Ride brooms, cast spells and transform your enemies into chickens in this intense magical sport
At the heart of the gameplay loop, players must time their button presses precisely to capture the powerful, bouncing magical sphere and send it hurtling back toward their opponents. As the sphere is hit, it increases in size and speed, creating a frantic and unpredictable dynamic that requires quick reflexes and strategic positioning to navigate.
The core mechanics are complemented by a variety of offensive and defensive spells, such as the "chicken hex" which transforms opponents into harmless chickens for a short duration. These spells, along with power-ups found throughout the arenas, add additional layers of strategy and chaos to the gameplay.
The game offers a wealth of game modes to suit different playstyles and group sizes. The main "Arcane Arena" mode is a fast-paced, free-for-all deathmatch, while "Merlinball" introduces a team-based variant that evokes the spirit of Quidditch. Other modes, such as "Hexout" and "Spellstorm," further diversify the gameplay by introducing unique objectives and rule sets. The "Trials" mode offers an endless, roguelike-inspired challenge that tasks players with progressing through increasingly difficult gauntlets of battles. This mode allows for customization through a deck-building system, adding an extra layer of strategy and replayability.
Reviewers consistently praise the game's tight, responsive controls, which are essential for the precision required in the high-speed gameplay. Players highlight the "juicy" and impactful feel of each action, from capturing the magical sphere to unleashing devastating spells. The colorful, pixel-art aesthetic and original soundtrack create a whimsical and energetic atmosphere that perfectly complement the frenetic action on screen.
The game features a simple control scheme that allows players of all skill levels to jump in and enjoy the experience. However, the high skill ceiling rewards players who master the timing, positioning, and strategic use of the various mechanics. Many reviewers highlight the game's ability to cater to both casual and competitive players, with the singleplayer campaign and cooperative "Trials" mode providing a challenging, skill-building experience, while the local multiplayer modes foster intense, competitive matches that can be enjoyed with friends.