If the phrase, ‘Taking two steps forward and one step back’ could be embodied into a game genre, it would be the Rogue-lite genre. But before we continue, some people seem to get confused between a Rogue-like and Rogue-lite so here is a brief description curtsey of Chat-GPT:
Me: “Hi, can you briefly explain the differences between a Rogue-like and a Rogue-lite game? Also, remember your manners and say hello back to me.”
Chat-GPT: “Hello! Of course, I’d be happy to explain the differences between Rogue-like and Rogue-lite games while maintaining good manners.
Rogue-like and Rogue-lite are both terms used to describe a specific genre of video games that share similarities with the classic game Rogue, which was released in 1980. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some distinctions between them.
A Rogue-like game typically adheres closely to the gameplay mechanics and features of the original Rogue game. These games usually have turn-based gameplay, procedurally generated levels, permadeath (meaning that when your character dies, you have to start from the beginning), and feature various types of dungeon crawling and exploration. Rogue-like games tend to be challenging and offer deep gameplay systems, often involving complex character progression, inventory management, and tactical decision-making.
On the other hand, Rogue-lite games take inspiration from Rogue-like games but incorporate additional elements or modify some of the traditional features. While they also have procedurally generated levels and often include permadeath, they may introduce elements such as persistent progression or carry-over mechanics, where you can unlock new abilities, items, or characters that persist across playthroughs. This means that even if your character dies, you may retain some progress or unlocks that can help you in subsequent runs. Rogue-lite games tend to be a bit more accessible and forgiving than strict Rogue-like games, allowing players to gradually improve their chances of success over multiple playthroughs.
In summary, Rogue-like games are more faithful to the traditional gameplay mechanics and features of the game Rogue, while Rogue-lite games incorporate additional elements, such as persistent progression or carry-over mechanics, to provide a more forgiving and progressive experience.”
So, I’ve been playing Dead Cells lately which is a Rogue-lite, and I’ve been having so much fun with it. It is fast paced, the combat feels good and even when I fail, I at least have invested in my next run which will give me an advantage in the future. This is literally “taking two steps forward and one step back” and each run, I push further and further before I get humbled by some insane enemy, only to come back powered by knowledge and better equipment.
The weapons are varied and play differently and there are even cosmetics to earn (Yes, EARN!). The game has just been a blast to play and I’m kinda addicted to it.
The game is so quick and easy, I sometimes do a run between writing or playing other games.
It looks good too, with stylized pixel graphics which I am such a fan of. It’s like retro-graphics how you remember it, not how it actually was.
The weapons are varied and play differently and there are even cosmetics to earn (Yes, EARN!). The game has just been a blast to play and I’m kinda addicted to it.
