The Best Modern Rogue like Dungeon Crawlers for Newcomers and Veterans Alike

Key Takeaways

1. Modern dungeon crawlers blend accessibility with classic challenges, opening the genre to both new players and experienced gamers.
2. Roguelike mechanics enhance replayability by offering unique gameplay loops and progression systems that keep players coming back.
3. Top dungeon crawlers offer diverse gameplay styles, from narrative-driven to co-op-focused experiences, catering to a wide audience.

Dungeon crawling has established itself as a popular sub-genre in video games, especially within RPGs. Drawing inspiration from tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, dungeon crawlers feature exploration, loot, and hack-and-slash gameplay, challenging players to venture deep into dangerous labyrinths. Influential titles like Rogue and Multi-User Dungeons (MUDs) cemented the genre’s gameplay loop, making it a staple of RPGs.

In recent years, modern roguelike dungeon crawlers have adapted this classic formula to appeal to a wider audience. These games offer everything from challenging strategic play to accessible mechanics, making them suitable for seasoned fans and newcomers alike. Here’s a look at some standout games in the genre, each with unique twists that add to the dungeon-crawling legacy.

1. ENDLESS Dungeon: Tower Defense Meets Twin-Stick Action

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: October 19, 2023
Developer: Amplitude Studios

ENDLESS Dungeon is an accessible twin-stick shooter that incorporates tower defense mechanics within a dungeon-crawling framework. Players face waves of enemies while managing resources and building defenses, resulting in a gameplay loop that’s both fast-paced and strategic. Unlike its predecessor, Dungeon of the ENDLESS, this installment focuses on accessible, action-oriented gameplay over intricate strategy, making it ideal for new players.

Fans of co-op and twin-stick shooters will enjoy the easy-to-learn mechanics, especially with the option to team up online. The game’s roguelite progression system further enhances replayability, making every run a chance to improve skills and strategies.

2. Guild of Dungeoneering: Deckbuilding with a Dungeon Twist

Platform(s): PC
Released: July 14, 2015
Developer: Gambrinous

Guild of Dungeoneering combines roguelike mechanics with deckbuilding, allowing players to construct dungeons rather than simply exploring them. The goal is to lay out the dungeon path while ensuring your “dungeoneer” survives the journey. Although dungeoneers face permanent death, the game’s forgiving nature allows players to easily recruit new adventurers, making it accessible for beginners.

With its lighthearted approach, Guild of Dungeoneering is an ideal starting point for those new to the genre, as it offers a straightforward entry into the world of roguelike dungeon crawlers without overwhelming complexity.

3. Crawl: Retro Arcade Action in a Dungeon Crawler

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: April 11, 2017
Developer: Powerhoof

Designed for local multiplayer, Crawl brings a competitive twist to dungeon crawling, allowing one player to control the hero while others take on the roles of monsters. When the hero dies, the killer becomes the next hero, creating a unique gameplay loop that’s constantly changing.

With nostalgic pixel art and retro music, Crawl channels the energy of classic arcade games while offering a fresh twist on dungeon crawling. The game’s straightforward hack-and-slash mechanics make it an engaging option for players who enjoy fast-paced, cooperative experiences.

4. Hades: A Story-Driven Roguelite Adventure

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: September 17, 2020
Developer: Supergiant Games

While not the easiest game on this list, Hades redefines accessibility in roguelike games with its narrative-driven approach and meta-progression system. Players step into the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, on a mission to escape the Underworld. With each attempt, players unlock upgrades and story elements, making every run meaningful.

The game’s hack-and-slash combat is both challenging and satisfying, with an art style and soundtrack that add to the immersive experience. Hades is a must-play for those seeking a roguelite with a strong narrative and replayability.

5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate: Co-Op Roguelite Adventure

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: July 17, 2024
Developer: Super Evil Megacorp

Inspired by games like Hades, Splintered Fate brings a fresh take on dungeon crawling by introducing cooperative play featuring the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Players can team up as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, or Raphael, facing iconic villains in roguelike battles while collecting meta-currencies to boost abilities.

