8 Roguelike Games Recommended for Genre Newcomers

Dive into the thrilling world of roguelikes with our curated selection of 8 games perfect for beginners. Experience permadeath, procedurally generated levels, and strategic gameplay!

The roguelike genre, known for its unforgiving permadeath and procedurally generated levels, can seem daunting to newcomers. But beneath the surface of seemingly endless restarts lies a captivating loop of challenging gameplay and rewarding progression. For those curious to explore this unique genre, we’ve compiled a list of 8 games perfectly suited for beginners, offering a range of styles and difficulty curves.

First up is **Hades**, a critically acclaimed action RPG that masterfully blends roguelike elements with a compelling narrative and gorgeous art style. While challenging, its combat is satisfyingly responsive, and the story unfolds through engaging interactions with the game’s colorful cast of characters. Hades provides a gentle introduction to the genre’s core mechanics without sacrificing depth or excitement.

Next, we have **Spelunky 2**, a platformer that raises the bar in terms of challenging gameplay. Its unforgiving nature teaches patience and strategic thinking. While the steep learning curve might initially discourage some, the satisfaction of overcoming its many obstacles is immensely rewarding. The vast level diversity and inventive traps ensure a unique experience with every playthrough.

For fans of deck-building games, **Slay the Spire** is an excellent choice. Its card-based combat system offers strategic depth and replayability, allowing players to experiment with various deck compositions and combat styles. The game’s art style is charming, and its relatively straightforward mechanics make it an approachable entry point to the roguelike genre.

**Enter the Gungeon** offers a blend of challenging gunplay and strategic dungeon crawling. The variety of weapons and enemies keeps gameplay fresh, and the quirky humor adds a touch of levity to the otherwise intense experience. Its tight controls and satisfying gunplay make it a joy to play, even after numerous attempts.

If you prefer something a bit more relaxing, **Into the Breach** provides a strategic puzzle experience with a roguelike twist. Its turn-based combat and focus on planning make it less reliant on fast reflexes. The game’s clean aesthetic and satisfyingly tactical gameplay are perfect for those seeking a less frantic roguelike experience.

**Dead Cells** is a fast-paced Metroidvania-roguelike hybrid. The game combines the exploration and progression of a Metroidvania with the permadeath mechanic of a roguelike. Its smooth movement and satisfying combat make up for its difficulty.

For those interested in a more traditional roguelike experience, **Binding of Isaac: Rebirth** offers a vast and complex world to explore. Its procedurally generated levels and wide array of items ensure a unique experience every time. The game is known for its challenging difficulty and disturbing visuals, but for hardcore roguelike enthusiasts, it’s a must-play.

Finally, **FTL: Faster Than Light** is a space-faring roguelike that focuses on managing resources and strategic combat. The game’s tense gameplay and constant decision-making make it a thrilling and engaging experience. Its unique blend of strategy and roguelike elements sets it apart from the rest of the genre.

This selection offers a diverse range of roguelike experiences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. So, brave adventurers, step into the unknown and discover the thrill of permadeath and procedurally generated worlds! Which one will you try first?