Get ready to die and die again (and again). The allure of the roguelike genre lies in its punishing challenge and endless replayability. Each run throws unique twists and dangers your way, demanding tactical brilliance and a touch of luck. If you’re someone in the market for the best roguelike games keep reading as we talk about the most difficult of the lot right here!
1. Hades
- Release Date: December 6, 2018
- Platform(s): macOS, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, iOS
I mean, what do you expect? Hades has long been known as one of the best roguelike games out there. While the recently released Hades 2 is great, the original tops it any day. Hades is more than just a dungeon crawler that offers thrilling action that keeps you hooked.
The Olympian lore game relies on Zagreus, the son of Hades as he tries to escape the Underworld. Every death, though punishing, fuels your progress and unlocks new boons for future attempts. With its addictive gameplay and rich narrative, Hades masterfully blends challenges and rewards.
2. Spelunky 2
- Release Date: September 15, 2020
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S
A sequel to a great roguelike, Spelunky 2 does not disappoint. This roguelike masterpiece will punish you relentlessly, but leave you begging for more. Procedurally generated levels and permadeath keep every run fresh, while the tight controls and vast array of items ensure mastery is a rewarding, never-ending quest.
Whether you crave a quick challenge or a sprawling adventure, Spelunky 2 offers an unmatched roguelike experience. There is no denying that Spelunky 2 is one of the hardest video games and also one of the best roguelike games out there.
3. Slay the Spire
- Release Date: November 14, 2017
- Platform(s): Windows, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, iOS, Android
Ascend the spire, outsmart foes, and forge an unstoppable deck in Slay the Spire, a roguelike that hooks you with its deceptively simple card play and explodes with strategic depth.
Every climb brings a new adventure with automatically created levels, while thrilling deckbuilding lets you craft unique combos to conquer enemies and bosses. Prepare to die, learn, and return for another addictive run up the treacherous spire.
4. Cult of the Lamb
- Release Date: June 10, 2022
- Platform(s): macOS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
Cult of the Lamb delivers a delightful one-two-punch combo. Conquer randomized dungeons to bolster your flock, then return to your base to manage your loyal followers, all wrapped in a charmingly dark aesthetic.
While the game might lack the punishing difficulty of some roguelikes, the unique blend of genres keeps things fresh and engaging. And did we tell you its by Devolver Digital? That automatically makes it one of the best roguelike games of all time!
5. Darkest Dungeon
- Release Date: February 3, 2015
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PS4, PlayStation Vita, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One
In the heart of gothic horror lies a challenge unlike any other. Darkest Dungeon grips you with its punishing but rewarding gameplay. You delve into monstrous crypts, strategize against horrifying foes, and manage the mental stress of your heroes.
While not a traditional roguelike with permadeath, Darkest Dungeon offers a deep, strategic experience that will test your resolve and leave you wanting more. Gothic vibes anyone?
6. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
- Release Date: November 4, 2014
- Platform(s): Linux, Microsoft Windows, OS X, PS5, PS4, PlayStation Vita, New Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, Xbox One, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S
Descend into the depths of despair with The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, a roguelike that transforms tears into triumphs. Every run offers a unique dungeon layout and item combinations, guaranteeing a fresh challenge and an addictive scramble for survival.
With a deformed charm and endless replayability, Rebirth will keep you crying (tears of joy, most likely) for more. Truly one of the best roguelike game materials.
7. Codename: Ocean Keeper
- Release Date: June, 2024 (Demo)
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Xbox Series X|S
Codename: Ocean Keeper plunges you into an underwater world where you’ll scavenge for resources in labyrinthine caves, then pilot a giant mech to combat ferocious deep-sea creatures. This roguelike offers a unique blend of exploration, combat, and constant upgrades, making every dive a thrilling test of your resourcefulness and piloting skills.
Naturally not very common, this mech meets mining combination makes Ocean Keeper one of the best roguelike games out there. However, do note that the full game is due to be out soon so you’ll have to tide over with the demo.
