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About Anthem#9
Anthem#9 is a puzzle-battler game blending deck-building and rogue-lite elements. Developed by koeda and published by Shueisha Games, it launched on PC in February 2026. Players take on the role of secret agents battling to restore world order, using gem-based puzzles to craft skills and strategies. The game focuses on customizing "Recipes" to build unique decks, with procedurally generated levels adding replayability. Its indie roots shine through in tight mechanics and a story that mixes espionage with high-stakes combat. Think of it as a strategic twist on puzzle games, where every match feels like a mini-campaign.
Gameplay
basically, Anthem#9 revolves around matching colored gems on a grid to trigger abilities. Each battle is turn-based: you arrange gems to power skills, attack enemies, or buff stats. Recipes let you mix and match effects, like combining fire and wind gems for a shockwave. Between runs, you tweak your deck, prioritizing efficiency or burst damage. Battles are fast but demand planning; one misstep can cost the fight. The rogue-lite structure means losing progress on failure, but unlocking permanent upgrades keeps you coming back. Controls are click-and-drag simplicity, but mastering gem placement takes time. Sessions last 20, 40 minutes, balancing puzzle-solving with tactical risk-reward decisions.
What Players Think
PlayPile users rate Anthem#9 8.2/10, with 78% completing its core story. Average playtime sits at 14 hours, though 35% of players log over 20. Community moods are split: 62% call it "addictively deep," while 28% gripe about "grindy progression." Critic reviews highlight its "creative fusion of puzzle and deck-building" but note a "steep learning curve." Achievement completion rates are high, 89% for the "Master Alchemist" trophy, but 45% of players abandon the "Perfect Clear" challenge. Positive threads praise recipe customization, while negatives cite repetitive enemy patterns in later stages.
PlayPile's Take
Anthem#9 is a must-play for puzzle-strategy fans willing to invest time. Its gem-matching mechanics feel fresh, and the recipe system offers satisfying depth. At $29.99, it’s reasonably priced for its content, though the 14-hour average playtime might feel short for some. Achievements add longevity, but don’t expect a smooth ride, early deaths are common. If you enjoy methodically building systems and don’t mind frustration, give it a shot. Skip if you prefer casual or fast-paced gameplay. The game’s ambition shows, even if it stumbles a few times along the way.
Game Modes
Single player
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