Underkeep Offers a Modern Take on Classic Dungeon Crawling
A grid-based RPG that revives 1990s dungeon crawler mechanics with modern quality-of-life improvements.
1A Nostalgic RPG Revival
Underkeep launched on Steam on November 5, positioning itself as a spiritual successor to early 1990s grid-based RPGs like Eye of the Beholder. While many players are currently focused on Queen's Domain, this title offers a distinct alternative that emphasizes traditional dungeon exploration mechanics while stripping away the most frustrating design elements.
2Modernized Gameplay Mechanics
The game streamlines inventory management by categorizing items, allowing for seamless equipment swapping between party members. It also features a detailed automapping system that supports freehand notes, removing the tedious requirement of manual paper mapping. Furthermore, essential tools are used automatically, significantly reducing the micromanagement typically associated with this specific genre.
3Strategic Turn-Based Combat
Unlike many real-time dungeon crawlers, Underkeep is entirely turn-based, which forces players to engage in more thoughtful tactical planning. This design choice removes the common exploit of hitting enemies and retreating before they can retaliate. Combat encounters require players to commit to their turns, creating a more deliberate and rewarding strategic experience.
4Unique Racial Diversity
The game features unconventional races such as stoneborn, ravens, and slugmen, each offering distinct gameplay advantages and limitations. Stoneborn act as durable golems with low agility, while ravens are subject to random mutations that provide unique buffs. Players can freely combine these races with standard classes like fighters or wizards without any restrictions.
5Addressing AI Art Concerns
Following community speculation on Steam forums, developer Rake in Grass has explicitly denied using generative AI for the game's assets. The studio maintains that all artwork was hand-drawn by multiple artists, attributing visual inconsistencies to dynamic scaling and perspective simulation. No official AI disclosure is currently present on the store page.
6Exploration and World Design
The game world is unexpectedly large, featuring dungeons that are interconnected both horizontally and vertically. Players explore an expansive overworld that extends far beyond the titular village of Underkeep. Even after four hours of gameplay, the developer has ensured that players feel as though they have only just begun to uncover the secrets.
7Pricing and Availability
Underkeep is currently available on Steam for $19.50, reflecting a 15% launch discount that remains active until November 19. For those hesitant to purchase, a demo version is available, providing approximately one hour of compressed gameplay. This allows potential players to experience the mechanics and encounter writing before committing to the full version.
8A Genre Benchmark
Underkeep stands out as a significant entry in the grid-based RPG genre, drawing favorable comparisons to the acclaimed Legend of Grimrock series. By balancing nostalgic design with modern accessibility, it provides a compelling experience for fans of classic tabletop-style encounters. It serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of traditional dungeon exploration.
Original article: PC Gamer — Underkeep Offers a Modern Take on Classic Dungeon Crawling