Roguelikes and roguelites offer a unique gaming experience, designed for endless replayability. With elements of random generation in levels, enemies, items, or other aspects, each playthrough presents a fresh challenge. This makes them some of the most addictive games available on PS5. While the genre is brimming with options, not all are created equal. We’ve invested countless hours exploring the world of roguelikes to curate a list of the very best available on PS5.
Hades
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, iOS, PlayStation 5, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Adventure, Indie
- Developer: Supergiant Games
- Publisher: Supergiant Games, Netflix
- Release Date: September 17, 2020
While PC players enjoy early access to the sequel, PS5 owners can still experience the original Hades. This innovative blend of Greek mythology and roguelike gameplay captivates players with stunning visuals and unique abilities. What truly sets Hades apart is its compelling narrative. The developers masterfully integrate storytelling into a genre defined by death and repetition, offering a rich cast of characters with extensive dialogue that unfolds with each run. The fluid combat system provides continuous opportunities for improvement, and even failed runs contribute to long-term progression by yielding resources for upgrades and weapon unlocks.
Hades – v1.0 Gameplay Showcase
Returnal
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5
- Genre: Shooter
- Developer: Housemarque
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Release Date: April 30, 2021
Returnal stands out as a AAA roguelike title, pushing the boundaries of the genre’s typical scope and budget. Similar to Hades, it cleverly weaves the cycle of death and rebirth into its narrative. This third-person shooter offers a unique experience with permanent traversal upgrades and a wide array of weapons and buffs. The gameplay distinguishes itself with bullet-hell elements, requiring players to master complex dodge mechanics while returning fire. While challenging, Returnal’s polished gameplay and attainable ending offer a rewarding experience.
Returnal – State of Play Gameplay Walkthrough | PS5
Slay the Spire
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, Linux, Android, PC, iOS, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Adventure, Indie, Card & Board Game
- Developer: Mega Crit Games
- Publisher: Humble Games
- Release Date: January 23, 2019
Slay the Spire set the standard for deckbuilding roguelikes with its intuitive yet deeply strategic gameplay. Players start with a character-specific deck and gradually add, remove, and upgrade cards as they ascend the spire. Turn-based combat allows for careful planning, with enemy actions clearly previewed. The constant tension between upgrading cards and maintaining health creates a thrilling experience. For those who conquer the main game, Ascension challenges provide an even greater test of skill.
Slay the Spire – Official Launch Trailer
Balatro
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Android, PC, iOS, PlayStation 5, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Strategy, Indie, Card & Board Game
- Developer: LocalThunk
- Publisher: Playstack
- Release Date: February 20, 2024
Balatro surprised everyone with its innovative approach to deckbuilding. Utilizing a standard 52-card deck, players form traditional poker hands to engage in combat. This accessible entry point leads to a surprisingly deep and satisfying experience as players learn to manipulate the deck with special Joker cards. Its simple yet profound gameplay earned it numerous awards and demonstrates how a classic concept can be transformed into something truly unique.
Balatro – Official Launch Trailer
Spelunky 2
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Platform, Adventure, Indie
- Developer: BlitWorks, Mossmouth
- Publisher: Mossmouth
- Release Date: September 15, 2020
Spelunky 2 builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, refining the core gameplay without drastically altering the formula. Players explore procedurally generated caves, collecting loot, acquiring items, and uncovering secrets to unlock new areas and bosses. Each run begins with basic equipment – a whip, ropes, and bombs – requiring players to strategically acquire resources throughout their journey. With permanent unlocks limited to cosmetic skins, the focus remains on the thrill of each unique run.
Spelunky 2 – Announcement Trailer
The Binding of Isaac: Repentance
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One
- Genre: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure, Indie, Arcade
- Developer: Edmund McMillen
- Publisher: Nicalis, Inc.
- Release Date: March 31, 2021
No roguelike list is complete without mentioning The Binding of Isaac: Repentance. This expanded version of the genre-defining title offers an immense amount of content. From its humble beginnings as a tear-shooting dungeon crawler, it has evolved into a sprawling experience with numerous characters, hundreds of interacting items, various modes, challenges, achievements, and secrets to discover. Repentance offers hundreds of hours of gameplay, with each run presenting something new.
Enter the Gungeon
- Platforms: Google Stadia, PlayStation 4, Linux, PC, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Shooter, Adventure, Indie, Arcade
- Developer: Dodge Roll
- Publisher: Devolver Digital
- Release Date: April 5, 2016
Enter the Gungeon distinguishes itself with its polished mechanics and unique gun-themed world. The tight controls allow for precise movement, dodging, and shooting, making even the most challenging bullet patterns manageable. The charming pixel art and pun-filled enemy designs add a layer of levity to the experience. With a balanced approach to content, Enter the Gungeon provides a fulfilling experience without becoming overwhelming.
Enter The Gungeon – Gameplay Trailer
These are just a few of the exceptional roguelikes available on PS5. With their focus on replayability and challenging gameplay, these titles offer endless hours of entertainment. So dive in, embrace the randomness, and discover your next favorite roguelike adventure.
