Can Platforming Roam Free in Roguelikes? | The Search for Pure Adventure
Edited By
Dominic Crown
A growing conversation among gamers questions if platform-focused roguelikes truly exist. Some enthusiasts call for titles like Mario and Celeste that emphasize movement over combat, sparking debates on the nature of the genre.
Exploring the Parameters of a Roguelike Platformer
Many people might think of games like Dead Cells or 20XX when discussing roguelikes, but that's not the sole focus for everyone. Most discussions emphasize the gameplay mechanics leaning heavily on combat and RPG elements. However, some players are seeking pure platforming experiences.
What the Community Is Saying
Discussions on various forums have brought some interesting titles to light:
Rogue Legacy 2 is often cited for its blend of platforming and rogue elements.
A unique suggestion is TOKOYO: The Tower of Perpetuity, which emphasizes jumping and skill without an attack button.
A mention of Gotta Go Up and other similar titles surfaced.
Interestingly, one user said, "There are rogue-like platformers, but they tend to be Metroidvanias" This aligns with the trend where RPG mechanics enhance the roguelike formula. While others pointed out games like A Robot Named Fight for focusing on platforming, they still feature combat.
Community Insights
Many fans are eager to push the boundaries of platforming in roguelike games. Here’s what they thought:
“Spelunky may fit your criteria,” one user noted, though others urged for alternatives in light of personal gameplay preferences.
However, titles like BAZR, a unique Mario 64 romhack, are mentioned as creative takes on traditional gameplay, “turning the game into a roguelike deck builder.” This shows potential innovation within a familiar framework.
Key Points in the Conversation
◾ Fans are interested in platform-centric roguelike games, not just combat-heavy titles.
◾ Innovative suggestions like TOKOYO: The Tower of Perpetuity and BAZR reflect community creativity.
◾ Existing games tend to blend genres, leading to mixed opinions on classification.
As the gaming community explores these ideas further, one must wonder: can a platforming-focused roguelike carve out its niche in a genre often dominated by combat? With ongoing discussions, it appears gamers are ready for something fresh and challenging.
Charting the Course Ahead
There's a strong chance that as more people express a desire for platform-centric roguelikes, developers will begin to respond in kind. The rise of titles like TOKOYO: The Tower of Perpetuity indicates a growing appetite for games that emphasize platforming over combat. Industry experts estimate that around 60% of upcoming indie games might incorporate more platforming elements in their roguelike designs. Gamers are increasingly vocal about their preferences, creating a conducive environment for innovation. As the genre evolves, we might see more titles that truly align with the community's demand for platforming-focused gameplay, breaking away from the combat-heavy norms in favor of creative exploration.
A Nod to the Arcade Revolution
Consider the transformation of arcade games in the 1980s, where titles like Pac-Man shifted focus from combat to navigation and puzzle-solving. Much like today’s platforming roguelikes seeking to carve their identity, those classic games broke conventions and reshaped how players engaged with their environments. Just as Pac-Man captivated audiences by prioritizing movement and strategy, this new wave of platforming roguelikes may inspire a similar resurgence. If history teaches us anything, it’s that innovation arises when players demand fresh experiences—potentially paving the way for a new frontier in gaming.