Cloudborn is a turn-based strategy game set in a fantasy world called Miyanu. The game combines elements of exploration, combat, and resource management, offering players a unique and engaging experience. In Cloudborn, players take on the role of Meridians, special heroes tasked with restoring balance to a world  affected by a catastrophic event known as The Fracturing. This fractured world consists of floating islands, each filled with hidden treasures, dangerous foes, and powerful artifacts.

In this article, we will explore what Cloudborn is about, delve into its lore, explain the main gameplay mechanics, and discuss the game's economy and tokenomics.

Gameplay

In Cloudborn, the gameplay revolves around three main activities: exploration, combat, and resource management.

Exploration involves traveling across various floating islands, each with its own distinct landscapes such as lush forests, towering mountains, and ancient ruins. As you explore, you will uncover hidden treasures, encounter formidable foes, and find powerful artifacts that can aid you in your quest. 

Combat takes place in turn-based battles where you face off against corrupted Golems and other enemies. Success in these battles requires careful planning and the strategic use of your Meridian’s abilities. Each Meridian is a unique character with a combination of two archetypes, such as Sentinel or Arcanix, which influence their skills and playstyle. 

Resource management involves collecting materials during your adventures. These resources are essential for crafting items and upgrading your characters. Managing these resources wisely ensures you have the necessary tools and equipment for various scenarios. Additionally, the game features a base-building element where you can upgrade your Airship. This allows you to craft powerful artifacts, practice combat, and enhance your NFTs, further supporting your progress in the game.

Game Elements and Their Roles

  • Meridians: These are the primary NFT characters you control. Each Meridian is a unique blend of two archetypes, such as Sentinel or Arcanix, which define their abilities and playstyle. Meridians are your main heroes in the game, and they level up and become more powerful as you play. They also have rich backstories and distinct personalities, adding depth to the gameplay.
  • Golems: These are secondary NFT characters that assist Meridians. Golems can gather resources and help in battles. Each Golem belongs to one of the five archetypes: Marauder, Sentinel, Nanite, Velox, and Arcanix. Their unique abilities make them indispensable allies in both combat and exploration.
  • Airship: Your base of operations in the game. The Airship can be upgraded with facilities that help in crafting, training, and other essential activities. It serves as a central hub for managing resources, upgrading characters, and preparing for missions.

Strategic Combat in Cloudborn

Combat in Cloudborn is turn-based, requiring players to plan and execute their moves carefully. Here's how it works:

  1. Team Formation: Players form a team consisting of Meridians and their Golem companions. Each Meridian has a unique combination of two archetypes, such as Sentinel or Arcanix, which determine their abilities and playstyle.
  2. Turn-Based Mechanics: During battles, players take turns to perform actions such as attacking, defending, or using special abilities. The sequence of actions is determined by the characters' speed and strategic choices.
  3. Ability Use: Meridians have unique abilities based on their archetypes. For example, a Sentinel might have strong defensive skills, while an Arcanix might wield powerful magical attacks. Players must use these abilities strategically to outmaneuver and defeat enemies.
  4. Synergy and Tactics: Combining different abilities and characters' strengths is crucial. Players must create synergies between their Meridians and Golems to maximize their effectiveness in battle. This might involve using a Golem’s defensive abilities to protect a more vulnerable but powerful Meridian.
  5. Leveling Up: As players win battles, their Meridians and Golems gain experience points and level up. This progression enhances their abilities, making them more formidable against tougher enemies.

How to Win in Cloudborn

To win in Cloudborn, players should focus on several key strategies. Progress through the game by finishing the main storyline quests. Start by completing the main story quests, which involve challenging battles against corrupted forces and drive the storyline forward. Regularly upgrade your Meridians and Golems by leveling them up to enhance their stats and abilities, making them stronger and more effective in combat. 

Use strategic combat tactics to outsmart opponents, such as using fire attacks against enemies weak to fire. Explore the floating islands thoroughly to find valuable items like the Crystal of Eternity and the Amulet of Strength, which can boost your characters' abilities. Manage resources efficiently by gathering materials like Mystic Crystals to craft powerful items and upgrades. Finally, engage in the marketplace to trade NFTs, acquiring rare Meridians and Golems to gain an edge. Mastering these elements will help you succeed and progress in the world of Cloudborn.

Tokens and Features

Cloudborn includes several important features and tokens that enhance the gameplay experience:

  1. Peri: This is the primary in-game currency in Cloudborn. You earn Peri by winning battles, completing quests, and participating in special events. It’s used for a variety of purposes, including purchasing new items, upgrading your characters, and crafting powerful equipment. For instance, you might spend Peri to upgrade your Meridians’ abilities or to buy materials needed for crafting. The amount of Peri you earn can vary based on the difficulty of the battles and quests you undertake, making it a key resource for advancing in the game.

  2. NFTs: In Cloudborn, Meridians and Golems are represented as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). Each NFT has unique attributes and abilities that affect how they perform in the game. For example, a rare Meridian NFT might have special powers or higher stats compared to common ones. You can collect, trade, and upgrade these NFTs, which can provide significant gameplay advantages. Acquiring rare NFTs or improving their abilities can make your team more powerful and give you an edge in battles and exploration. The ability to trade NFTs also adds a strategic element, allowing players to customize their teams based on their play style and needs.

    While Cloudborn's official launch date has not yet been announced, the team launched a demo at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco on April 4, 2024.