Islands of the Caliph is an action RPG that blends grid-based dungeon crawling with real-time combat in an open world inspired by Middle Eastern folklore and Islamic spiritual traditions. Players navigate a seafaring civilization across multiple islands using keyboard-only controls that echo 1980s design choices, including limited interfaces and movement restrictions to capture that retro feel. The game emphasizes exploration of deserts, oceans, palaces, and dungeons while collecting resources and tools to progress.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on first-person grid movement combined with immediate real-time fights against enemies. Players advance tile by tile across an open world, searching for items, solving simple environmental challenges, and engaging foes that require positioning and timing rather than complex menus. Combat allows free movement during encounters, encouraging players to dodge attacks while striking back. Exploration drives progression as characters sail between islands, gather materials for crafting or upgrades, and uncover secrets tied to the setting's cultural motifs. A leveling system supports character growth through experience gained in battles and quests.
Game Modes
The experience remains a single-player adventure throughout, with no separate multiplayer or competitive options. Focus stays on the main campaign of discovery and combat across the islands. Players handle all progression solo, moving between surface areas and underground dungeons in a continuous world rather than segmented stages. The structure encourages repeated visits to locations for missed resources or alternate paths uncovered later in the adventure.
Setting and Atmosphere
The world draws from ancient seafaring empires, featuring textured environments that range from open seas to intricate palace interiors and hidden dungeons. Visuals adopt a colorful retro aesthetic that supports the keyboard-driven controls and evokes classic dungeon crawlers. The official soundtrack, composed by Hugo Rodrigue, reinforces the Middle Eastern theme with melodic pieces that accompany travel and exploration without overpowering the gameplay.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception on Steam stands at Very Positive based on 267 reviews, with 88 percent positive feedback. Reviewers describe the title as a comfortable and engaging retro-style experience that rewards steady exploration and simple yet functional combat. The solo-developed title from Schmidt Workshops delivers a focused adventure suited to fans of old-school action RPGs who appreciate grid movement paired with real-time elements. Those seeking a short to medium-length campaign with cultural flavor and no modern frills will find it a solid choice, especially if they enjoy titles that prioritize atmosphere and discovery over high production scale. A free demo allows direct testing of the controls and pace before purchase.
