One of our favorite co-op RPGs just got a whole lot better as the Sunderfolk 2.0 update is now available. The free update unlocks online multiplayer on PC (with mouse and keyboard controls), and adds new one-shot missions, and a seventh hero class, on all platforms.
I can confirm that online multiplayer works well with up to four players (watch our video session above). Sessions are player-hosted, and use the Steam/Epic friends list for invites (there is no online matchmaking). All players must own a copy of Sunderfolk on PC.
The original version of Sunderfolk is built with the unique phone app controller for each player, while playing via online multiplayer uses the new mouse and keyboard controls.
The town screen is a little less interactive; players still select different buildings for upgrades or shopping, but NPC conversations are reduced to a single menu.
In combat, players who aren’t used to the original phone controls may find movement awkward; the mouse cursor tracks movement as if you were sliding along with your finger on a touch screen, making it a bit more finicky than it should be.
The other big restriction: online multiplayer is limited to the PC version only, due to the new mouse and keyboard controls.
Other than those minor quibbles, playing Sunderfolk online is a dream come true for many fans who love the game, but couldn’t get their group together for couch co-op.
Of course, I had to try the new hero class. The Vanguard is a melodramatic bunny sporting an eyepatch and a giant sword that would make Cloud jealous.
The Vanguard is a melee-focused class who gains Grit through various skills, and spends Grit reacting to enemy attacks — including at range! A fun option for someone looking for another melee option that packs a bigger punch (and can deal AOE damage) than the tanky berserker, and a bit more staying power than the rogue.
One-shot mode features new missions, as well as all individual campaign missions
The 2.0 update also adds new one-shot missions that are played outside of the full campaign.
The new mode features four one-off standalone missions, along with two scenarios: Sacred Sand, and Arena Rumble.
Arena Rumble is a fairly straightforward trio of gladiatorial battles, while Sacred Sand includes four story-based series of missions involving a new bug ally (Sunderfolk loves its cute bugs!). I particularly enjoyed the second mission where I had to find several keys among a horde of treasure chests — and mimics!
I was also pleasantly surprised to find that one-shot mode includes all of the campaign missions as well. Players can actually select any of the missions from the main campaign, including all side missions, to play separately in one-shot mode.
One-shot mode won’t interrupt any campaign progress, because each mission has a set level, automatically adjusting the heroes to that level, along with the appropriate skill cards, fate cards, and equipment options.
Through each mission of one-shot mode, players can strive for a higher score based on enemies defeated, enemies remaining (if other objectives), gold collected, and how long the mission took.
Hope you’re not afraid of mimics!
One-shot mode is a great way to experience Sunderfolk in smaller chunks, adding a ton of replay value.
On the flip side, as I quickly discovered, one-shot mode is not recommended for newer players. The lowest level mission, the first mission of Arena Rumble, is designed for level 5, and features a pretty challenging boss battle. Conversely, players don’t normally face off against a boss, (and reach level 5, which includes Ultimate abilities) until the end of the first Act in the campaign.
Sunderfolk remains one of my favorite co-op tactical-RPGs (read our original review), and the 2.0 update removes its biggest barrier by adding online co-op. The update also adds an awesome amount of content, and a great way to experience the game without necessarily committing to a full campaign. If you enjoy co-op RPGs, there’s no excuse not to jump in and help defend Arden.
Sunderfolk is available on PC (Steam, Epic), PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox, and rated E10+. It’s on sale for 50% off on Steam through March 19, and the first four missions can be played free via the Free Trial demo.
