Loading...Okay, so you know how diving into tabletop RPGs can feel like learning an entire new language? Like, someone hands you a 300-page rulebook, and suddenly, you’re expected to be both a mathematician and a master storyteller? Yeah, Sunderfolk basically laughs in the face of all that and says, “Nah, we got you.” I got to play this gem at GDC 2025, and let me tell you, it’s hands-down one of the easiest and most fun ways to get into TTRPGs—without all the stress.
The best part? No need to clear a table for a giant map or spend hours figuring out stats. You and your friends just grab your phones, pick a character, and boom, you’re playing. The whole thing runs through a turn-based tactical system that’s way easier to grasp than D&D or Pathfinder. It’s like they took the best parts of a traditional TTRPG and stripped out all the stuff that usually scares people away.
There are six characters to choose from, and they all have their own vibe. You got the badass polar bear Berserker smashing enemies with a hammer, a sneaky weasel Rogue darting around, a fire-slinging salamander Pyromancer—you get the picture. I rolled with the goat Ranger (because obviously, I had to see how far I could push the whole sniper-from-a-distance thing), while two devs jumped in as the Bard and Berserker. Turns out, working together to set up attacks and mess with enemy positions is half the fun.
And speaking of teamwork—this game doesn’t do strict turn orders. You and your friends can just talk things out and decide who’s moving when. There were moments where we were deep in strategy mode, planning an epic combo, only for one of us to go, “Wait, wait, let me do this first!” and cancel their action on the fly. It’s chaotic in the best way.
Then there’s the town, Arden, where all the adorable animal people live. Between fights, you head back to level up, unlock new skills, and—here’s my favorite part—name stuff. We rebuilt a bridge, and whoever threw the most gold at it got to name it. And then, suddenly, the NPCs started referring to it by that name like it had always been there. It’s such a small thing, but it makes the world feel personal.
Oh, and you can romance NPCs too. And if you do, your friends will actually see the impact of your choices. Like, you might be flirting with some cute fox shopkeeper, and the next thing you know, your buddy is talking to her, and she’s like, “Oh yeah, your friend is totally my type.” It’s these little moments that make it feel like you’re actually crafting your own story together, not just running through some pre-written adventure.
Also, huge shoutout to Anjali Bhimani (you might know her from Overwatch or Critical Role) because she voices everything. She’s the narrator, the characters, the whole shebang. It’s like having the best DM ever guiding you along, which makes it perfect for groups who don’t have that one friend willing to take on the Game Master role.
Bottom line? If you’ve ever been curious about TTRPGs but felt intimidated, or if you’re already a fan and just want something chill to play with friends, Sunderfolk is the game to watch. It’s dropping on April 23 for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PC, and Switch, and I’m already planning my next adventure. Now I just gotta convince my friends to actually show up on game night…