Avinash Rohra 
A Galactic Hand of Strategy and Chaos
Card battlers are a dime a dozen these days, but every so often, one comes along that demands attention. Takara Cards is the latest entry in the ever-expanding deck-building genre, blending roguelike progression, turn-based combat, and sci-fi fantasy aesthetics into one captivating package. But does it stand out in an already crowded space? Let’s shuffle through its best (and worst) plays.
What is Takara Cards?
At its core, Takara Cards is a sci-fi deck-building roguelite that combines tactical combat with procedural encounters. Developed by Post Mortem Pixels, the game tasks players with piloting a spaceship across the galaxy, engaging in strategic battles using an ever-evolving deck of cards. Each run presents a fresh challenge, with randomized events, enemy formations, and a deep progression system that keeps players coming back for another round.
The game draws inspiration from genre heavyweights like Slay the Spire, FTL: Faster Than Light, and Cobalt Core, but introduces unique mechanics that set it apart, including a 3×3 combat grid, ship-based maneuvering, and a dynamic reputation system that influences your playthrough.
Chasing Dragons in the Stars
Takara Cards places you in the role of a Federation cadet, tasked with hunting down legendary Space Dragons that have stolen from the Federation. The premise may sound simple, but the execution is layered with mystery, political intrigue, and faction-based storytelling.
Players can choose from four different species—Dwarves, Elves, Orks, and Humans—each with unique abilities and playstyles. The reputation system means that every decision you make affects how factions perceive you, leading to different event outcomes and combat encounters. While the narrative isn’t as deep as a dedicated RPG, it provides enough flavor to make the universe feel alive.
Tactical Depth with a Learning Curve
The heart of Takara Cards lies in its turn-based combat system. Battles take place on a 3×3 grid where positioning is just as important as the cards you play. You’ll need to manage energy carefully, as each action—whether attacking, moving, or activating abilities—drains your limited power pool.
The deck-building mechanics are robust, with over 140 cards available, ranging from basic attacks and shields to advanced ship maneuvers and faction-specific abilities. The ability to chain actions and execute powerful combos adds a layer of strategic depth reminiscent of Into the Breach, forcing players to think several turns ahead.
However, the game’s complexity can be overwhelming, especially in the early hours. The tutorial provides the basics, but mastering the game requires trial and error. The codex helps, but it’s a lot of information to digest at once, which might deter casual players.
If you love games like Slay the Spire, FTL, or Monster Train, you’ll likely enjoy Takara Cards. Its blend of tactical decision-making, deck-building, and roguelike progression makes it a great fit for players who enjoy deep strategic challenges. However, if you prefer a more straightforward or casual experience, the game’s complexity may be a barrier to entry.
Worth the Shuffle?
Takara Cards successfully carves out its niche in the deck-building roguelike genre with its innovative combat system, deep strategic layers, and engaging aesthetic. While it stumbles in areas like accessibility and enemy variety, the core gameplay is compelling enough to warrant multiple playthroughs.
[This review is based on a press build of the game provided by the publisher. This Game has been reviewed on PC]
