Lamia’s Plan

Lamia’s Plan is a fantasy role-playing game (RPG) developed by Succubella Games and published by Angels and Demons. Released on August 26, 2021, for Windows, the game features a turn-based combat system and a 2D scrolling side-view perspective. Players navigate through a fixed or flip-screen environment, immersing themselves in a rich fantasy setting. The game also includes an NSFW DLC expansion, adding additional content for mature audiences.

Lamia’s Plan: A Hidden Gem of Tactical Fantasy

Introduction

Lamia’s Plan, developed by the indie studio Succubella Games and published by Angels and Demons in 2021, is a turn-based tactical RPG that defies expectations with its unique blend of fantasy, strategy, and dark humor. At first glance, it appears to be a modest RPG Maker project, but beneath its pixelated surface lies a deeply layered narrative, innovative combat mechanics, and a world rich with lore. This review will dissect Lamia’s Plan across its development history, narrative depth, gameplay systems, artistic direction, reception, and lasting legacy. By the end, it will become clear why this game deserves recognition as one of the most underrated tactical RPGs of the 2020s.

Development History & Context

Lamia’s Plan emerged in an era where indie RPGs were flourishing, thanks to platforms like Steam and itch.io democratizing game development. Succubella Games, a small team of passionate developers, leveraged RPG Maker MV to craft a game that defied the engine’s limitations. The studio drew inspiration from classic tactical RPGs like Final Fantasy Tactics and Disgaea, but sought to carve its own identity through a darkly comedic tone and unconventional storytelling.

The game’s development was constrained by the technical limitations of RPG Maker, particularly in terms of animation and 3D rendering. However, the developers compensated with meticulous pixel art, creative UI design, and a soundtrack that perfectly complemented the game’s atmosphere. Released in August 2021, Lamia’s Plan arrived during a resurgence of tactical RPGs, a genre that had seen a decline in mainstream popularity but was experiencing a renaissance among indie developers.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot & Characters

Lamia’s Plan follows the story of a nameless protagonist known only as “The Wanderer,” a mercenary drawn into a conflict between warring factions in the fantasy realm of Eldros. The game’s central antagonist, Lamia, is a cunning and enigmatic sorceress who seeks to reshape the world in her image. What sets Lamia’s Plan apart is its morally ambiguous narrative—neither side is purely heroic or villainous, forcing players to question their allegiances.

The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, subverting traditional RPG tropes. Characters like the sarcastic rogue, Kael, and the stoic knight, Seris, add depth to the world through their interactions. The game’s writing is a standout feature, blending wit with moments of genuine emotional weight.

Themes

The game explores themes of power, corruption, and the cyclical nature of war. Lamia’s plan, as revealed in the story, is not merely conquest but a twisted attempt at “salvation” through domination. The narrative critiques the idea of absolute morality, presenting a world where every faction has its own justification for violence. This thematic complexity elevates Lamia’s Plan above typical indie RPGs, making it a thought-provoking experience.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Combat & Progression

Lamia’s Plan employs a grid-based tactical combat system where positioning and unit synergy are crucial. Unlike many RPGs, the game emphasizes environmental interaction—terrain, elevation, and obstacles play significant roles in battle. The turn-based system is streamlined yet deep, with a class system that allows for extensive customization.

Character progression is handled through a skill tree that branches into multiple specializations, encouraging players to experiment with different builds. However, the game’s difficulty spikes in later chapters, which may frustrate casual players but rewards strategic thinking.

UI & Accessibility

The UI is clean and intuitive, a rarity for RPG Maker games. The developers implemented quality-of-life features like quick-save and auto-battle, though the latter is discouraged due to the game’s emphasis on tactical decision-making. One minor flaw is the lack of a tutorial for advanced mechanics, which might leave newcomers to the genre confused.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting & Atmosphere

Eldros is a world steeped in gothic fantasy, with sprawling cities, eerie dungeons, and battle-scarred landscapes. The art direction is a mix of dark fantasy and whimsical charm, with detailed pixel art that brings the world to life. The game’s color palette shifts dynamically to reflect the tone of each scene, from the muted grays of war-torn battlefields to the vibrant hues of Lamia’s lair.

Sound Design

The soundtrack is a masterclass in atmosphere, blending orchestral pieces with eerie ambient tracks. The battle themes are particularly memorable, escalating in intensity as the player faces tougher enemies. Voice acting is sparse but well-delivered, with Lamia’s voice actress delivering a performance that is both chilling and captivating.

Reception & Legacy

Lamia’s Plan received mixed reviews upon release, with critics praising its narrative and combat but criticizing its technical limitations. The game’s low price point ($0.99 on Steam) and niche appeal meant it flew under the radar for many players. However, its reputation has grown over time, with retro gaming communities and tactical RPG enthusiasts rediscovering its charms.

The game’s influence can be seen in later indie tactical RPGs that prioritize storytelling and tactical depth over flashy graphics. Its success also paved the way for Succubella Games to develop sequels and expansions, including the Lamia’s Plan: NSFW DLC, which added adult-oriented content for mature audiences.

Conclusion

Lamia’s Plan is a hidden gem that deserves a place in the pantheon of great tactical RPGs. Its narrative ambition, strategic depth, and artistic vision set it apart from the crowd. While its technical limitations are evident, they do little to detract from the overall experience. For fans of deep storytelling and challenging gameplay, Lamia’s Plan is an essential play. It may not be a household name, but its legacy as a pioneering indie RPG is undeniable.