Avernus

If you are looking to be punished, look no further than Avernus. This game is a stunning isometric action-adventure game that provides some of the most solid gameplay that I have ever witnessed from this genre. If you want to be in awe from start to finish with the challenging but fair gameplay, the stunning art deco environments, and the amazing use of colors and lighting, then you need to stop your search, because you’ve struck gold with this one. Let’s gear up and jump into this incredible game and learn more about exactly why it’s so good.

Gameplay

The gameplay to Avernus is not dissimilar to titles such as The Ascent or Darksiders: Genesis. With some top-tier top-down action, you will need to carefully avoid all of the many attacks delivered by the many enemies you’ll encounter along the trek. Some vary greatly from each other, so there is a lot of variety to keep you on your toes.

The best part is that as you progress, you will be able to pick up some of the abilities that you slain foes have left behind, and these can absolutely change the landscape of the battlefield. All of a sudden you’ve got game altering powers and you can take on the waves of enemies with new customized style. It allows for a unique customizability to your gameplay style, letting you take on the beasts in the dark however you see fit.

Beware, this game is difficult. It is not unfair, it is not broken, but it is difficult and you will likely struggle. This is not a game for the faint of heart as you can easily get overwhelmed by the various monsters out to get you, and when the screen starts to fill up with dangerous bright colors out to get you, you will panic.

Visuals

The visuals in Avernus are utterly stunning! I loved every second of playing this game and it is easily one of the best examples of high-quality roguelikes that everyone should see. Everything from the high resolution characters and backgrounds, to the weapons and ability effects are incredible. Colorful and stylish, this game has a distinct style that few games ever even come close too. The only one that I can think of is Hades, but this is easily on par.

The presentation of this title is one of a kind and I loved discovering more of the dungeon purely due to how astonishingly well-designed it all was. I definitely believe you will find this as interesting as I did.

Story

The story of Avernus is a simple one; a dead god gives the last of its strength to a warrior who must battle through their tomb and save them from a terrible fate. Further down you go, the more terrible secrets and monsters you will uncover. Learn what has caused all of this wanton destruction and emerge victorious. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Pros

• Excellent visuals and level design
• Amazing, fast paced combat with a lot of diversity

Cons

• Characters can be a little hard to see at times