Rogue Loops: A Hades-Inspired Roguelike with a Twist
The upcoming indie roguelike, Rogue Loops, is generating buzz with its striking resemblance to Hades, both visually and in its core gameplay loop. However, Rogue Loops introduces a unique mechanic that sets it apart. While a release date isn't yet confirmed, it's slated for a PC launch in early 2025. A free demo is currently available on Steam, offering a sneak peek at the action.
The roguelike genre's recent surge in popularity has led to a wave of new titles, ranging from action-packed shooters like Returnal to classic dungeon crawlers reminiscent of Hades and its early access sequel. Rogue Loops clearly draws inspiration from the latter, featuring a repeating dungeon with randomized loot and ability upgrades in a top-down perspective.
While comparisons to Hades are inevitable given its Steam trailer and demo, Rogue Loops' defining characteristic lies in its ability upgrade system. Each upgrade comes with a distinct downside, significantly impacting gameplay. These "curses," potentially lasting an entire playthrough, offer a more substantial challenge than the temporary effects of Hades' Chaos Gates.
The narrative centers on a family trapped in a deadly time loop. Players must navigate five floors of increasingly challenging dungeons, facing unique enemies and bosses. True to roguelike tradition, each run unlocks procedural upgrades, enabling players to craft diverse builds using both beneficial and detrimental boons.
Although a precise release date remains unannounced, the Steam page indicates a Q1 2025 launch. Until then, players can enjoy the free demo featuring the game's first floor. In the meantime, other excellent roguelikes like Dead Cells and Hades 2 provide ample entertainment.
