There is a legend from a distant land…
Riot Games’ strategic auto battler, Teamfight Tactics, which made its debut in 2019, has developed significantly since then.
However, due to its complex layers, new players might struggle to grasp the game even after several attempts. Fables and Tactics — a project currently under development by Dim Sum Games, aims to create a more accessible yet strategically deep auto battler.
This auto chess game for mobiles is set in a fantasy world, offering a rapid-fire gameplay, strategic elements and an enticing roster of characters, all portrayed in an appealing chibi anime style.
ONE Esports had a chat with co-founder of Dim Sum Games, Derek Winder, a former Riot Games employee, to learn more about the title.
Dim Sum Games’ Approach to an Accessible Auto Battler
Dim Sum Games not only explored multiple genres but ultimately chose the auto battler scene due to their fondness for the genre and its potential.
Currently, the prominent auto battlers are Teamfight Tactics and Golden Spatula from Riot Games, influenced by League of Legends, and Magic Chess by Moonton, inspired by Mobile Legends.
“Innovative games like TFT can be daunting for beginners. The lengthy matches and intricate mechanics can be off-putting,” as explained by Derek to ONE Esports.
Dim Sum Games sees an opening in the market to create an easier auto battler that will allow players to quickly engage in light-hearted games that conclude in just three to five minutes. “Imagine something akin to Marvel Snap—rapid, strategic, and endlessly enjoyable—but within the auto battler space,” he added.
Marvel Snap, a mobile game developed by Second Dinner and published by Nuverse, introduced fresh mechanics to the collectible card game genre in October 2022 and reduced match lengths, making it highly accessible to Hearthstone and Legends of Runeterra enthusiasts.
“I was surprised to find that, despite Magic Chess providing a better mobile experience than TFT, it still shares similar complexities. Players need to navigate through complex systems like economy, positioning, and drafting,” Derek stated. And with such complexities come lengthy match times, typically ranging from 20 to 40 minutes.
The second significant entry barrier is burnout, as observed by Dim Sum Games. In TFT, for example, Riot launches several new sets each year, which resets the gameplay and the rank ladder.
After grueling hours studying the meta, mastering unit positioning, managing the economy, and optimizing items, Derek managed to reach the Diamond rank in TFT. However, when the set resets and he had to restart from zero, he felt more overwhelmed than accomplished, increasingly leaning on guides and overlays.
“With Fables and Tactics, we’ve designed the game to avoid such fatigue. We’ve simplified the complexity, letting players focus on making smart tactical choices and engaging in fast, satisfying matches,” he explained.
The Mechanics of Fables and Tactics
Dim Sum Games noted elements of auto battlers that contribute to a steep learning curve, such as managing the economy, scouting rivals, and optimizing item usage.
Instead, they want players to focus on building a deck that suits their style of play, and strategize while adapting to their opponent.
“Our game art also makes us unique. Our heroes are designed as amusing, collectible 3D models that resemble display-worthy figurines. We’ve even created high-quality physical figurines, combining the digital and real-world gaming experiences,” Derek further explained.
Their two major playtests so far have yielded positive feedback on the game speed, its accessibility, and community involvement.
According to Derek, “Rocky—a literal rock with eyes— was initially a goof that ended up being a crowd-favourite, leading to immense player engagement, laughter, and sharing.”
He further added, “One player participated in the game 500 times over a span of a three-day playtest. That level of enthusiasm indicates we’re developing something truly special.” Thanks to such feedback, they confidently plan for a soft launch targeting Asian markets in late Q2 2025—less than a year since they began development. They’re eager to share Fables and Tactics with a broader audience as it has been riding on immense momentum thus far.
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