Epic Games continues its beloved holiday tradition of offering a generous selection of free games, much to the delight of PC gamers. This year’s lineup features notable titles such as Death Stranding and Vampire Survivors, which many players may already own. However, for those who don’t, the opportunity to acquire these games at no cost is certainly appealing. Alongside these major releases, there are hidden gems worth exploring, such as Astrea: Six-Sided Oracles, which I highly recommend grabbing while it’s available.
Discovering Astrea: Six-Sided Oracles
Astrea is a unique addition to the deckbuilding genre, drawing inspiration from Slay the Spire but swapping cards for dice—a simple yet innovative change that alters the gameplay experience significantly. Developed by a small indie team in São Paulo, Brazil, Astrea stands out not only for its engaging mechanics but also for its stunning visuals, showcasing the talent of a team that is clearly punching way above its weight.
With an impressive 80% review score from PC Gamer, Dominic Tarason highlights the game’s dramatic turns, which provide a refreshing contrast to the high-scoring runs found in Balatro. The core of Astrea revolves around an ingenious system called Virtues, which are abilities inherent to each character that become available as players take Corruption damage. These abilities can be pivotal in turning the tide of a match, allowing players to reroll dice or unleash powerful attacks, all while managing their health and strategy.
The gameplay is a delicate balancing act, where a single miscalculation can lead to swift defeat. Fortunately, most characters possess three lives, which are restored upon defeating a region’s end boss, offering a safety net against catastrophic errors. However, players are often tempted to wager these lives for permanent upgrades, introducing an element of risk that can turn even the most cautious player into a gambler. This dynamic ensures that each turn is filled with tension and engagement, making for a thrilling experience.
Since its release on PC in September 2023 and subsequent launch on consoles, Astrea has received a series of updates that enhance its replayability. Features such as rebalancing, official mod support, and customizable runs allow players to tailor their experiences, catering to the desires of true roguelike enthusiasts.
Currently priced at .74 during the Steam sale, the opportunity to acquire Astrea for free through the Epic Games Store is a deal too good to pass up. Rather than letting it gather dust among other neglected freebies, I encourage players to take the plunge and discover this hidden gem. It promises to be a captivating addition to your holiday gaming lineup.
