10 Best 3D Roguelikes You Need To Play

In the realm of video games, the Roguelike genre has distinct characteristics that set it apart. Its devoted followers are quick to correct you if they believe you’ve mislabeled a game as a Roguelike when it’s more accurately described as a Roguelite, particularly in 3D versions.

3D roguelike games are scarce primarily due to two reasons. Firstly, creating compelling, randomly generated content for these games can be quite challenging. Secondly, adding another dimension to the mix makes this task even more complex and demanding.

In my opinion, it doesn’t really matter if we argue over the specific differences between a Roguelite and a Roguelike game. However, for the sake of this compilation, games with less persistent progression and more emphasis on three-dimensional spaces are preferred.

Here are ten outstanding, captivating 3D Roguelike games I discovered. Each one is worth checking out, even if a few exceptional titles appear lower down on the list. This anomaly arises due to them not being entirely random in their gameplay mechanics.

10. Returnal

Burning Through

Experimentally, I would like to emphasize that “Returnal” is not your typical video game, but bear in mind that its permanent progression means you’ll likely spend around 30 to 40 hours with this $60 title. This duration might seem short compared to other games, potentially deterring some players, however, I wholeheartedly recommend it due to compelling reasons that I’ll elucidate.

The game offers intricately designed, captivating surroundings along with bullet-heaven aspects that often require quick reflexes to avoid a barrage of energy projectiles, allowing you to narrowly escape being hit.

Among the top-tier, high-budget roguelike games available, there’s one standout title that immerses players in a grimy, unsettling, and thrilling universe: Returnal. If you’re seeking an experience to engulf you in a world brimming with grit, unease, and intensity, then this game is tailor-made for you.

As a gamer, I’ve been diving into this game, but there are a few nagging issues that have me hesitant: the multiplayer feels somewhat lackluster and the replay value seems virtually non-existent. Yet, it’s got an undeniable unique charm, making it worth giving a try as a 3D roguelite.

9. Hades

Isometric, Vaguely 3D

By now, you’re likely familiar with Hades, a game known for its immersive, speedy gameplay. Although it falls under the category of roguelites, it offers an option to play as if it were a traditional roguelike, giving you more control over your gaming experience.

This item is primarily included due to its arguably three-dimensional nature. It features a fixed isometric viewpoint, yet all characters and surroundings are modeled in 3D. I would consider this level of 3D rendering as sufficient for the list.

No matter what, it offers captivating characters that leave you eager for more encounters, along with an array of initial weapons and modifiers that ensure each playthrough feels fresh and rewarding.

Specific praise is given to the game “Hades 2.” This game entry comes highly recommended if you enjoy unpredictable combat with a dash of slashing action. In other words, if you find such gameplay engaging, these two games are certainly worth your time!

8. Inscryption: Kaycee’s Mod

Not a Mod

Although you might believe that Inscryption was a straightforward game with a clear ending once you completed it, there’s actually a way to continue playing, known as the roguelike mode, which is included in the original version of the game.

In this game, you have numerous initial deck options to select, features to amp up the challenge level during your play, and an additional final opponent if you manage to win under multiple tough prerequisites.

Regardless of whether you focus on enhancing the gameplay mechanics, the game’s captivating atmosphere, engaging 3D roguelike deck-building gameplay, and adorable artistic design keep you hooked throughout the entire experience, making it an enjoyable and innovative adventure from start to finish.

While you may find it daunting that you have to navigate a sequential, somewhat unclear rogue-lite journey to reach Kaycee’s Mod, I assure you that the standard game is exceptionally good, and I believe it’s still worth trying out even with this requirement.

7. Void Bastards

Flown off the Page

As a gaming enthusiast, I must confess, Void Bastards has an art style that leaves me utterly spellbound – it’s like stepping into a vibrant comic book world! The humor and characters are top-notch too, making every moment a laugh riot. However, the gameplay could use a bit more polish to truly make it a masterpiece.

Each character offers a slightly different set of actions, allowing you to navigate a space station while utilizing your distinct abilities and strategic thinking, all with the ultimate goal of escaping unscathed.

Initially, this game is quite enjoyable, but soon, it starts to feel repetitive as its content seems to repeat with each playthrough, and you might find yourself completing it within approximately 10 hours. Just be aware of this when deciding whether or not to play.

The game is definitely worth giving a shot due to its distinct gameplay mechanics and a fresh take on the roguelike genre that I haven’t encountered before. Notably, it leans more towards randomized strategy rather than traditional roguelikes. However, keep in mind that it may not be a game you play endlessly.

6. Lethal Company

Left to Die

It’s quite possible that you’ve encountered or even played Lethal Company, given its significant popularity in 2023. However, it might not immediately be associated with the genre of Roguelike, despite featuring randomly generated mazes and unique random occurrences with each playthrough.

This game is primarily designed for multiple players, where you can witness unexpected misfortunes befalling your companions. Not only is it incredibly enjoyable, but it also offers a wealth of technical aspects that make unraveling its mysteries an engaging experience.

