Have you ever thought that the monsters you fight in dungeons would make a great soup? Then look no further than Cuisineer, a new roguelite dungeon crawler!
So What Exactly Is Cuisineer?
In this game, you play as Pom, an previous budding adventurer and newly made restaurateur. This is because when Pom returns to their hometown, their parents’ restaurant is closed down and deep in debt! The only way to keep it open is to keep it thriving, and there’s only one way to keep everything fresh – delving into dungeons.
Wielding your trusty cooking utensils, brave the unknown and get your ingredients. Battle giant chickens, fire-breathing peppers, and other dangerously delicious devils that may try to block your path.
Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, head straight into the kitchen. Start preparing delicious meals from the ingredients you’ve just foraged and raise your restaurant from a derelict diner to a radiant restaurant – and make your parents proud. Just remember that all your customers will be different – and each one will want a different dish to keep them happy.
This colorful game from XSEED Games stems from a variety of cozy games you may have already heard of, involved in titles such as Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life and the Rune Factory series.
What Else Does The Game Have?
Cuisineer promises a unique dungeon with every time you enter. Each one is procedurally generated, meaning no one dungeon will look the same. Likewise, different dungeons will wield different ingredients, meaning you will have to explore far and wide to get everything you need for your restaurant.
Additionally are a whole host of colorful NPCs for you, as Pom, to interact with. These are friends with their individual dialog, as well as craftsman and artisans to help your business flourish. From these sweet, sour and spicy individuals you can gain quests. Keep an eye out while adventuring for items they may have mentioned, and be rewarded with gold, new ingredients or even entirely new recipes you’re yet to find. And of course, don’t forget to stop off at the Bubble Tea shop to grab yourself a refreshing drink while you’re adventuring.
Combat is also unique. Powers are divided into their own categories, each with their own flare. These are Salty, Sour, Sweet, Bitter, Umami, Frosty and Toasty. Depending on which one of these you choose will then have a different effect – from blazing flame powers to calling lightning, and even poisoning your enemies (though you may not want to poison your ingredients!). These come along with various utensils you can then use to fight with, such as the Spatula, the Tenderizer, and even The Swordfish.
The recipes you unlock are also inspired by a whole host of food from around the world. These range from sweet treats piled with fruit and berries, such as rich Kaya jam, all the way crispy double-fried chicken. These culinary adventures in your kitchen will then attract different clients. Customize your kitchen to optimize your dishes, making it your ideal dining experience.
Where Can I Play Cuisineer?
Cuisineer is already out and available on PC. With mostly positive reviews, this game might be just cozy enough to get you through the winter. Having won the 2023 Indie Wavemakers Judges’ Choice Award, this may be a game to really sink your teeth into. Reviews remain mostly positive.
If you’re interested in a dungeon delving cooking combo, then check out the full launch trailer below.
What are your thoughts on Cuisineer? Will this be a game that you add to your wishlist? Or have you already dived into dungeons in search of deliciousness? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
