2) Darkest Dungeon
Redhook’s Darkest Dungeon is a tactical RPG with a ton of character. Hard as nails, this is a complex, unforgiving game that requires the mastering of its many moving parts. It’s turn based strategy with a twist, featuring innovative mechanics that remove the predictable elements of combat so typical of the genre. Darkest Dungeon wraps all of this in a tense, atmospheric aesthetic that oozes with ambience.
Each new encounter, enemy type or boss seeks to surprise you in Dark Dungeon. Even in its grind-y gameplay loop, you’re constantly kept on your toes thanks to the game’s many layered mechanics. Aspects such as stress and psychoses demand a thorough, strategic approach to each encounter and require a detailed understanding of the game’s mechanics. These details not only add to the complexity of battle but also build further tension by reminding the player of the mental and physical toll of your character’s plight.
From the characters and monsters, to the horrific hallways that comprise the game’s locale, Darkest Dungeon’s moody aesthetic cannot be understated. The graphic novel visual style perfectly compliments its premise and the foreboding voice of the cleverly written narrator is superb.
Darkest Dungeon isn’t for the faint-hearted, but this hellish rouge-like absolutely wowed us with its intricate gameplay and gruesome charm.