The gaming genre popularized by Vampire Survivors has truly taken the gaming world by storm, with numerous games trying to ride on its wave of popularity. It’s quite remarkable how many of these games there are, often incorporating the term “Survivor” into their titles. Personally, I’ve explored and enjoyed several of these games, especially those that bring something new to the table. Titles like Boneraiser Minions, with its focus on companion-based gameplay, 20 Minutes Till Dawn, which offers more dynamic combat, and games like Death Must Die and Halls of Torment, which introduce unique classes and equipment.
### A Fresh Take on Vampire Survivors-Style Gameplay
Recently launched on PC, Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor seems like just another addition to the ever-growing list of Survivor-style games or auto-shooters. It follows the trend of early access releases and includes the crucial keyword in its title, as expected from such games. However, Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor surprises players by offering a distinct gameplay experience that goes beyond the usual formula. It stands out by providing players with objectives beyond simply defeating enemies.
In Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor, while defeating enemies remains a core aspect of the gameplay, the focus is on leveling up your character to enhance your combat abilities. Similar to other Vampire Survivors-inspired games, the goal is to upgrade your character to become more effective in battle, possibly reaching a point where your gear and perks feel overpowered. The game mechanics allow your weapons to automatically fire, enabling you to concentrate on maneuvering and positioning your character strategically.
This game goes beyond its name to incorporate mining as a crucial element, setting it apart from other Survivor-style games. The procedurally generated caves are filled with mineable walls that serve various purposes. Players can mine for resources, some for immediate use during the current gameplay session and others for permanent upgrades. Additionally, mining allows for creating shortcuts or manipulating enemy movements by altering the cave structure.
Although mining may seem mundane, the ability to reshape the environment in each stage introduces a new layer of complexity and strategic depth. This feature enhances the gameplay experience by requiring players to think on their feet constantly. For instance, guiding enemies into narrow passages can give you an advantage, while redirecting their path can buy you valuable time to escape. Moreover, certain enemy types have the ability to destroy walls, adding another tactical element that players must consider, resulting in a dynamic and engaging gaming environment that demands full attention throughout the gameplay.
In Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor, mining is not merely a pastime. This digging ability presents various risk-reward scenarios to ponder. Whether it’s pursuing bonus objectives for specific materials or succumbing to the allure of acquiring resources for permanent upgrades, the temptation to jeopardize your current expedition to gather ore is ever-present. There have been instances where I gleefully evaded formidable foes by a hair’s breadth after securing valuable goods. Conversely, there have been moments of frustration when my bold move didn’t pay off. Nonetheless, the thrill of these instances, coupled with the gratification of success, has been sufficient to prevent discouragement.
Games like Minecraft, SteamWorld Dig, and Deep Rock Galactic have showcased the enjoyment of excavating through blocks. Despite Survivor lacking the element of surprise due to its isometric view and predictable stage sizes, the act of digging remains a significant asset because of the strategic depth it adds.
Survivor excels not only in mining but also in offering a diverse arsenal of weapons, such as deployable automated sentries and a directional shotgun that require tactical utilization. Each stage culminates in a 30-second countdown, compelling you to dash to a drop pod for evacuation while weighing the temptation to mine further or collect missed XP pickups.
Despite being in early access for 6-12 months, the current gameplay experience of Survivor is already captivating. The game’s addictive nature led me to lose a substantial portion of my weekend playing it. While enhancements like introducing a broader range of bosses and side objectives, as well as the potential addition of cooperative play, could further enhance its longevity, Survivor has proven itself to be more than just another Vampire Survivors-style game with a familiar title. Please visit our site 60time.com for more gaming content, and don’t forget to follow us on social media at www.instagram.com/60time.com for the latest updates.
