Circus Electrique

Circus Electrique is complex and daunting at first glance. But when approached with an unhurried mindset, this RPG/management hybrid can be deeply rewarding. While the steampunk story elements are a bit light, the game more than makes up for it with strategic gameplay mechanics that I simply haven’t encountered elsewhere. If you can settle in for the long haul, you will find yourself swept up in this rich and unique experience.

Circus Electrique is a great example of how being a "clone" doesn't mean being boring or bad. You can trace the game's roots back to Darkest Dungeon, but it has enough of its own charm and style to make it a worthwhile experience on its own merits. It's more linear and less punishing, which has the potential to make it fair and more accessible than its darker predecessor. I was engaged from start to finish, so it's well worth your time if you're looking for something to scratch the classic Darkest Dungeon itch or if you really like the circus aesthetic.

Circus Electrique is like a complex trifle: it has many layers that need to be in sync in order to achieve balance. It is not a game you can take lightly, and you will spend a lot of time figuring out details, statistics, strategies and tactics. If this sounds like fun to you and you’re willing to invest time and effort in finding satisfaction in a complex system, you’ll have a great time. However, if you do not have the patience for this, Circus Electrique will prove to be a frustrating experience.

Circus Electrique features a unique take on a blend of genres that are nicely balanced against one another – a fun narrative, slick turn based combat and interesting circus management simulation. The art style (a steampunk take on Victorian London) is easy on the eye and players can customise their game to be as strategic as they like. That said, the gameplay loop can be either too demanding or passively easy if not played on the right difficulty.

Unfortunately, conflicting design choices are the cause of most of Circus Electrique‘s problems. While there are certainly some great ideas here and there, they’re almost immediately offset by poor ones typically derived from the overcomplication of mechanics. The convoluted circus events and the gating of paths in the overworld are good examples of this haphazard mentality, as adding the additional requirements to both makes neither enjoyable to navigate. However, players looking to explore a steampunk version of London with a gang of clowns or just enjoy a traditional turn-based combat system with some unique flair may find some fun to be had here.