The most captivating PC roguelite games continue to captivate players long after their initial release due to their engaging and addictive gameplay. With the ever-increasing popularity of this genre, it seems that every week brings the launch of a fresh and thrilling game, often characterized by its challenging nature.
We’ve compiled a list of exceptional PC roguelite games to assist you in selecting your next favorite from the multitude of options available. Our recommendations encompass both well-known titles and recently released gems. As game developers blend diverse styles to entice new gamers, you can rest assured that there’s a wealth of top-notch PC gaming experiences spanning various categories. So, without further ado, here are our endorsed PC roguelite games.
Hades
In Supergiant’s latest creation, you assume the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades and ruler of the underworld. This is an intense isometric hack-and-slash game teeming with formidable adversaries.
Hades demonstrates the narrative potential inherent in the cyclical structure of the roguelike genre. It weaves together procedural runs with a captivating storyline and endearing characters. With each unsuccessful attempt, you find yourself resurrected in the House of Hades, your home, where your former acquaintances and family eagerly await your latest conversation.
As you progress through each run, you’ll uncover more about these characters and even have encounters with your divine Olympic relatives, who provide you with experimental enhancements. These bickering deities shine as the true stars of the game, thanks to their exquisite artwork and fully-voiced dialogue. Hades stands out as one of the finest narrative-driven games on PC and an exceptional example of the roguelite genre.
The creator describes it as a dungeon crawler featuring larger-than-life characters and a strong emphasis on replayability. Hades initially became available on the Epic Games Store before its Steam release in September 2020.
Dead Cells
The high-speed hack-and-slash action of Dead Cells is absolutely irresistible. In this game, you assume the role of a headless and death-defying experiment who manages to break free from their prison cell, embarking on a journey to dismantle a colossal castle, from the depths of its dungeons to the heights of its towers.
One unique aspect of Dead Cells is the ability to retain improvements and upgrades across different runs, creating a sense of continuous growth. Consequently, even facing a challenging boss battle that sends you back to the starting point isn’t as disheartening as it might be in other roguelite games for PC. It actually makes embarking on a fresh run more enticing. While Dead Cells remains a formidable challenge, the elimination of the fear of losing everything significantly reduces its intimidation factor. Moreover, the game’s post-launch support has been exemplary.
The meta progression system in Dead Cells, akin to that found in other PC roguelite games mentioned here, is a valuable aid for less experienced players. Not all upgrades yield immediate benefits, but having a healing potion at your disposal is always a wise choice.
Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2, despite its whimsical visual style, can both vex and entertain players. This sequel surpasses its acclaimed predecessor with an impressive range of gameplay possibilities. Its repetitive structure has allowed Mossmouth to refine the Spelunky formula to a state of near-perfection.
In this game, you assume the role of the daughter of the original protagonist as she embarks on a lunar quest to locate her parents. Your journey requires adept platforming and puzzle-solving skills. Spelunky 2 stands out due to its adaptability, but even minor missteps can lead to chaos. Remarkably, even after investing hundreds of hours, players continue to discover new facets of the game.
Into the Breach
Prepare to face the menacing Vek army in Into the Breach, a turn-based strategy game that pits you against these formidable foes. To repel their relentless assaults, you’ll need to deploy powerful mechs. The Vek pose a significant threat to your team, so you must make careful decisions to ensure their survival.
As you journey through the game’s various islands, you can rescue humanity from impending doom by acquiring superior weaponry and skilled pilots to join your cause. While Into the Breach offers a relatively straightforward gameplay experience compared to other strategy games, don’t expect anything less than a challenging yet frequently gratifying adventure.
Noita
Noita stands out as an exceptional PC roguelite game that has carved out its own niche within the broader roguelike genre, emphasizing physics to an extraordinary degree. Armed with an array of spells, you must navigate a labyrinthine network of caverns deep below the surface to stay alive. Since the levels are procedurally generated, each playthrough promises a fresh and exhilarating experience, as is customary in a roguelite.
Noita expertly captures the heart-pounding trepidation that accompanies exploration into uncharted territories, where the behaviors of local adversaries remain a mystery. Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey as you uncover innovative techniques for manipulating the various liquids and substances that populate this enigmatic world.
Risk of Rain 2
Risk of Rain 2, a sequel that transitioned from 2D to 3D visuals, stands as a remarkable follow-up. While enhancing upon the original, it successfully retains its distinctive atmosphere. Risk of Rain has always managed its challenges by escalating them to greater heights. Whether you have a strong character build or have spent an hour in the initial zone, the game’s escalating difficulties will eventually catch up with you.
As with other roguelite games, your skills and knowledge improve with each playthrough. In Risk of Rain 2, you’re racing against the clock to locate a shrine for teleportation. However, each shrine summons a boss to engage you in combat. The thrilling danger of Risk of Rain 2 makes it a must-play action-roguelite, particularly when enjoyed with friends on any gaming platform.
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
The original version of The Binding of Isaac was initially launched in 2011, and its sequel, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, carries on the legacy. If you’ve ever encountered the peculiar ambiance of a Binding of Isaac game, whether through actual gameplay or by watching others, you’re already acquainted with its unique essence. You assume the role of a young boy trapped in his basement, confronted with a series of horrifying predicaments while striving to elude becoming a sacrifice at the hands of his mother.
With each new installment in the Binding of Isaac series, the experience remains consistently enjoyable. This is thanks to its distinctively grotesque bosses, a high degree of randomness, and the substantial replay value it consistently delivers.
Cult of the Lamb
Cult of the Lamb, our latest roguelite venture, combines elements of charm and malevolence. Step into the shoes of an endearing cult leader and guide your devoted followers in their battle against the sinister forces that have ensnared them within a post-apocalyptic world. In Cult of the Lamb, each chamber, weapon, and reward is procedurally generated, leaving your fate to the whims of chance.
However, unlike conventional roguelites, Cult of the Lamb also incorporates elements of a management simulation. Beyond combatting demons, you’ll find yourself responsible for maintaining order within your cult. This involves recruiting new members and ensuring the well-being of everyone under your leadership.
Darkest Dungeon
The Darkest Dungeon is an exercise in unrelenting suffering. It’s a game that manages to be both captivating and deeply distressing, pushing you to the brink of despair. Its visual aesthetics are imposing, its challenges ruthlessly unforgiving, and its tone is relentlessly grim. As you delve into its depths in search of treasure, it excels at instilling a profound sense of unease.
While turn-based combat against the eerie denizens of each dungeon is a core component, your party members are far from expendable pawns. The true source of The Darkest Dungeon’s malevolence lies in the toll it exacts on your heroes, both physically and mentally. The very real threat of debilitating illnesses or witnessing the gruesome demise of a comrade can send any adventurer spiraling towards an early grave. Thus, it becomes paramount that you carefully weigh the consequences of every decision you make. For those who are masochistically inclined, the sequel to The Darkest Dungeon is currently in early access on the Epic Games Store, offering even more torment for those willing to brave it.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the enigmatic allure of PC roguelite games lies in their ability to provide endless adventures, each unique and challenging. These games offer a blend of strategy, skill, and randomness that keeps players coming back for more. The sense of progression and discovery, combined with the constant threat of permadeath, creates an addictive formula that captivates gamers. As the roguelite genre continues to evolve and expand, it offers a diverse range of experiences for those seeking thrilling and unpredictable journeys through digital worlds.
Also Read: Top Music Games to Rock Your World in 2023
