11 Best Games Where RNG Is A Mechanic

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It seems to me that the criticism leveled against Random Number Generators deciding game results might be more intense than necessary, and incorporating elements of chance into gameplay can actually add an exciting factor.

There’s no need for every experience to seem unfair or disappointing. Instead, You might find variety in results as you give it a try.

In essence, roguelike games owe much of their unique character to random number generation (RNG) influencing key aspects of gameplay. However, beyond the roguelike genre, RNG can also be skillfully implemented in a variety of other gaming scenarios.

Here are ten games that skillfully blend elements of chance with a sense of achievement, ensuring a balance between luck and satisfaction, while ultimately relying on programming for outcomes.

11.
Terraria

Trial by Fate

As a game featuring seed-based world generation, everything in Terraria is determined by luck, and luck is one of the most important parts of the game.
Every bit of damage you deal will vary based on RNG, and your rare item drops and fishing pulls will also benefit from you placing down good torches and drinking luck potions.

Regardless of how unlucky you might be, you’ve got a knack for strategizing and executing battles with finesse.

In other words, this system is designed to inspire you to discover, enjoy fortunate reforges, uncover valuable items, and generously compensate you when you land the most favorable results on random number generator (RNG) draws.

10.
Downwell

The Revolution

In contrast to many other roguelike games that rely heavily on luck, the random number generator (RNG) elements in Downwell seem carefully planned and integral parts of its overall design.

Specifically, completing each level presents you with a selection of three randomly selected enhancements that help improve your grasp and manageability of fortune.

As a player, I can select gear that boosts my damage output or survivability. Alternatively, I might opt for the ability to re-roll my weapons, gain additional items from the store, or carry four items rather than the usual three.

In most roguelike games, the choice of items revolves solely around statistics, but what makes it far more intriguing is when you have to decide between improving stats or increasing your luck. This aspect is something I truly appreciate.

9.
Slime Rancher

Maximum Stonks

Maybe it’s a bit on the basic side of things, but I really enjoy playing the stock market in Slime Rancher. Plenty of games have done this, but I think this one is the best.

Although you won’t directly witness the impact of your personal trades on an actual stock market, you can invest a substantial amount of Rad Plorts and observe their worth decreasing dramatically.

Transforming it from a laid-back farming game featuring charming slimes into more of a captivating business strategy title, where managing stocks and guessing the optimal time for selling brings about genuine enjoyment.

To make a profit, consider selling during times when prices are at their peak. Alternatively, you might choose to hold out for potential improvements, but keep in mind the risk of the market fluctuating negatively while you’re accumulating your stocks (or plorts).

8.
Fallout 4

Simple Assistance

These guys don’t stand a chance.

In the series, Fallout consistently improves a gameplay element known as V.A.T.S., which allows you to target specific body areas on any adversary. This feature enhances your chances of hitting those targeted spots accurately.

Without a doubt, the most commonly appreciated version of the V.A.T.S. mechanism in the Fallout series can be found in Fallout 4. This feature allows time to temporarily pause, giving you the chance to carefully accumulate a potent critical strike.

In this fast-paced world without the luxury of pausing time, things have become more intriguing than they’ve ever been. It offers you additional moments to ponder, and leaves you pondering if you should dash forward with a likelihood of 67%.

This mechanic adds an intriguing twist to gameplay, and although it’s not essential for everyone in a fight, it caters beautifully to those who enjoy the thrill of taking risks and trying their luck – much like gambling.

7.
Stardew Valley

Gold Star

Just like Terraria, Stardew Valley incorporates a luck factor that significantly impacts random events within the game. However, there are several noticeable methods to influence this luck mechanic.

Each day, you could tune into the TV for a glance at your fortune, and on a lucky day, you might find superior mine floors, improved crop quality, and increased rewards awaiting you.

You can boost your ‘luck’ level significantly by putting in some extra effort, commonly known as ‘grinding’, which will help you surpass your usual daily ‘luck’.

After mastering the art of boosting your fortune-telling skill, you can confidently venture into the mines and effortlessly clear multiple levels, which is incredibly gratifying when you receive such generous rewards.

6.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Beep Boop

Despite the potential for chaos, luck-based mechanics in competitive fighting games might seem disastrous. However, Super Smash Bros. consistently transforms these elements into exhilarating spectacles.

Back in Melee, Mr. Game and Watch’s side special move randomly selects a number, and if it lands on 9, it instantly eliminates opponents, which is greatly appreciated by all.

Currently, in the game Ultimate, there’s a character named Hero, who embodies the essence of turn-based RPG mechanics by being as unpredictable and disorderly as possible.

1) In Smash battles, you have the ability to randomly strike with fatal smash attacks. Also, when you perform your down special move, it randomly selects from a variety of spells, each with unique effects.

5.
Risk of Rain 2

You Gain Nothing

In the thrilling world of Risk of Rain 2, I find myself inundated with an array of unpredictable loot. Contrary to most games where luck becomes a crucial factor,

In simpler terms, you have the ability to discard poor quality items and obtain improved ones. At each stage, you’ll receive new items that could complement each other effectively, and there’s always the option to return to acquiring items through a random selection process.

Shrines of Chance are exceptionally potent features within the game, particularly beneficial for skilled gamblers, since they offer items of all rarities at a reduced cost compared to typical chests.

It seems to me that this method offers an amazing opportunity for a return, and although there’s a chance things might not go your way and something unfortunate happens, it still feels rewarding to try because even a small success makes the effort worthwhile.

4.
Dead Cells

Supercede Synergy

In the game Dead Cells, there’s a stronger emphasis on crafting a well-rounded character by harmonizing all equipment, and the ability to re-roll modifiers plays a significant role in achieving this balance.

After each phase, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a secure location where you can invest your funds and resources into enhancements, specifically weapon modifications that bestow unique characteristics onto your equipment.

These features range from inflicting fire damage on opponents, launching explosives, all the way to everything in between, and they can significantly impact whether you succeed or fail in your playthrough.

In simpler terms, I successfully re-rolled a combination of sword and blade with flawless precision, eliminating the initial two strikes from the sequence. This allowed me to destroy everything effortlessly, and it was truly thrilling!

3.
Dicey Dungeons

Take a Gamble

Glancing at Dicey Dungeons, one might easily deduce that it is a game heavily focused on random elements, being primarily a dungeon crawler. And indeed, I find this aspect quite appealing.

Each move in this game features a specific strength, and your sole means of offense consists of rolling a die and crossing your fingers that the result is sufficient for success.

It seems this strategy could be crucial, as it allows you to control your supplies effectively and adapt to the unpredictable results of these occasional dice rolls, ensuring a prolonged survival.

Adopting this strategy, I often seek healing online, accumulate toxic attacks, and repeatedly strike enemies with swift, minor assaults. This tactic holds true for all numbers ranging from 1 to 6.

2.
Tetris

In The Bag

It’s widely recognized that Tetris, through continuous evolution over the years, became an iconic version of a game mechanic. The pinnacle of this refinement was undoubtedly achieved when they introduced the ‘hold’ system, which significantly improved the gaming experience.

The items you receive aren’t completely arbitrary. Instead, they consist of all seven distinct items, mixed up within the group, followed by another set. This setup allows for a strategic approach to be developed effectively.

Using the hold feature, you have the option to temporarily save an unwanted block for future use, or a beneficial one to ensure a Tetris clean-up on every line, and it’s brilliantly designed.

The main emphasis is on honing your ability, all the while ensuring you remain strategic in dealing with the rearranged puzzle pieces, allowing the element of chance to influence your approach without compromising its integrity.

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2025-05-21 17:43