Inside every building, the layout and items found are unpredictable, drawn from various item pools. This implies that you can’t foresee the outcome of your exploration in these buildings, although it’s impossible to guarantee total accuracy.

Apart from the amusement you get when your friend’s loud shouts abruptly fade away in the background, this game offers a delightful challenge to improve its performance, and it’s consistently engaging to gather debris and perform necessary tasks for the corporation.

5. Gunfire Reborn

Diving Through Dungeons

Although the graphic style of Gunfire Reborn may initially seem rough or unappealing, the captivating and enjoyable mechanics hidden beneath are worth exploring. I wouldn’t want to overlook this game due to its appearance.

In this game, you’re frequently dodging flames by sprinting, and utilizing the vast dungeon and open-space structures as shields to deflect attacks while leveraging your unique skills to maintain the advantage.

As you progress, each additional feature feels enjoyable and distinctly different to utilize, and it’s less about an intense, overwhelming experience filled with countless enemies, but rather a lively dungeon exploration shooter that maintains a sense of fairness.

It’s equally enjoyable in cooperative mode, creating a scenario where you and your companions can take turns attacking an opponent, leaving just one of you as the one who looks like a porcupine after the fight is over.

4. BPM: BULLETS PER MINUTE

Straight Bangers

In case you haven’t heard, the game titled “BPM: Bullets Per Minute” falls under the genre of Rhythm Shooters and is set entirely within a Roguelike universe. This concept is remarkably raw and rawly exciting, making it a standout choice!

This game offers a smooth, sleek feel, and each successful shot landing perfectly in time is immensely gratifying. It stands out as one of the most exhilarating games available, even though it only becomes truly challenging at its maximum difficulty level.

Skirting around, dodging, swiftly striking each shot, and flawlessly reloading, all while scouting, targeting, acquiring fresh enhancements, and adding accessories to your gear, immerses you in an extraordinarily exhilarating flow of action that I’ve rarely experienced.

As a gamer, I’ve found that diving into this specific genre can be quite challenging. It requires juggling multiple mental tasks simultaneously and performing optimally, which might seem overwhelming if you’re not prepared. However, once you get the hang of it, the experience becomes nothing short of incredible.

3. Going Under

Climb The Ladder

Mentioning “Going Under,” a game often overlooked in discussions, I find it incredibly undervalued. It’s a thrilling hack-and-slash dungeon exploration game where you can pick up nearly anything within reach and use it as a weapon.

The design of this game resembles the tacky corporate art, now vividly depicted in a 3D setting. This style seems perfectly suitable for an adventure set within the basements of fictional corporations that mirror the greed of their actual counterparts.

Engaging in battle is quite enjoyable as it often requires you to utilize the surroundings and improvise weapons during a fight, which might involve quick maneuvers to avoid danger and think on your feet to extricate yourself from some rather absurd predicaments.

This game boasts exceptional storytelling and offers an engaging, enjoyable adventure that seems ripe for exploration following players’ experiences with Another Crab’s Treasure. Regrettably, however, it appears to have been overlooked by many.

2. Roboquest

A Complete Classic

Roboquest stands out as an exceptional, timeless video game that offers unique movement technology, a plethora of enjoyable abilities, and is equally entertaining whether played solo or with others. I believe it deserves broader acclaim.

This game is an exhilarating, rapid-fire first-person shooter that immerses you in a series of intense battle scenarios. It makes you feel powerful as you skillfully dodge incoming fire and utilize all your weapons to annihilate the opposition.

The design also features a unique, comic-book-like cell shading, and I particularly appreciate the occasional use of onomatopoeia. Surprisingly, it harmonizes perfectly with the continuous electronic rock music throughout.

Among the most delightful games I’ve played is one that offers a tremendous sense of fulfillment. Although it features some lasting development, this aspect doesn’t significantly disrupt gameplay during each session. Moreover, a new mode has been introduced where you can continue indefinitely without any long-term advancements.

1. Risk of Rain 2

Peak, I’m Afraid

Without a doubt, it’s crucial to emphasize that Risk of Rain 2 occupies a top position in my book. This game, being the finest example of a 3D Roguelike I’ve encountered, has set an unparalleled standard and served as a beacon for innovation within the genre for quite some time now.

Despite having earned all achievements and investing 350 hours in the game, I find myself continuously drawn back. The thrill of scavenging stages, evading enemy attacks (unless you’re an Engineer), and navigating every teleporter is hard to resist.

The intricate yet straightforward system of item stacking gives each playthrough a distinct flavor, ensuring no two runs are ever identical. Remarkably, even after all this time, the fundamental design of the game has managed to avoid feeling repetitive.

This game is incredibly rewarding, boasts one of the finest soundtracks ever heard in gaming, and its smooth gameplay draws you in so strongly that you find yourself playing for an hour, choosing your preferred character, and saying “just one more try” repeatedly.

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2025-02-20 16:12