If you’re venturing into the world of action roguelikes, Steam offers a treasure trove of options that will keep you hooked with their intense gameplay, strategic depth, and rewarding progression systems.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, the following list includes some of the best action roguelikes available on Steam, perfect for any level of experience.
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Table of Contents
1. Vampire Survivors
Release Date: October 2022
Price: $4.99
Player Score: 99% from 230,650 votes
Vampire Survivors is a standout in the action roguelike genre, offering a simple yet addictive gameplay loop. Players face hordes of monsters in a top-down arena, wielding a variety of weapons to survive as long as possible. The game’s accessibility and low price make it an excellent entry point for beginners, while its depth ensures seasoned players stay engaged. Discover exciting insights into popular roguelike games and strategies by visiting scheels.org for engaging content and gaming tips.
2. Hades
Release Date: September 2020
Price: $24.99
Player Score: 98% from 260,017 votes
Hades has become a hallmark of the roguelike genre, combining fast-paced combat with a rich narrative. You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, attempting to escape the underworld. The game’s unique aspect is its storytelling, which unfolds as you progress, making each death feel like part of a larger narrative. The tight controls and variety of weapons and powers provide endless replayability.
3. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
Release Date: November 2014
Price: $14.99
Player Score: 98% from 288,584 votes
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a dark, yet humorous roguelike that offers a blend of dungeon crawling and bullet hell mechanics. Each run is different, with a wide variety of items and power-ups that drastically change gameplay. Its high difficulty level and randomization make it perfect for players who enjoy a challenge.
4. Deep Rock Galactic
Release Date: May 2020
Price: $29.99
Player Score: 97% from 290,060 votes
While primarily a co-op shooter, Deep Rock Galactic features strong roguelike elements. Players control dwarves mining in procedurally generated caves, battling enemies and collecting resources. The game’s cooperative gameplay encourages teamwork and strategy, making it a great choice for those looking to play with friends.
5. HoloCure – Save the Fans!
Release Date: August 2023
Price: Free
Player Score: 99% from 29,776 votes
HoloCure is a charming pixel art roguelike that’s free to play. Players must save fans from various enemies using different characters, each with unique abilities. Its simplicity and engaging mechanics make it an excellent choice for newcomers to the genre.
6. Dead Cells
Release Date: August 2018
Price: $24.99
Player Score: 97% from 152,187 votes
Dead Cells combines Metroidvania-style exploration with roguelike mechanics. You control a reanimated corpse, fighting through procedurally generated levels. The game’s fluid combat, diverse weapon choices, and persistent progression system ensure that each run feels fresh and rewarding.
7. Risk of Rain 2
Release Date: August 2020
Price: $24.99
Player Score: 96% from 273,754 votes
Risk of Rain 2 transitions the original’s 2D gameplay into a fully 3D environment. Players must survive on alien planets, collecting items that stack to create powerful synergies. Its multiplayer mode adds another layer of excitement, allowing for cooperative play.
8. Brotato
Release Date: June 2023
Price: $4.99
Player Score: 97% from 75,612 votes
In Brotato, you play as a potato wielding multiple weapons against waves of aliens. The game’s humorous premise and strategic depth make it a standout in the genre. Its accessible price and straightforward mechanics are perfect for those new to roguelikes.
9. Crab Champions
Release Date: April 2023
Price: $9.99
Player Score: 98% from 21,799 votes
Crab Champions offers a unique twist on the roguelike formula, featuring crabs battling in fast-paced, action-packed environments. Its quirky charm and engaging gameplay make it a must-try for fans of the genre.
10. Enter the Gungeon
Release Date: April 2016
Price: $14.99
Player Score: 96% from 79,451 votes
Enter the Gungeon blends bullet hell mechanics with roguelike progression. Players navigate through procedurally generated levels, collecting an arsenal of guns and battling waves of enemies. The game’s challenging yet rewarding gameplay is perfect for those who enjoy high-stakes action.
11. Ocean Keeper
Release Date: Planned for July 2024.
Price: Not yet set. Between $10 and $16
Player Score: Mostly positive from alpha testers
Steam page
RetroStyle Games, an independent game development studio based in Kyiv, Ukraine, is gearing up to release “Ocean Keeper,” an exciting new roguelike survival game. Set to debut its demo during the June Steam Fest 2024, Ocean Keeper promises a unique underwater adventure that combines strategic depth with intense action.
In Ocean Keeper, you play as a team of space pirates exploring a mysterious underwater planet. Your mission is to uncover the secrets of this aquatic world and retrieve an ancient artifact. The game features a distinctive blend of exploration and combat, requiring players to navigate the ocean depths using a giant robot spider. This mech can be upgraded with various weapons and tools, which are essential for surviving encounters with fearsome sea monsters and other underwater threats
Tips for Beginners
- Embrace Death: Roguelikes are designed around dying and learning. Each run will teach you something new, whether it’s how enemies behave or which items work best together.
- Experiment with Builds: Part of the fun is trying different combinations of items and abilities. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what suits your playstyle.
- Learn Enemy Patterns: Many roguelikes, especially those with bullet hell elements, rely on understanding enemy behavior. Take your time to learn their patterns and react accordingly.
- Use the Community: The roguelike community is vast and supportive. Look for guides, forums, and videos to help you get better.
- Start with Easier Games: If you’re new, start with games like Vampire Survivors or Brotato, which are more accessible but still offer depth and challenge.
Conclusion
The action roguelike genre is thriving on Steam, offering a wide range of experiences for every type of player. Whether you prefer intense bullet hell gameplay, deep narrative-driven stories, or cooperative multiplayer adventures, there’s a game on this list for you. Dive in, embrace the challenge, and enjoy the unique thrill that only roguelikes can provide.
By exploring these titles and following the tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the exciting world of action roguelikes. Happy gaming!
