Emberfall Saga

Emberfall Saga surprised us. It looks like a hundred other fantasy RPGs from the icon, but the moment you start recruiting party members it shows some real personality. Every companion has a distinct combat role and a handful of banter lines that made us actually care who was in the lineup.

Battles are turn-based and lean tactical without being overwhelming. You position, you plan, you watch the elemental combos land. The mobile controls are thoughtful — everything's within thumb reach and there's an auto-battle for the grindy stretches.

The story moves at a brisk pace and doesn't pad itself out with fetch quests. For a game you can play in short bursts on your phone, it hangs together remarkably well.

What we liked

• Memorable party companions
• Tactical but approachable combat
• Story that doesn't overstay its welcome