Disgaea 6 brings more colorful turn-based tactics to PC this summer

The Disgaea series is definitely an acquired taste, but if you love turn-based tactics and anime these games are basically essential. Even if, like me, the extreme whimsy and goofy jokes aren't your cup of tea, it's reasonably easy to ignore those elements and just enjoy the hundreds of hours of strategic combat. For those who have managed to complete all existing Disgaea games somehow, and are still hungry for more, here's good news: Disgaea 6 hits PC "this summer" (winter on the other side of the world).

Disgaea 6 released exclusively for Nintendo Switch and PS4 in June 2021, and is the first to boast fully 3D graphics, but don't worry: it's still an isometric affair. Disgaea games have never been lacking when it comes to options, build varieties and more, but this sixth instalment naturally adds more. For example, there's a new Demonic Intelligence feature that allows extremely detailed customization when it comes to a character's auto battle behavior, which should help with power levelling because, oh, the level cap is 99,999. This game has content, rest assured, with a whole new management layer added to the usual grid-based skirmishes.

Also, you play as a zombie, which is a nice change from simply (re)killing them. It's Zed's job to save the Netherworld from the scourge of the God of Destruction. Since the Netherworld is populated by demons, it might seem wise to allow this God of Destruction to do its work, but, you play as a zombie, remember. It makes anime sense.

Reviews for Disgaea 6 were mixed, with some critics objecting to the Demonic Intelligence feature (on the grounds that, who wants a game that plays itself?) and its otherwise close similarity to Disgaea 5. But this series scratches an itch like few other tactics RPGs do, and the PC version will include all previously released DLC, including characters, cosmetics and "colors".

Shaun Prescott is the Australian editor of PC Gamer. With over ten years experience covering the games industry, his work has appeared on GamesRadar+, TechRadar, The Guardian, PLAY Magazine, the Sydney Morning Herald, and more. Specific interests include indie games, obscure Metroidvanias, speedrunning, experimental games and FPSs. He thinks Lulu by Metallica and Lou Reed is an all-time classic that will receive its due critical reappraisal one day.