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2024 has been an amazing year for roguelikes
The past 12 months have shown the world that a roguelike can be almost anything. This year’s crop of games has not only showcased the genre’s versatility but also demonstrated its staying power and adaptability.
It all started with Hades II, which has already proven itself to be the perfect Steam Deck game. While I haven’t had a chance to delve into it as much as I would have liked, I’m excited to spend more time with it in the coming year. Shogun Showdown is another title that caught my attention, and its ability to make you feel like a genius by showing you the future is a testament to the genre’s capacity for innovation.
On the multiplayer front, Windblown has set a new standard for co-op gameplay. I was blown away by how well it integrated friends into the experience, making it an absolute must-play for anyone who enjoys roguelikes with others.
But it wasn’t just the big-name titles that impressed me; several smaller-scale projects have also made significant waves in the industry. Vampire Survivors, which has received two major crossover DLCs – one with Contra and another with Castlevania – is a great example of this. I’m eager to dive back into its world and explore new content.
Another notable mention goes to Halls of Torment, an early access title that combines the magic of Vampire Survivors with an old-school Diablo aesthetic. Its departure from early access has piqued my interest, and I’m curious to see what changes have been made since my initial playthrough.
Furthermore, it’s heartening to see big publishers like Ubisoft jump into the fray with titles like Rogue Prince of Persia, which takes classic Prince of Persia action and platforming and gives it a roguelike twist. This shows that even the most established names in the industry are recognizing the potential of the genre.
Lastly, Rogue, another early access title, deserves mention for its significant updates since its launch in May. The addition of new biomes, bosses, and art styles is an excellent example of how developers can keep their games fresh and exciting over time. Its connection to Dead Cells through Evil Empire – a studio that has worked on many Dead Cells updates and DLCs – instills confidence that it will reach its full potential.
In conclusion, 2024 has been nothing short of phenomenal for roguelikes. The sheer variety and quality on offer have shown that the genre is more than just a fleeting trend; it’s here to stay.
Source: www.theverge.com
