, Normal, Hard, and Heroic I. Want a laidback cruise focused more on the narrative? Opt for Story Mode. Looking for a challenge without getting shipwrecked? Normal is your call. Hard and Heroic I raise the stakes with tougher enemies, rewarding extra bonuses in Blueprints and Glass to the brave.

Prepare yourself for numerous skirmishes. These tactical encounters will test your strategic prowess as you guide your crew in combat. Each skirmish is a turn-based battle where out-maneuvering enemies is your key aim. Utilize the environment, like ropes for swift movement, and fear-inducing extra damage to gain victory.

Deploy your team tactically before each battle—decide who stands where and challenge your foes. Combat revolves around a tactical cursor that lets you strategize your unit’s movement and actions. Prepare abilities like bracing for an attack or making a tactical retreat when needed. Your tactics extend to the roguelite-style Region Map, where you chart your course, encountering events, raids, and rival pirate ships along the way.

Sea battles are intense affairs. Manage Command Points to carry out actions like firing cannons, and maneuver your ship strategically by plotting your attacks based on the enemy’s movements. Consider using the Kraken or other mythical sea monsters to turn the tide of battle in your favor!

Pirate’s Cove is your sanctuary where you nurture your crew and customize your ship. Here, unlock new upgrades with resources like Glass and get familiar with your trusty crew. Evolve their skills and prepare for the adventures ahead.

The game also lures in trophy hunters with a comprehensive collection to add to your achievements. From completing story acts to maxing various pirate classes, there’s a bounty of trophies, including a coveted Platinum one, to achieve.

With an enticing mix of tactical battles and pirate folklore, Rogue Waters offers an immersive RPG where Captain Blackbone’s betrayal is motivation enough to conquer the high seas. As Captain Cutter, use every tool at your disposal to retaliate against Captain Blackbone and reclaim what’s yours. The game is available on PlayStation 5 for $29.99, so gear up for a treacherous yet rewarding adventure.

Do note this review is based on a PlayStation 5 version provided by Tripwire Presents, ensuring an authentic experience of this pirate saga.