Etrange Overlord (2026)

Etrange Overlord delivers a charming villainess tale with sharp humor and great voice work, even if repetitive combat holds it back.

Etrange Overlord, the action RPG or rather the visual novel in game form with a bit of RPG mechanics is a nice game that provides a somewhat fun gameplay loop with humorous banter and a lighthearted story all neatly packed within a 20-hour long experience. It’s a game that you’d either have to like for the story or the story has to like you back. Because sadly, if you’re just here for the gameplay, its lack of post-game loop means that there’s less reasons for you to spend more time with the game after the end credits start rolling.

The narrative is fun if a bit nonsensical and predictable, the characters are a blast, and the musical numbers are a nice touch that distinguishes it from its contemporaries. Unfortunately, the lack of a great combat core combined with monotonous gameplay makes the game ultimately difficult to recommend.

Etrange Overlord turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Beneath its unusual story lies a fast and accessible action RPG that’s easy to enjoy in short bursts. The combat is simple but entertaining, the rotating lane mechanic adds a bit of variety, and the cast of characters gives you plenty of options when building your party. The story can occasionally run longer than necessary, but it also provides many of the game’s funniest moments thanks to Étrange’s confident personality. If you enjoy anime-style RPGs and don’t mind a narrative that takes centre stage, Etrange Overlord is well worth a look. It’s a slightly odd adventure, but that’s very much part of its appeal.

Etrange Overlord is one of the more unique action RPGs I've played in quite some time; hard to not be when the game is basically a musical set in hell. Its unique gameplay elements, cast of characters, and sense of humor carry it through when the action and setting start to wear thin.