Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 Review – Story, Gameplay, Pros & Cons (PS5, PS4, Switch, PC)

Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 mark a significant evolution in Toby Fox’s acclaimed indie RPG series. Released on June 4, 2025, for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC, these chapters build upon the foundation of the first two, delivering deeper storytelling, refined gameplay, and enhanced visuals.

🎮 Gameplay & Mechanics

The core mechanics remain rooted in turn-based combat infused with bullet-hell elements. Players can choose between attacking, using magic, or employing the ACT system to resolve encounters non-violently. The introduction of the Tension Points (TP) system adds strategic depth, rewarding players for risky maneuvers and precise timing .

Chapters 3 and 4 introduce more complex enemy patterns and unique boss battles, each requiring distinct strategies. The game’s difficulty scales appropriately, offering challenges that feel rewarding without being overwhelming.

🎨 Visuals & Art Direction

Deltarune continues to embrace its retro-inspired aesthetic, drawing heavily from 16-bit RPGs like EarthBound. However, these chapters showcase a noticeable enhancement in sprite work, animations, and environmental design. The contrast between the Light and Dark Worlds is more pronounced, with the latter featuring vibrant, imaginative landscapes that reflect the game’s evolving tone .

Character portraits have been refined to convey a broader range of emotions, adding depth to interactions and cutscenes. These visual improvements contribute to a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience .

📖 Story & Characters

The narrative delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Kris, Susie, and Ralsei, introducing new characters and expanding on existing ones. Chapters 3 and 4 explore themes of identity, choice, and consequence, with branching paths that lead to multiple endings.

Notably, Chapter 4’s “Snowgrave” route offers a darker, more complex storyline, challenging players to consider the weight of their decisions. The writing balances humor and gravity, maintaining the series’ signature charm while venturing into more mature territory.

📝 Final Verdict

Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 successfully build upon the strengths of their predecessors, offering a richer, more nuanced experience. The enhancements in gameplay, visuals, and storytelling demonstrate Toby Fox’s growth as a developer. While not without minor flaws, these chapters solidify Deltarune’s place as a standout title in the indie RPG genre.

For fans of narrative-driven games that blend humor, heart, and strategic gameplay, Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 are a must-play.

System Requirements

Minimum:
    Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
    OS: Windows 10 or higher
    Memory: 2 GB RAM
    Graphics: 128 MB
    DirectX: Version 12
    Storage: 1 GB available space

Recommended:
    Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
    OS: Windows 10 or higher
    Memory: 4 GB RAM
    Graphics: 512MB
    Storage: 1 GB available space

Pros

Enhanced Combat Mechanics: The TP system and varied enemy designs provide engaging and strategic battles.
Improved Visuals: Upgraded sprite work and animations enrich the game's aesthetic appeal.
Deepened Narrative: Expanded storylines and character development offer a more immersive experience.
Emotional Resonance: The game effectively balances humor with poignant storytelling, eliciting a range of emotions.

Cons

Pacing Issues: Some sections, particularly in Chapter 3, may feel slower or less impactful compared to others .
Limited Save Points: Sparse save locations can lead to frustration during longer gameplay sessions.
Graphical Simplicity: While charming, the retro graphics may not appeal to all players, especially those seeking high-fidelity visuals.