Heart Machine follows up its original 2016 indie darling with an expanded action roguelike that is alluring despite its high difficulty.
Hyper Light Breaker is a challenging action roguelike with beautiful visuals and a compelling world inspired by its predecessor, Hyper Light Drifter.
While the game's procedural generation and system of "cycles" (runs) offer a unique experience, the main critique is its extreme difficulty. Players struggle against even basic enemies, leading to a repetitive cycle of death and restarting.
The review suggests that balance changes could greatly improve the game, making it more enjoyable despite its punishing nature. The emphasis on mastering dashes and parries, along with random weapon functions, presents a high skill ceiling that requires extensive practice.
The game's core loop, even in its challenging state, is addictive enough to keep players coming back. With some fine-tuning, Hyper Light Breaker has the potential to become a truly outstanding roguelike experience.
Hyper Light Breaker is a challenging action roguelike with beautiful visuals and a compelling world inspired by its predecessor, Hyper Light Drifter. While the game's procedural generation and system of "cycles" (runs) offer a unique experience, the main critique is its extreme difficulty. Players struggle against even basic enemies, leading to a repetitive cycle of death and restarting. The review suggests that balance changes could greatly improve the game, making it more enjoyable despite its punishing nature. The emphasis on mastering dashes and parries, along with random weapon functions, presents a high skill ceiling that requires extensive practice. The game's core loop, even in its challenging state, is addictive enough to keep players coming back. With some fine-tuning, Hyper Light Breaker has the potential to become a truly outstanding roguelike experience.