8. Dead Cells
- Release Date: August 7, 2018
- Platform(s): Windows, Linux, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, iOS, Android, PlayStation 5
Anyone who has played any of the best roguelike games will already know about classics like Dead Cells. This roguelike is equal parts frantic combat and strategic exploration. If you love the latest Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (review) Metroidvania experience, then this is a must-try for you.
Conquer sprawling, ever-shifting dungeons with a vast arsenal of weapons and abilities. Each death unlocks permanent upgrades, pushing you to master your combat skills and unravel the prison’s deadly secrets. Dead Cells offers a vicious yet rewarding cycle of death and improvement, making it a must-play for roguelike enthusiasts.
9. PlateUp!
- Release Date: August 4, 2022
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Geforce Now, Windows, Xbox Series X|S
Whip up a recipe for chaos in PlateUp! a roguelike restaurant sim that includes frantic cooking and strategic kitchen design. Conquer procedurally generated kitchens, build efficient workflows with conveyor belts and upgrades, and keep a steady stream of dishes flowing to satisfy demanding customers.
With permanent progression unlocking new recipes and abilities, every culinary catastrophe becomes a delicious step towards becoming a restaurant tycoon. While PlateUp! might be one of the best roguelike games, it’s still hard to digest the fact that there are things like procedurally generated kitchens.
10. Don’t Starve
- Release Date: April 23, 2013
- Platform(s): Android, iOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, OS X, PS3, PS4, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Don’t Starve throws you into a quirky, unforgiving wilderness. With procedurally generated landscapes, permadeath, and a constant battle against hunger and the elements, every playthrough offers a unique and thrilling (or terrifying) test of your survival skills. Master crafting, appease the environment, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll last a few nights.
11. Enter the Gungeon
- Release Date: April 5, 2016
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, Linux, GeForce Now, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, macOS
Forget whimsical platformers, Enter the Gungeon throws you headfirst into bullet-ridden chaos for a gloriously punishing roguelike experience. With a vast arsenal of wacky guns, synergies to discover, and secrets to unlock, every death becomes a stepping stone towards conquering the Gungeon and mastering the art of the perfect dodge roll.
All the elements with crisp gameplay make Enter the Gungeon one of the best roguelike games on Xbox and PlayStation.
12. Against the Storm
- Release Date: October 18, 2021
- Platform(s): GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Thrive or perish under relentless storms! Against the Storm blends city building with roguelike thrills. Each run throws unique resources, structures, and challenges your way. Master improvisation, adapt your strategy, and conquer the elements to survive the onslaught. The feel of fantasy with all the challenging elements is a must-try for any roguelike lover.
13. Voidigo
- Release Date: February 25, 2021
- Platform(s): Windows
Unleash chaos in Voidigo, one of the best PC roguelike games that explodes with vibrant action and boss battles. Master the art of dodging bullets and stomping enemies while wielding an arsenal of wild weapons. Fleeing bosses and strategic powerups keep the gameplay fresh, making each run through the void a thrilling fight for survival.
14. Rogue Legacy 2
- Release Date: August 18, 2020
- Platform(s): Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4
Rogue Legacy 2 is a great sequel that has inspired recent class roguelikes such as the 2024 release The Rogue Prince of Persia (review). The game boasts tight controls, a wealth of varied classes and traits, and a satisfying progression system that unlocks new abilities and areas with each death.
Whether you master swordplay with the Knight or rain down spells as the Mage, you’ll conquer a sprawling castle filled with secrets and challenging bosses.
15. Noita
- Release Date: September 24, 2019
- Platform(s): Windows
Dive into the chaotic world of Noita, one of the best roguelike games on PC where every pixel is simulated, creating a destructible and delightfully unpredictable world. Craft your own spell combinations by mixing and matching wands, leading to explosive victories or hilarious self-inflicted demise.
With its ever-changing environments and deep experimentation, Noita offers a unique and endlessly challenging adventure for roguelike veterans and newcomers alike.
Now you know the best roguelike games you should try out in 2024! Have any more suggestions for us? Let us know in the comments below!
