UNDECEMBER

UNDECEMBER Review

UNDECEMBER is a free-to-play isometric action RPG for PC and mobile (iOS and Android) that aims for the same “build first, character second” appeal as genre staples like Diablo-style dungeon crawlers and more systems-heavy titles such as Path of Exile. It is developed by Needs Games and published by LINE Games, with a global release date listed as October 12, 2022. At its best, it delivers satisfying combat pacing, a surprisingly well-presented campaign, and a flexible rune system that makes experimenting feel worthwhile. At its worst, its monetization and trade limitations can undermine the long-term grind.

A campaign that actually tries

The setting revolves around Traum and the arrival of Serpens, framed through a mythic creation story involving the “Beings” that shaped the world. While many ARPGs treat story as background noise, UNDECEMBER puts more effort into presentation, including fully voiced cutscenes and cinematic moments that make the main plot easier to follow than expected. It still plays like an ARPG (you are here to fight and loot), but the narrative wrapper gives your act-to-act progression a clearer purpose.

Combat feel and build freedom

Moment to moment, UNDECEMBER is about efficient clearing and controlled movement. Skills read clearly, effects are flashy without completely obscuring the screen, and the game regularly shifts you from mob mowing to boss duels that demand attention. The most important design choice is the absence of predefined classes. Instead, your build is defined by what you equip and which runes you slot, so swapping from a ranged approach to a close-range setup can be as simple as retooling your loadout and skill links.

The attribute structure (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence) guides optimization, but it does not cage you into a strict role. If you want to mix weapon styles with spells or lean into summons while still playing a physical weapon, the systems generally support it, which is a big reason the game can feel fresh even if you have played many ARPGs before.

Zodiac Growth System, a flexible progression spine

Character advancement goes beyond simple leveling thanks to the Zodiac Growth System. It is split into two axes, one that strengthens core stats and another built around constellations and passive bonuses unlocked with trait points earned through play. In practice, this provides a steady stream of meaningful choices, particularly for players who enjoy tuning damage types, survivability, and utility rather than just chasing higher item power. It also encourages respec-style experimentation, since passive decisions matter most when they complement your rune links and gear.

Rune Cast and the real heart of customization

UNDECEMBER’s Rune Cast system is where most players will spend their time theorycrafting. Skill Runes provide the baseline abilities, while Link Runes modify behavior, add triggers, and create synergies. The appeal is that you can iterate frequently, test what feels good, and adjust without rerolling a new character. When the system clicks, it gives you that satisfying ARPG loop of “one more tweak” that can turn an average build into a smooth-clearing machine.

Loot, crafting, and the value of upgrading

Gear progression follows the expected ARPG arc, better items unlock as you level, and you continually chase upgrades, but UNDECEMBER also supports investing into pieces you like. Disassembling older equipment for materials and using those resources to enhance favored gear adds a welcome layer of control. It is not purely “replace everything every few levels,” especially once you start caring about how stats and rune links line up with your chosen kit.

Group content and endgame variety

Outside the campaign, the game offers multiple activity types, co-op dungeons for quick sessions, Chaos Dungeons for repeatable farming and challenge scaling, and raids that emphasize boss mechanics and teamwork. PvP in ranked arenas exists for competitive players, though the experience can be heavily influenced by progression and build optimization. Markets and auction systems provide another avenue for gearing, but they also intersect with the game’s monetization in ways that can be frustrating.

Crossplay and controls

Cross-platform play is one of UNDECEMBER’s practical strengths, allowing PC and mobile players to share the same world. Gamepad support is also a meaningful addition, especially for players who prefer controller movement in isometric games. While UI and inventory management naturally feel faster on PC, the core combat translates well across control schemes.

Monetization problems that are hard to ignore

The biggest sticking point is how monetization intersects with progression and convenience. The game has been criticized for pay-to-win pressure, particularly when purchases can influence rune-related power (which effectively means skill strength). Even if you can progress for free, the perception of “paid acceleration” can sour competitive modes and undercut the satisfaction of earning upgrades through play.

Inventory and stash constraints also push players toward spending for comfort. When basic quality-of-life features feel restricted, the grind can shift from “one more run” to “I am fighting my storage,” which is not where an ARPG wants to be.

Trading and the auction house situation

UNDECEMBER also avoids direct player-to-player item trading, funneling economic activity toward an auction house model that involves premium currency. That choice limits community-driven trading and can make the economy feel less organic. For players who enjoy the social side of ARPG economies (bartering, helping friends gear up, building wealth through smart trades), this design will likely be a major negative.

Final Verdict – Fair

UNDECEMBER succeeds as an action RPG when you focus on its combat flow, boss fights, and the satisfying puzzle of linking runes into a build that feels uniquely yours. The presentation is stronger than many free-to-play ARPGs, and the classless approach gives it real replay value for build experimenters. However, the kernel-level anti-cheat, lack of direct trading, and monetization pressure, especially around convenience and power, make it a tougher recommendation for players who want a purely progression-driven grind. For genre fans willing to engage cautiously with the economy and cash shop, it is still worth a look.

UNDECEMBER Links

UNDECEMBER Official Site
UNDECEMBER Steam Page
UNDECEMBER Google Play Store
UNDECEMBER App Store
UNDECEMBER Wiki
UNDECEMBER Subreddit

UNDECEMBER System Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

Operating System: Windows 7 64-bit
CPU: Intel Core i5-4430 or AMD FX-6300
Video Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 2GB or AMD Radeon R7 370 2GB
RAM: 8 GB RAM
Hard Disk Space: 20 GB available space
DirectX: Version 11

Recommended Requirements:

Operating System: Windows 7 64-bit
CPU: Intel Core i5-6600k or AMD Ryzen5 1600
Video Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB or AMD Radeon RX 580 4GB
RAM: 16 GB RAM
Hard Disk Space: 20 GB available space
DirectX: Version 11

UNDECEMBER Music & Soundtrack

UNDECEMBER Additional Information

Developer: Needs Games
Publisher: LINE Games

Platforms: Windows PC

Engine: Unreal Engine 4

South Korea Launch Date: January 13, 2022
Official Launch Date: October 12, 2022

Development History / Background:

UNDECEMBER is a free-to-play cross-platform isometric multiplayer action RPG developed by Italian video game development studio Needs Games and published by South Korean video game developer and publisher LINE Games.

The game initially launched in South Korea in January 13, 2022 followed by a global launch on PC, Android, and iOS devices on October 12, 2022.