It’s always a thrilling moment when a beloved game evolves into a new format. Whether it’s a sequel, an exciting expansion, an innovative spin-off, or, in this case, a digital adaptation of a cherished physical game, a mix of excitement and apprehension always sets in. Will the adaptation capture the original’s magic? Will newcomers embrace it with the same enthusiasm? For Set a Watch, the fantastic tabletop game by Todd Walsh, any initial concerns about its digital transition completely vanished after playing the new Steam Next Fest demo. It perfectly replicates the core feel of the board game, delivering an ideal tactical challenge that honors its origins while inviting new players into its engaging world.
At its heart, I’d describe Set a Watch as a Dungeons & Dragons-esque experience. You embody a group of valiant heroes who have just triumphed in an epic campaign and are now making their way home. However, each night, as you gather around your campfire, your camp is besieged by an array of monsters and magical creatures. Your mission is simple: defend your encampment, or forfeit your well-deserved retirement.
This game unfolds as a captivating dungeon crawler. For every hero you bring into battle, you’ll roll three dice. One hero remains at camp, tending the vital campfire, while the other three confront waves of attackers. Monsters are drawn from a randomized card deck (though this can be influenced), and you’ll strategically spend your dice to either launch attacks (a roll of a six deals six damage) or activate potent character abilities, typically once per round.
Each combat encounter presents a intricate puzzle, intensified by your enemies’ own unique abilities. Whether they’re snatching your dice, pilfering precious firewood, or altering their positions in the combat line, you’ll need to approach every fight with meticulous planning to emerge victorious.
I’m thrilled to report that the digital adaptation of Set a Watch masterfully captures the essence and mechanics of the original tabletop game. However, there’s a small caveat. While I have full faith the final game will surpass my high expectations, I find the demo itself has a minor flaw. Allow me to elaborate.
Remember that randomized encounter deck I mentioned, from which monsters are drawn? In the demo, this element isn’t quite as random. While I’m convinced the full game will feature true randomization, the demo aims to give players a curated glimpse of the complete experience, including a powerful, boss-like foe known as an Unhallowed.
This predetermined monster sequence works well for your initial playthrough of the brief demo. However, if you attempt a second run—perhaps to experiment with different characters or abilities—you’ll encounter the identical parade of monsters in the same exact order. This felt a bit underwhelming, as the core of Set a Watch’s appeal lies in its dynamic, on-the-fly tactical problem-solving. Showcasing that replayability to new players, rather than guaranteeing an encounter with the Unhallowed, might have been a more effective strategy.
Nonetheless, this minor demo limitation won’t impact your initial experience. So, if you’re a fan of D&D-style adventures, engaging card-based dungeon crawlers, or simply enjoy the thrill of rolling dice, then Set a Watch is absolutely worth your time.
Set a Watch Digital Edition is slated for a full release on Steam on Thursday, November 27. You can immerse yourself in the demo as part of Steam Next Fest, available now until Monday, October 20.
Should you finish the demo craving more monstrous encounters, consider exploring some of the finest fantasy games available. For additional tactical challenges, our curated list of the best turn-based strategy games might also pique your interest.
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