Book of Demons is a hack and slash deck-building hybrid that blends action RPG elements with card-based combat, set in procedurally generated dungeons beneath an old cathedral. Players take on the role of a hero battling demonic forces using a customizable deck of magic cards rather than traditional weapons. Available on Nintendo Switch, this title emphasizes strategic fights and flexible session lengths, making it accessible for quick plays or longer dives into its paper-cutout styled world.
Gameplay
In Book of Demons, the core loop revolves around exploring winding dungeon paths while engaging in combat through a card system. You collect and equip cards that function as items, spells, and skills, upgrading them with runes to enhance effects or add bonuses. Combat requires careful timing and selection, as you deal with enemy traits like shields, poisons, or spells that can disrupt your hand.
Dungeons generate procedurally, offering varied layouts with over 70 monster types, each with unique behaviors. A key mechanic is the Flexiscope system, which lets you set quest durations to fit your schedule, estimating completion time based on your playstyle. Movement follows predefined paths, focusing attention on tactical decisions rather than free navigation.
Game Modes
The game features a single-player campaign where you progress through story-driven quests, typically taking around 10 hours to complete with one character class. This mode builds your deck and levels up as you delve deeper into the cathedral's depths.
Freeplay mode allows for customized difficulty levels and additional quests, ideal for experimenting with builds or maxing out characters without story constraints. For a tougher challenge, Roguelike mode introduces permadeath, limited healing options, and increased obstacles, testing your strategy in high-stakes runs.
Current State and Updates
As of 2026, Book of Demons remains a standalone experience with its original 2018 release content intact, including procedural elements and card upgrades. It supports controller use on Switch for comfortable handheld or docked play, and leaderboards track high scores across sessions.
While no major updates have been added recently, the game's systems hold up well, with cloud save compatibility ensuring progress carries over seamlessly. Its design prioritizes replayability through varied card combinations and dungeon layouts.
Is It Worth Playing?
Book of Demons has earned very positive reception, with 90 percent of 3,874 English reviews on platforms rating it favorably and an overall Metacritic score of 72. Players appreciate its blend of hack and slash action with deck-building depth, often noting the addictive short-session format.
If you enjoy strategic combat in a casual RPG setting without overwhelming complexity, this title offers solid value on Nintendo Switch. It's particularly suited for those seeking a lighter take on dungeon crawlers, though it may not satisfy fans of more intricate gear systems. With no ongoing seasons or live support, it stands as a complete package worth trying for its unique card mechanics and flexible playtime.