The Toughest Roguelite Games Out There

Roguelite games, inspired by the classic 80s game Rogue, are known for their intense difficulty levels. Let's explore some of the most challenging roguelites in the gaming world.
The Toughest Roguelite Games Out There

Highlights

  • Action roguelites present skill-based challenges with intense combat and platforming
  • Efficiency and strategy are key in games like Risk of Rain 2 with its ticking clock and tough bosses
  • Streets of Rogue offers high difficulty by blending immersive-sim elements and a variety of playable characters

While classic roguelikes and the original Rogue may have set the bar high for difficulty, modern roguelites bring their own unique challenges to the table.

One of the most demanding aspects of roguelites is found in action-oriented games, where combat relies heavily on player skill rather than strategic planning.

7 Rogue Legacy - A Lineage-Based Action-Platformer

Steam User Rating: 92%

Rogue Legacy, a pioneer in the roguelite genre, offers brutal platforming, challenging traps, and intense bullet hell combat. The game's lineage system allows players to progress and grow stronger across multiple attempts, easing the overall challenge.

6 Risk Of Rain 2 - A Race Against Time

Steam User Rating: 96%

Risk Of Rain 2 introduces a 3D dimension to the original's formula, demanding efficiency and quick decision-making. Players face tough boss fights and must master character abilities to progress, all while racing against a relentless ticking clock.

5 Streets Of Rogue - A Unique Blend of Challenges

Steam User Rating: 96%

Streets Of Rogue merges roguelite mechanics with immersive-sim features, offering diverse playable characters and unforgiving missions. The game's high stakes and varied playstyles make it a difficult yet engaging experience with substantial replay value.

4 Ravenswatch - A Diablo-Inspired Isometric Challenge

Steam User Rating: 78%

  • Platform(s): PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
  • Released: 2023
  • Developer(s): Passtech Games

Ravenswatch, an isometric action game, forces players to balance MOBA-style abilities and strategic co-op play. The game's doom timer adds pressure, leading to challenging boss encounters and demanding teamwork to survive.

The influences of Hades and Diablo are evident in Ravenswatch's talent system and immersive gameplay, offering a relentless experience, especially on higher difficulty settings.

3 FTL: Faster Than Light - An Intense Space Odyssey

Steam User Rating: 95%

FTL challenges players with real-time space combat and crew management, requiring quick thinking and strategic decision-making. From targeting enemy systems to fending off boarders, each choice in FTL can have dire consequences, making it a truly formidable roguelite experience.

2 Noita - A Spellbinding Adventure

Steam User Rating: 95%

  • Platform(s): PC
  • Released: 2020
  • Developer(s): Nolla Games

Noita's pixel art style and intricate physics system create a challenging environment where every action has consequences. Players must navigate deadly biomes, contend with brutal enemies, and harness powerful spells amidst ever-changing dangers.

1 Spelunky 2 - Descending into Danger

Steam User Rating: 93%

Spelunky 2 challenges players to explore treacherous caves filled with deadly traps and enemies. The game's fast-paced platforming and unpredictable hazards offer a thrilling but punishing experience, where one misstep can lead to a swift demise. Despite its toughness, Spelunky 2 remains an incredibly engaging journey for daring adventurers.