Farlight kicked off 2024 with a bang, continuing their successful partnership with Lilith Games to bring the much-anticipated AFK Journey to mobile platforms. As we step into 2025, the momentum continues with Farlight's latest venture, Ace Trainer, which has caught our attention during its soft-launch in regions such as South Korea and the United States.
So, what exactly is Ace Trainer? At its core, it's a game that feels reminiscent of Pokémon, where players collect, train, and level up fantastical creatures to battle on their behalf. However, Farlight introduces a unique twist, reminiscent of Palworld, by integrating a tower defense mechanic where these creatures fend off waves of zombies rather than engaging in traditional turn-based combat.
But that's not all—Ace Trainer also incorporates pinball elements, allowing players to shoot and collect resources. This eclectic blend of genres, including tower defense, pinball, PvP, and PvE, showcases Farlight's ambitious approach. While this mix might not be ready for a global rollout just yet, the soft launch across multiple regions signals Farlight's high expectations for Ace Trainer.
The phrase "everything and the kitchen sink" aptly describes Ace Trainer based on the initial impressions. While I haven't had the chance to play it in the UK, the combination of various game mechanics is intriguing yet overwhelming. It's a mix that might make some players' eyes light up with excitement, given the popularity of these elements in modern gaming. However, the question remains whether this diverse set of features can withstand long-term player scrutiny.
If you enjoy our insightful commentary, be sure to check out the latest episode of the Pocket Gamer podcast for more on the exciting news kicking off 2025.