The TMNT theme adds a nostalgic layer for fans, while intuitive combat mechanics and engaging animations make it accessible to players of all levels. However, the game’s reliance on Hades-like mechanics might make it feel familiar for those deeply versed in the genre.

6. Tiny Rogues: Minimalist Dungeon Crawling for Beginners

Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Released: September 23, 2022
Developer: RubyDev

In Tiny Rogues, players explore dungeons in a top-down bullet-hell environment, focusing on dodging enemy attacks and managing stamina. This minimalist approach keeps the gameplay easy to follow, yet the dodge mechanic adds a level of skill and strategy to the experience.

While the visuals are simple, Tiny Rogues is ideal for newcomers, with a roguelite structure that ensures mistakes aren’t punishing. The game’s low-stress decision-making and fast-paced action make it an enjoyable entry point for anyone curious about dungeon crawlers.

7. Going Under: Colorful Combat in Corporate Dungeons

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: September 24, 2020
Developer: Aggro Crab

Set in a satirical corporate world, Going Under tasks players with battling through dungeons filled with office supplies and quirky foes. This action roguelite encourages experimentation with various weapons, which break after frequent use, emphasizing player skill over luck.

With its vibrant art style, Going Under offers a fresh perspective on dungeon crawling. The game’s humor and unique setting make it a standout for those looking for a lighthearted yet challenging roguelike experience.

8. For The King: A Strategy RPG with Dungeon Crawling

Platform(s): PC, Consoles
Released: April 19, 2018
Developer: Ironoak Games

For The King combines hexagonal map exploration with roguelike dungeon-crawling mechanics, offering a strategic approach to the genre. Players navigate an overworld, accept quests, and face turn-based battles, where teamwork and careful planning are essential.

The game’s blend of RPG and roguelike elements makes it appealing to strategy enthusiasts, while the relatively simple combat keeps it accessible. For those who enjoy tactical gameplay in a fantasy setting, For The King is an excellent choice.

Conclusion: The Evolving Appeal of Dungeon Crawlers

Dungeon crawlers have come a long way from their tabletop origins, evolving into a diverse genre with something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to action-packed shooters like ENDLESS Dungeon, strategic RPGs like For The King, or narrative-driven adventures like Hades, modern roguelike dungeon crawlers offer endless exploration and excitement.

These games illustrate how developers are adapting the dungeon-crawling genre to reach broader audiences, combining accessibility with classic mechanics. From local co-op arcade experiences to minimalist roguelikes, there’s no shortage of dungeon crawlers to explore in today’s gaming world.

FAQs

Q: What makes dungeon crawlers unique compared to other RPGs?
A: Dungeon crawlers typically emphasize exploration, loot collection, and progressing through maze-like dungeons filled with enemies and traps. They often have a repetitive, challenge-focused gameplay loop, creating high replay value.

Q: Are roguelike and roguelite games the same?
A: Not exactly. Roguelike games adhere strictly to the original Rogue’s mechanics (such as procedural generation and permanent death). Roguelites borrow some of these features but usually offer permanent progression, making them more accessible.

Q: Which dungeon crawler is best for beginners?
A: Guild of Dungeoneering and Tiny Rogues are great choices for beginners due to their straightforward mechanics and low-stakes learning curves. Going Under also offers a fun, accessible experience with its unique setting and intuitive gameplay.

Q: Can dungeon crawlers be played cooperatively?
A: Yes! Many modern dungeon crawlers, like ENDLESS Dungeon and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate, offer co-op modes, allowing players to team up for a shared experience.

Q: Do dungeon crawlers always involve fantasy themes?
A: While fantasy settings are common, dungeon crawlers can take place in various environments. Going Under, for instance, is set in a corporate world, and For The King mixes classic fantasy with strategic RPG elements.