Rogue Masters

Rogue Masters is a niche indie game combining souls-like combat with a horde survival mode reminiscent of Killing Floor. Players praise its authentic Dark Souls-inspired mechanics, extensive character customization, and engaging co-op gameplay for up to six players. The transmog system and weapon variety enhance personalization, making PvP particularly enjoyable for fans of skill-based combat. However, the game is still in early access, and many players find the solo PvE experience repetitive and frustrating due to enemy swarm mechanics and stamina management. Technical issues like camera glitches, performance drops, and occasional multiplayer desyncs detract from immersion. While the PvP mode is highlighted as the game's true strength, the low player base and lack of matchmaking hinder accessibility. The developers show passion and actively seek community feedback, indicating potential for future improvements. Overall, Rogue Masters offers a solid foundation with promising combat but requires more content, balancing, and polish to fully realize its ambitions.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the game's faithful replication of Dark Souls combat mechanics, emphasizing fluid movement, satisfying animations, and skill-based PvP. The character customization and transmog system receive high marks for depth and creativity, allowing unique builds and appearances. Co-op gameplay is noted as fun and engaging, especially with friends, creating a chaotic yet rewarding experience. The art style and visual polish stand out for an indie title, contributing to immersion. The game's blend of souls-like and horde survival genres is seen as innovative, offering a fresh take on both. Many appreciate the developers' responsiveness and the game's potential as it evolves through Early Access.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the frustrating solo PvE experience, where enemy swarms and aggressive AI lead to tedious turn-and-burn combat loops. Stamina management and slow regeneration make dodging and rolling less viable, limiting strategic depth. The lack of weapon variety and build diversity, especially absence of ranged or caster options, reduces gameplay variety. Technical issues such as camera instability, hitbox inconsistencies, frame drops, and multiplayer desynchronization further hamper enjoyment. The progression system is viewed as slow and grindy for PvP preparation. Additionally, the game's small player base makes finding multiplayer matches difficult, impacting longevity. Many feel the game needs more content, balancing, and polish to reach its full potential.