Used Chrysalis for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.


Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

Chrysalis is an indie strategy game that blends tower defense, survival, and roguelike RPG elements, offering players a dynamic and strategic gaming experience. Developed by Metamorph Games, this unique hybrid challenges players to defend their land from relentless waves of monstrous adversaries. 

Set in a mysterious and ever-changing world, Chrysalis invites players to engage with a mix of tactical planning, resource management, and adaptive gameplay. Each encounter requires thoughtful decisions, as new threats emerge with every phase. The combination of diverse mechanics and procedural challenges ensures that no two runs feel alike, keeping the tension fresh and rewarding.

Innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay

In Chrysalis, players assume the role of a Wisp, an invisible entity tasked with safeguarding its land from dark forces. The Wisp possesses the unique ability to inhabit and control any friendly plant or animal encountered, introducing a compelling layer of strategy. This Ssymbiosis

mechanic allows for direct control over the battlefield, enabling players to adapt their tactics in real-time and respond fluidly to evolving threats.

The game unfolds in alternating phases of Preparation and Defense. During the Preparation phase, players explore procedurally generated levels, defeat roaming monsters, recruit new creatures, and gather resources. This exploration is vital for discovering Growths — plant-based defenses essential for the upcoming onslaught. The subsequent Defense phase shifts the focus to tower defense gameplay, where players must strategically position their amassed defenses to withstand waves of attacking monsters in difficult encounters.

It introduces a deep customization system through Metamorphosis and Mutation. Players can level up creatures and plants, transforming them into powerful versions and applying elemental Spirits for enhancements. The Mutation system allows for the combination of different species, resulting in new creatures with unique abilities and evolutionary paths. With procedural generation and permadeath, each playthrough feels distinct. Permadeath can frustrate players, but it demands thoughtful, adaptive strategies to ensure survival.

Enlarged image for Chrysalis
Chrysalis 0/1
  • Pros

    • Deep creature customization options
    • Procedurally generated level design
  • Cons

    • Permadeath may frustrate players

Bottom Line

A strategic challenge worth undertaking

Chrysalis offers a rich blend of strategic planning, exploration, and survival mechanics. Its innovative possession system, coupled with deep customization options and procedurally generated challenges, provides a compelling experience for players seeking a fresh take on the tower defense genre. For those ready to embrace the role of the Wisp and defend their land against the encroaching darkness, this game presents a rewarding and thought-provoking journey.​

What’s new in version varies-with-devices

  • Patch 1.5 update brings several exciting additions and improvements such as controller support; an added mini map; a new Quick Metamorphosis UI
  • Additional features include new Permanent Boons, a powerful Mythical Boon: Tear of Gaea, and the ability to visit creature Homes after completing a level to purchase resources or Followers.
  • The patch also introduces full key remapping options and unit behavior for Bunniloo’s Spawn Rabbit ability. 
  • UI clarity and precision have improved with a new targeting system for tile-based abilities
  • Better controller-specific Game Tips, and enhanced Mini Map layering. 
  • A variety of bug fixes


Explore More


Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
varies-with-devices
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Also available in:
Mac
Operating System
  • Windows 11
  • Windows 8.1
  • Windows 8
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 7
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
24
Downloads Last Week
1

Report Software

Last Updated


Download.com
Your review for Chrysalis