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Best Roguelike Games to Play Right Now (2024)

The roguelike genre, characterized by its procedural generation and intense difficulty, has exploded in popularity over the past decade. Gamers worldwide are hooked on the thrill of diving into a unique, unpredictable world with every playthrough. Check out our picks for the best roguelike games to play right now: The Binding of Isaac, Hades, Slay The Spire, FTL: Faster Than Light, Spelunky, and Risk of Rain 2.


The Binding of Isaac

The Binding of Isaac Gameplay (2023)

The Binding of Isaac is a true roguelike classic. Developed by Edmund McMillen, this game plunges players into the dark and twisted world of a young boy named Isaac. Fleeing from his fanatical mother, Isaac dives into the basement to face nightmarish creatures and uncover chilling secrets.


As players descend floor by floor, they collect bizarre power-ups that alter Isaac's form and abilities. The combination of these power-ups can either make you an unstoppable force or lead you to an early demise. With hundreds of items, enemies, and secrets to uncover, The Binding of Isaac offers a deep and varied experience that challenges both your skills and your psyche.

The Binding of Isaac Gameplay (2023)


Hades

Hades Gameplay (2023)

SuperGiant Games' Hades combines gripping narrative with heart-pounding action. As Zagreus, the prince of the Underworld, players strive to escape the clutches of the god Hades, battling through legions of the dead and confronting mighty Olympian gods.


Hades sets itself apart with its rich storytelling, compelling voice acting, and beautifully crafted visuals. With each attempt, players can unlock new abilities, weapons, and story arcs, making every run unique. The combination of Greek mythology, fluid combat mechanics, and ever-evolving gameplay make Hades a crowning jewel in the roguelike pantheon.

Hades Gameplay (2023)

Slay The Spire

Slay the Spire Gameplay (2023)

Slay The Spire by MegaCrit takes the roguelike formula and adds a deck-building twist. Players choose from unique characters, each boasting a distinct playstyle and card set. Ascending the spire, players encounter various enemies, challenges, and choices, strategically building their deck to combat the increasing threat.


Each floor presents a branching path, forcing players to make calculated decisions about risks and rewards. The fusion of deck-building strategy with roguelike unpredictability results in an addicting experience that beckons players for "just one more run."

Slay the Spire Gameplay (2023)

FTL: Faster Than Light

Faster Than Light Gameplay (2023)

FTL: Faster Than Light is a real-time strategy roguelike set in the vast expanse of space. Developed by Subset Games, players captain a spaceship as they jump from sector to sector, facing hostile alien fleets, treacherous events, and scarce resources.


The success in FTL hinges on strategic micromanagement. Players must manage crew assignments, upgrade systems, and engage in tactical ship-to-ship combat. The sheer variety of encounters, ship configurations, and random events ensure that every journey through the galaxy feels fresh and exhilarating.

Faster Than Light Gameplay (2023)

Spelunky

Spelunky Gameplay (2023)

Spelunky is a quintessential platformer roguelike that throws players into deep underground caverns filled with treasures, traps, and mysterious creatures. Players guide an intrepid explorer through procedurally generated levels, each more treacherous than the last.


The beauty of Spelunky lies in its perfect balance between risk and reward. Whether you're dodging boulders, outsmarting shopkeepers, or squaring off against ancient horrors, the game offers tight controls and a learning curve that rewards careful exploration and quick reflexes.

Spelunky Gameplay (2023)

Risk of Rain 2

Risk of Rain Gameplay (2023)

The sequel to the cult classic, Risk of Rain 2 by Hopoo Games, transports players to an alien world where they must fend off waves of increasingly formidable enemies. What sets this title apart is its transition from 2D to 3D, offering a new perspective on the roguelike experience.


Teaming up with friends or going solo, players select from a roster of diverse characters, each with unique abilities. As time progresses, the difficulty ramps up, pushing players to strategize, adapt, and harness powerful item combinations to survive the onslaught.

Risk of Rain Gameplay (2023)

LAN Party Splashscreen

Want to play these games in a virtual LAN party with friends? Download our free Playtest on Steam!


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