Unique gametype unrepresented in the US
Cardinal Arc's marriage of turn-based strategy ala Final Fantasy Tactics with a Magic: The Gathering-esque card battle system has created something wholly addicting. Unlike other card games where deck combos and power cards are the tools of success, Cardinal Arc emphasizes strategy to win. The only downside is that experienced card and strategy players will be able to create powerful deck combos and themes alongside general board tactics that the AI just can’t cope with. Fortunately, the elemental aspect of the varying game boards and creatures require different decks be used for different locations (ie some levels don’t have any fire spaces so fire creatures are at a disadvantage). While many will think of Culdcept as a comparable, most of Culdcepts tactical board gameplay was like Monopoly rather than FF: Tactics and Ogrebattle. Culdcept is another game that I did not expect to be engrossing, but is very addictive once started. All the different strategies that can be harnessed via great card library & deck management systems really go well with the varying board types and 2 player modes of both games (Cardinal Arc & Culdcept). If you have the means and knowhow, I heartily recommend you pick up Cardinal Arc. With a pen, paper, and some card game know how, it isn’t too difficult to figure out the rules/cards without knowledge of Japanese. If you do not have the means, Culdcept is another great game if you can find it.