SolForge Fusion

I've played my fair share of card games over the years, but SolForge Fusion might just be the weirdest one I've tried yet – and I mean that in the best possible way. Set in a frozen world called Solis, the game blends the instant gratification of TCG pulls with the detailed plot progression of an RPG.

After sinking countless hours into this game, I can honestly say there's nothing quite like it out there. Created by Richard Garfield (yes, the Magic: The Gathering guy) and Justin Gary, SolForge Fusion does something I didn't think was possible anymore – it actually brings something new to the card game scene.

Not Your Average Card Game

Remember the days of copying the latest meta deck from the internet and calling it a day? Yeah, that's not happening here. Every deck in SolForge Fusion is created by smooshing together two algorithmically-generated half-decks, which means everyone's collection is completely different.

And here's the really cool part: your cards actually level up as you play them. That's where the whole RPG progression mechanics come in. Imagine leveling up your Blue-Eyes White Dragon in Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links as you use it – that's just another way SolForge Fusion has to ensure a leveled playfield.

Of Chess and Battles

SolForge goes for a rather unorthodox approach to card combat. Instead of just throwing cards at each other's faces (looking at you, Heartstone), you're playing this intense game of strategic lane placement. It's like chess if chess pieces could level up and shoot fireballs.

Matches wrap up in about 15 minutes, which is perfect for busy schedules. No more getting stuck in hour-long Magic: Arena matches where someone's playing a control deck and apparently wants to die of old age before finishing the game.

Even when you're losing, the card evolution mechanic can be a lifesaver when you least expect it. It feels like pulling off one of those sick reversals in Duel Links – you know, when the music kicks in and you summon eight monsters in a single turn? Kind of like that, but with more of a high fantasy theme.

Frozen Frontiers

Look, the game isn't going to win any awards for pushing your graphics card to its limits, but there's something really charming about its art style. The frozen world of Solis comes through in every card illustration, and watching your cards transform when they level up never gets old.

The single-player campaign is surprisingly meaty too. I initially jumped in just to learn the basics but found myself actually caring about the story. Plus, it's a great way to learn the ropes without some tryhard veteran crushing your soul online (we've all been there).

Something I loved about the game is how the UI is very noob friendly, but also manages to show just enough information for any veteran. It never bombards you with numbers and obscure stats. For a game where you have to keep tabs on multiple attributes during every match, that's a godsend.

Pros

• Randomly generated decks keep you improvising new strategies
• The card leveling-up mechanic is surprisingly addictive
• Great tutorial for newcomers

Cons

• Takes a bit to wrap your head around all the mechanics
• UI could still use some polish
• Limited card pool at launch