Dungeons of Hinterberg

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps, Dungeons of Hinterberg is a captivating blend of action-RPG and adventure game. You play as Luisa, a burned-out law trainee seeking a break from her hectic corporate life. Instead, she finds a world filled with magic, monsters, and unexpected friendships in the tourist hotspot of Hinterberg. Armed with a sword and a trusty tourist guide, players embark on a journey to conquer the mysterious dungeons scattered throughout this alpine paradise.

The game masterfully balances these elements, allowing players to snowboard down glaciers, zipline through forests, and sip coffee by serene lakes between battling monsters and solving intricate puzzles.

This unique combination of laid-back tourism and high-stakes adventuring truly makes the game shine. The charming art style and immersive atmosphere transport you to a world where magic feels as natural as the crisp mountain air.

A Symphony of Swords and Snowboards

The combat system in Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a refreshing take on traditional RPG mechanics. It blends fluid swordplay with elemental magic in a way that feels both intuitive and exhilarating. Conjuring a snowboard mid-battle to glide past enemies before freezing them in a jelly block is as fun as it sounds. This system brings to mind the freeform creativity of Jet Set Radio's movement but with an alpine, RPG twist.

The variety of spells and combat techniques keeps encounters fresh, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies. Whether you're harnessing the wind to create advantageous positions or using ice magic to control the battlefield, each fight feels like a playground for your magical abilities.

Puzzles That Peak Your Interest

Dungeons of Hinterberg's puzzle design deserves special mention. Unlike many RPGs where puzzles feel like obligatory roadblocks, here they are an integral and enjoyable part of the dungeon-crawling experience. The puzzles are cleverly woven into the game's magical theme, often requiring a combination of spellcasting, environmental awareness, and good old-fashioned problem-solving.

These brain-teasers range from simple switch puzzles to complex, multi-step challenges that will have you scratching your head in the best way possible. It's reminiscent of the satisfying puzzle-solving moments in classic Dragon Quest games but with a modern, magical twist that feels fresh and engaging.

Alpine Adventures and Cozy Connections

Outside the dungeons, Hinterberg comes alive as a vibrant tourist destination. The game excels in creating a lived-in world filled with quirky characters and picturesque locations. Spending time with the locals and fellow adventurers isn't just a side activity; it's a core part of the experience that directly impacts your growth as a slayer.

These social interactions add depth to the game, offering a cozy contrast to the dungeon-crawling. Whether you're learning new tricks from a seasoned adventurer or simply sharing stories over a warm drink, these moments of connection make Hinterberg feel like a second home. Fans of the Persona series might find these interactions just like Social Links to fulfill — yet more to do in the touristic winterland of Hinterberg.

Pros

• Unique blend of tourism and dungeon-crawling
• Creative combat system
• Charming setting and character interactions

Cons

• May be too laid-back for those seeking constant action
• Some puzzles might be frustratingly challenging for casual players