Game Review: ACE Strategy: Mecha Nova

Posted by: Gianna Cosimini | October 24, 2025 | Demo, Roguelike

Yo, New Mech Pilot!

Heard about ACE Strategy: Mecha Nova but never punched the throttle? If you dig giant robots, brain-burning tactics, and the sweet, sweet randomness of a roguelike deck-builder (think Slay the Spire but with way more ‘bots’), then listen up, this one’s a solid wishlist-n-watch.

What’s the Gist?

It’s a tactical roguelike where you strap into your own ACE Mecha and go on a procedural campaign run. You’re not just throwing cards; you’re building a squad and fighting on a tiny, but mega-important, 3×3 grid. Win battles, grab loot, and try not to get wiped before the final boss.

The Honest Breakdown

Since this is still in Playtest phase, you’re playing a demo of the current build. Here’s the real talk on what’s hot and what’s still cooking:

The Good (The “ACE” Hits)

Tactical Depth is Fire: Don’t let the small grid fool you, it’s where the big-brain plays happen. You’re not just playing a card; you’re placing a unit or drone. Want to stack three drones for a massive damage multiplier? Go for it. Need to put your tanky ally next to your ACE for a sweet buff? Positioning is key, making every move a genuine strategic headache (in a good way!). It’s pure combo potential.
Mecha Fan Service: If you love the genre, the visuals and pilot/mecha abilities feel spot-on. Every mech has a unique kit and playstyle. Choosing your ACE isn’t just cosmetic; it defines your entire run’s meta.
Juicy Build Customization: This ain’t just about cards. The “Chips” are permanent relics/upgrades for your current run, and they let you pivot your build hard. Wanna run an OP drone swarm? Or maybe go all-in on single-target nuke damage? The systems give you the freedom to craft some truly broken builds… if the RNG is on your side.
Devs are on the Ball: For an Early Access game, the team seems dedicated, dropping regular updates and balance tweaks. They’re actually listening to the community, which is huge for a game still finding its perfect balance.

The Bad (The “Nova” Flaws)

The Curve is Steep: If you’re new to this kind of mash-up, prepare to get smashed in your first few runs. The game throws a lot of systems at you; cards, grid, drones, chips, pilot skills. It can feel like a big infodump before things finally click.
Still a Beta Vibe: Since it’s in the playtest phase, expect the occasional jank. Some card descriptions might be a little rough, and certain mechas or enemies might be temporarily gigabroken until the next patch. You’re part of the testing squad!
RNG Can Be a Bruiser: Standard roguelike warning: Sometimes the loot you need just doesn’t drop. You might be building a sick defense deck, only to get offered three pure attack chips. A bad string of luck can lead to an early GG.

Final Verdict for the New Pilot

ACE Strategy: Mecha Nova has a rock-solid core gameplay loop and is a fresh take on the deck-builder genre. It adds an intense spatial element that most card games lack.

You should grab this demo if:

Your brain lights up at the thought of big numbers and intricate card/unit synergies.
You live for the mecha aesthetic and want a game where building your giant robot is the real power fantasy.
You don’t mind getting an early look at a game and can roll with the punches of an unfinished build.

You might want to hold fire if:

You only play polished, bug-free games.
You get frustrated easily when a run dies due to bad luck.

Overall: The foundation is amazing, the combat system is addictive, and the mecha designs are chef’s kiss. If you’re a strategy fiend, this is one to keep on your screen. Go get those Ws, pilot!