The Most Popular Roguelike Game, Ranked

Choose the game you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 31, 2024 07:11
For fans of Roguelike games, where every playthrough layers new complexity and unpredictability, knowing which games stand out can significantly enhance their gaming journey. A communal ranking helps gamers pinpoint which titles are resonating with the community and why. This can be especially useful for those new to the genre or looking for their next big challenge. By participating in this communal voting process, users not only contribute to the collective wisdom but also gain insights on why certain games are favored. This evolving list responds to fresh preferences and shifts in gaming trends, giving everyone a real-time snapshot of the genre's top contenders. Your vote helps shape this dynamic leaderboard, making it a reliable resource tailored by and for enthusiasts.

What Is the Most Popular Roguelike Game?

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    The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth

    A randomly generated action RPG shooter with heavy Rogue-like elements.
    • Release Date: 2014
    • Developer: Nicalis, Inc.
  2. 2
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    Enter the Gungeon

    A bullet hell roguelike video game that emphasizes gunplay and shooting mechanics.
    • Release Date: 2016
    • Developer: Dodge Roll
  3. 3
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    FTL: Faster Than Light

    A space-based top-down real-time strategy roguelike game where you manage and command a spaceship.
    • Release Date: 2012
    • Developer: Subset Games
  4. 4
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    Hades

    A roguelike action dungeon crawler game where you defy the god of the dead as you hack and slash out of the Underworld of Greek myth.
    • Release Date: 2020
    • Developer: Supergiant Games
  5. 5
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    Rogue Legacy

    A genealogical rogue-LITE where anyone can be a hero, with a unique inheritance system that changes the game with each playthrough.
    • Release Date: 2013
    • Developer: Cellar Door Games
  6. 6
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    Darkest Dungeon

    A challenging gothic roguelike turn-based RPG about the psychological stresses of adventuring.
    • Release Date: 2016
    • Developer: Red Hook Studios
  7. 7
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    Slay the Spire

    A fusion of card games and roguelikes together to make a single player deckbuilder adventure.
    • Release Date: 2019
    • Developer: MegaCrit
  8. 8
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    Spelunky

    A unique platformer with randomized levels that offer a challenging and new experience each playthrough.
    • Release Date: 2008
    • Developer: Derek Yu
  9. 9
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    Dead Cells

    An action-platformer roguelike game inspired by Metroidvania-style games.
    • Release Date: 2018
    • Developer: Motion Twin
  10. 10
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    Crypt of the NecroDancer

    A hardcore roguelike rhythm game where you move to the beat of the music to navigate dungeons and battle monsters.
    • Release Date: 2015
    • Developer: Brace Yourself Games

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Roguelike game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or game is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2590 views
  • 0 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each game once every 24 hours. The rank of each game is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Roguelike Game

The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
Rank #1 for the most popular Roguelike game: The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth (Source)
Roguelike games have a rich history in the gaming world. These games offer unique experiences each time you play. They feature procedurally generated levels, turn-based gameplay, and permanent death. This means that when your character dies, you must start over from the beginning. This adds a layer of challenge and excitement.

The genre's roots trace back to early computer games. Developers wanted to create games that felt different each time. They used algorithms to generate new levels, items, and enemies. This made each playthrough unique. The term "roguelike" comes from a game that set the standard for these features.

In roguelike games, players often explore dungeons or other dangerous places. They collect items, fight enemies, and try to survive as long as possible. The levels are usually filled with traps and secrets. Players must think carefully about each move. One wrong step can lead to death.

Permanent death is a key feature. It makes the stakes higher. Players can't reload a saved game if they make a mistake. This forces them to learn from each run. Over time, they get better and go further. This sense of progression keeps players engaged.

Turn-based gameplay is another hallmark. Players and enemies take turns to move and act. This gives players time to plan their actions. They can think about their strategy without feeling rushed. This makes the games feel more like puzzles than action games.

Roguelike games often have simple graphics. This is because the focus is on gameplay and replayability. Many use text or basic symbols to represent the game world. This allows developers to create complex systems without needing advanced graphics.

Replayability is a major draw. Each new game is a fresh challenge. Players never know what to expect. This keeps the experience exciting and unpredictable. Many players enjoy the thrill of discovering new items and strategies.

The community around these games is strong. Players share tips, strategies, and stories about their runs. They often discuss the best ways to tackle difficult levels or enemies. This sense of community adds to the appeal.

Over the years, the genre has evolved. New features and mechanics have been added. Some games mix roguelike elements with other genres. This has led to a wide variety of games that appeal to different tastes. Despite these changes, the core principles remain the same.

The challenge and replayability of roguelike games make them popular. Players enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a difficult game. They appreciate the depth and complexity that these games offer. The randomness ensures that no two games are the same.

In conclusion, roguelike games hold a special place in the gaming world. Their unique features and challenging gameplay keep players coming back. The genre continues to evolve, offering new experiences while staying true to its roots. Whether you're a newcomer or a veteran, there's always something new to discover in the world of roguelike games.

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