Roguelikes have quickly become one of the most popular types of games in recent times. It seems like there is a new title from the genre released every week. But, despite that, they have still not become mainstream like battle royale titles or first-person shooters. That might mean that many people could be wondering exactly what roguelike games even are.
Typically these are procedurally generated experiences where death is permanent. After dying, players will have to start over again, using their knowledge and skills gained from each run to progress. Roguelikes are also generally suited for playing in shorter bursts, making them easy to jump in and out of.
However, with so many top roguelike games being released, it can be difficult to know which ones to check out. This is why we decided to create a roguelike games list for PC and consoles in 2020. This should help you decide what to play. Here are the 10 best roguelikes of 2020.
Hades
Hades is arguably the best roguelike game of the year. Released on Nintendo Switch and PC, the Supergiant Games title has impressed practically every critic. The game takes place in ancient Greece and involves mythological gods from that time. As the son of the titular god, players attempt to leave the underworld. Featuring dungeon-crawler gameplay, a great story, stylish visuals, and some genuinely funny dialogue, it is a must-play. Any fans of the genre simply have to check it out.
Spelunky 2
The original Spelunky was one of the first games to popularize the roguelike genre. The long-awaited sequel finally released in September 2020 for PC and PlayStation 4. It includes the same basic gameplay as its predecessor. However, almost every element has been expanded and updated. The action now takes place on the moon, with players looking for their missing family. Every area is now packed even more densely with items, traps, and treasure.
Risk of Rain 2
The first Risk of Rain game was a 2D roguelike that managed to attract a dedicated fan base. However, developer Hopoo Games transitioned to 3D graphics for the sequel. Although fans might have had some concerns about this, it turned out to be a great decision. Featuring hack-and-slash gameplay, the game is largely a race against time. Players have to quickly get through each area before the teleport gate disappears.
Noita
Noita is a unique roguelike game that has a deep focus on physics. Players are tasked with exploring a cave system filled with mysterious enemies. It has become one of the best roguelike games on Steam in 2020. It involves casting magical spells to survive, with every pixel simulated in real-time. The gameplay revolves around using elemental effects on the world, melting, burning, or freezing a path. This unique twist on the genre makes it a refreshing experience to try out.
Neon Abyss
Nothing about Neon Abyss is all that innovative. It is not a game that is aiming to be groundbreaking. Instead, the title is designed to be the pinnacle of the roguelike genre. Set in a futuristic nightclub, it features a huge array of strange weapons and bizarre items. The basic mechanics all work incredibly well and the gameplay is just plain fun. Every run is also very distinctive thanks to the sheer number of interactive choices.
Gunfire Reborn
Unlike most roguelike games, Gunfire Reborn is a first-person shooter. Despite the fact that it is only available as an early access title, it is in a very playable state. The gameplay is largely focused on creating powerful builds to make it through tough boss battles. It also stands out for its four-player co-op, allowing multiple users to team up together. For anyone looking for something a bit different from the genre, Gunfire Reborn is a perfect choice.
ScourgeBringer
ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced platformer that features traditional roguelike gameplay. Forced to confront her past, Kyhra fights her way through an army of machines that have enslaved humanity. With stylish graphics and frantic combat, along with tricky platforming sections, it offers a unique take on the genre. The game also has lots of lore to explore, with hidden journals and secrets to uncover.
Undermine
Undermine is a roguelike game that combines the traditional gameplay of the genre with Minecraft. Players not only have to avoid obstacles and fight enemies they also have to collect resources. Sent into a mine shaft to search for hidden treasures, it has an emphasis on gathering as much loot as possible. That’s because you keep a portion of gathered treasure after death to buy permanent upgrades. Ultimately, this makes Undermine a more casual and forgiving experience.
Dicey Dungeons
Dicey Dungeons is the latest game from Terry Cavanagh. Available on PC in 2019, it is finally coming to consoles in 2020. It sees the player taking control of a giant walking dice as they try to escape endless dungeons. Fast-paced and filled with interesting mechanics, it is a game that you can easily spend dozens of hours in. By collecting loot and defeating enemies, players can slowly get closer to taking down Lady Luck.
Approaching Infinity
Approaching Infinity is a roguelike set in a futuristic sci-fi world. Built specifically to appeal to new players and advanced veterans of the genre, it is highly accessible. Tasked with building a crew to survive space exploration, you must venture into a procedurally generated universe. For instance, that includes exploring planets, investigating shipwrecks, and scouting out dangerous locations. Moreover, the gameplay also involves trading with other characters and completing a variety of quests.
What are your top roguelike games? Are you waiting for the new roguelike games to be released? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Category: Guides
