Top 10 Roguelike Deckbuilding Games You Must Try

Roguelike deckbuilders have become a defining genre in the indie gaming landscape, captivating audiences with titles like Slay the Spire and Balatro. This genre thrives on its addictive gameplay, card unlocking mechanisms, and stunning visuals, which encourage players to engage in that “just one more round”experience.

Many of the top roguelike deckbuilders are also celebrated as some of history’s finest indie titles. They serve as excellent entry points for newcomers while still offering plenty of depth for seasoned players. Given the sheer number of games in this category, we’ve curated a selection of the top ten roguelike deckbuilders, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

10. Roguebook (Abrakam Entertainment S.A.)

A Roguelike Deckbuilder from the Creator of Magic: The Gathering

Roguebook serves as an exceptional introduction to the deckbuilder genre, featuring intuitive synergies, engaging characters, and an adventurous exploration experience across its procedurally generated landscape. Its interactive elements, including a dynamic map and 200 beautifully illustrated cards, set it apart from other games in the genre.

Developed through a collaboration between Magic: The Gathering creator Richard Garfield and the minds behind Faeria, Roguebook stands out as one of the most visually appealing options available. With six playable characters, extensive DLC, and enough unlockable content to provide hours of gameplay, Roguebook is a must-try roguelike deckbuilder.

9. Wildfrost (Gaziter, Deadpan Games)

A Frosty Roguelike Deckbuilder from Chucklefish

Wildfrost brings a splash of color to the genre, expertly maintaining freshness despite the abundance of similar games. Players experience growth by building up the town of Snowdell between runs while braving harsh conditions to rescue characters and recruit allies to join their causes.

8. Cobalt Core (Rocket Rat Games)

FTL Meets Roguelike Deckbuilder

Cobalt Core serves as a unique twist on the deckbuilder genre, echoing the gameplay elements of FTL. Players manage a crew aboard a ship, executing various strategic orders through their deck of cards. Each card represents a command for a crew member, each with distinct abilities. This game is ideal for those yearning for a sci-fi twist amidst the fantasy-themed offerings.

With a selection of diverse crew members, players have the strategic challenge of optimizing their team combination. Cobalt Core’s artistic visuals, engaging soundtrack, and well-crafted writing further elevate it as a standout title worth exploring.

7. Shogun Showdown (Roboatino)

A Samurai Roguelike Deckbuilder

Shogun Showdown immerses players in a vibrant setting enhanced by stunning pixel art, making it an excellent choice for fans of both roguelike deckbuilders and samurai culture. Players can upgrade cards, explore extensive, procedurally generated maps, and continuously refine their skills with each run.

6. Monster Train (Shiny Shoe)

Roguelike Deckbuilder with a Vertical Twist

Monster Train distinguishes itself by incorporating multiple lanes for combat. Players defend three distinct paths, resulting in intricately layered battles that elevate the complexity of strategy. This innovative approach enriches the gameplay experience without feeling superficial.

With 220 cards available, players choose a clan and unlock relevant cards, offering immense variety and a potentially engrossing multiplayer experience. Monster Train is an exceptionally replayable title that can keep deckbuilder fans engaged for countless hours.

5. Griftlands (Klei Entertainment)

From the Creators of Don’t Starve

Griftlands offers a narrative-rich experience that sets it apart from traditional roguelike deckbuilders. It features three distinct storylines, each with a unique protagonist, situated in an intricately crafted world filled with choices, quests, and intertwining narratives.

Despite the potential for repetitiveness with the game restarting after a loss, randomization and multiple character arcs keep the experience fresh. Boasting Klei Entertainment’s renowned art direction, Griftlands is a visually stunning roguelike deckbuilder that provides an engaging storyline to its players.

4. Zet Zillions (OTA IMON Studios)

A Deckbuilder All About Destroying Planets

Zet Zillions is crafted by OTA IMON Studios, known for their acclaimed indie RPG, Wolfstride. This creatively designed game merges card combinations with strategic gameplay centered on planet destruction. Players begin with a simple deck, upgrading through card fusion to enhance their capabilities.

Players engage in both combat and colonization to achieve victory, ensuring that every encounter remains stimulating. Its distinct art style and memorable characters add to the overall appeal, making Zet Zillions one of the best-looking roguelike deckbuilders and a delightful experience in gameplay.

3. Inscryption (Daniel Mullins Games)

A Horror Roguelike Deckbuilder Like No Other

Describing Inscryption might be challenging due to its unparalleled fusion of roguelike deckbuilding mechanics and psychological horror elements. This game subverts traditional gameplay with unexpected twists that keep players on their toes.

While its focus on horror may not appeal to everyone, those who embrace its eerie atmosphere will discover a profound and rewarding gaming experience. Its unique narrative approach and surreal visuals linger in the memory long after the conclusion.

2. Balatro (LocalThunk)

One of the Most Engrossing Deckbuilders

Balatro has taken the gaming world by storm, earning acclaim that culminated in a Game of the Year nomination at the 2024 Game Awards. It delivers an exceptionally captivating gameplay loop, drawing players into its depths with the promise of countless hours of enjoyment.

This poker-based roguelike deckbuilder revolves around forming poker hands to achieve target scores while leveraging Joker cards that introduce unique scoring modifications. Players can maximize their scores through strategic play, making Balatro an essential title for any roguelike enthusiast yet to experience it.

1. Slay the Spire (Mega Crit)

The Greatest Roguelike Deckbuilder Available

Unquestionably, Slay the Spire reigns as the pinnacle of roguelike deckbuilders, serving as a significant source of inspiration for countless subsequent titles. Its meticulously crafted gameplay loop ensures that this game remains a top choice for any aspiring player.

For anyone planning to experience a single roguelike deckbuilder, it should undoubtedly be Slay the Spire. Additionally, a sequel is on the horizon, promising to enhance the already rich experience, making it essential for players to master the first installment before moving on. For avid fans willing to delve into more than just one game, many fantastic roguelike deckbuilders await exploration, each offering their own unique twists on this beloved genre.

Source: Nintendo of America/YouTube, Raw Fury/YouTube

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