In the world of digital board games, Passant brings a refreshing twist to the traditional game of chess. This innovative chess roguelike, developed by the indie game creator known as Marc MakesGames, has made its debut on Steam, offering players a uniquely challenging experience as they seek to advance through various stages toward the coveted title of Grandmaster.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Passant is its incorporation of over 100 modifiers, also referred to as badges, which add diverse layers of strategy to each match. Inspired in part by design concepts from the game Balatro, these badges provide players with intriguing choices. They can opt to lay down poisonous squares, introduce rock tiles, set off multiple piece explosions, or even add entirely new pieces, like a cannon, that change the dynamics of traditional chess play.
Strategic Progression
The path to achieving Grandmaster status in Passant is not just about defeating opponents but also involves strategic board construction. As players advance through each increasingly difficult stage, they must carefully build their boards piece by piece. This feature allows for a highly personalized gaming experience, as each player can tailor their board according to their strategic preferences.
Adding to the game's depth, between each stage there exists a marketplace where players can purchase new pieces or power-up badges that enhance their gameplay capabilities. Here, players can also acquire various useful items, ensuring they are well-prepared for subsequent challenges.
Now available at a special launch price of $10.79 in the US and £8.99 in the UK, Passant invites players to reimagine what is possible on the chessboard. This offering is not only a homage to time-tested strategies but also a celebration of ingenuity and creativity, pushing the boundaries of a classic board game.
As more players worldwide begin to explore the possibilities within Passant, it's clear that Marc MakesGames has succeeded in crafting a captivating experience that marries the familiar with the novel, breathing new life into a centuries-old game.
