A new action RPG is now available on Steam: Last Epoch. This indie project combines many features from well-known representatives of the genre like Diablo 2 and Path of Exile and is now playable in Early Access.
What is Last Epoch? Last Epoch is a classic hack & slash game that draws inspiration from some well-known predecessors of the genre. After six months of development, it has been available in Early Access on Steam since April 30th.
It distinguishes itself from other ARPG competitors releasing in 2019 through a wide selection of classes,
- that have unique spells available,
- that are supposed to be customizable in their specializations
- and that differ significantly from one another.
Currently, Last Epoch is only available on PC via Steam. There is no information yet about a version for PS4 and Xbox One.
What Last Epoch borrows from Diablo 2: Many designs of classes and skills strongly resemble the classes already present in Diablo 2. The Primalist is similar to the Druid, while the Acolyte resembles the Necromancer.
The skills and skill tree also have some aspects of Blizzard’s ARPG classic. You continuously develop spells in the talent tree, occasionally learn new abilities for the specialization, and enhance what you already have.
What Last Epoch borrows from PoE: What is reminiscent of Path of Exile is the depth that classes and items provide. The spells and abilities in Last Epoch are connected in large trees, which are, however, more organized than in PoE.
The crafting and equipment system also resembles that of PoE to some extent. In Last Epoch, you gather resources and use them to improve your items. You can enchant items that are not unique to a certain extent and thereby strengthen them.
What makes Last Epoch unique: What sets Last Epoch apart from other ARPGs is the way the classes function. You can choose one of five starter classes, each of which receives three specializations for further development.
In total, there are 15 specializations available, each with its own unique skills. Each of these specializations is supposed to differ from the others.
Is there a multiplayer? Yes. Up to five players can play together in a group. However, the feature is still limited at the moment and is set to be implemented later. Online and offline characters will be separated.
Are there microtransactions? Yes, Last Epoch plans to offer skins for weapons and armor, pets, and alternate visual spell effects in a cash shop.
Where can I buy Last Epoch? Currently, you can get Last Epoch for €29.99 on Steam. The price is set to fall to $10-$15 before and at release. A free demo up to level 20 is also planned. More information about the game can be found on the official Last Epoch website.
Interested in ARPGs? Currently, another new release is also attracting attention:
