Halls of Torment

Developer: Chasing Carrots
Release: Sep 24th 2024
Platforms:
Action
Indie
RPG
Addictive
Nostalgic
Strategic
Repetitive
Technical Issues
Halls of Torment Poster

Halls of Torment Review

Halls of Torment is a roguelite bullet hell game that blends the nostalgic Diablo 1/2 aesthetic with modern survivor-like mechanics. Players enjoy its addictive gameplay loop, engaging combat, and satisfying progression system, with many praising the variety of unlockable characters, gear, and abilities. The game features tight hitboxes, strategic positioning, and meaningful upgrade choices that reward skillful play. Its retro pixel art style and atmospheric sound design contribute to an immersive experience reminiscent of classic RPGs. The game is well-priced and offers substantial content, with frequent updates and future DLC teased by the developers.

However, some players find the gameplay repetitive over long sessions, with limited spell variety and character differentiation. Certain mechanics, like the item sending system, can feel frustrating. Occasional bugs and crashes, particularly on startup or fullscreen issues, have been reported. Despite this, the community generally regards it as a solid, enjoyable experience especially for fans of the genre and those seeking quick, satisfying runs.

Highlights

Players particularly praise the game's engaging gameplay mechanics, including precise hitboxes, strategic dodging, and meaningful upgrade decisions.

The graphics and art style evoke strong Diablo nostalgia with a gritty, pixelated dungeon vibe that many find charming and immersive.

The progression system with unlockable characters, gear, abilities, and achievements adds depth and replayability. The sound design also receives commendation for enhancing atmosphere without being overwhelming.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's repetitive gameplay after extended playtime and limited variety in spells and character builds.

Some players feel the item sending mechanic detracts from fun by forcing sacrifices of powerful items.

Technical issues such as crashes, fullscreen window bugs, and controller compatibility problems have been noted. Additionally, the difficulty balance can sometimes feel uneven, and the achievement system is considered cluttered or luck-dependent by some.

Pros

  • Addictive gameplay with tight hitboxes and strategic combat mechanics.
  • Nostalgic Diablo 1/2 inspired pixel art and atmospheric sound design.
  • Meaningful progression with unlockable characters, gear, and abilities.
  • Well-priced with frequent updates and planned future DLC content.
  • Variety of characters and builds encouraging experimentation.
  • Smooth performance including on Steam Deck devices.
  • Engaging boss fights that add challenge and variety.

Cons

  • Repetitive gameplay loop with limited spell and character variety.
  • Frustrating item sending mechanic reduces enjoyment for some.
  • Occasional crashes and fullscreen window bugs reported.
  • Some achievements feel luck-based or clutter the upgrade pool.
  • Difficulty balance uneven; some heroes feel too easy or hard.
  • Lack of multiplayer or co-op modes requested by players.
  • No mid-run save feature to pause and resume gameplay.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Slay hordes of terrifying monsters in this horde survival roguelite. Descend into the Halls of Torment where the Lords of the underworld await you. Treasures, magical trinkets, and a growing cast of heroes will grant you the power to vanquish these horrors from beyond. How long can you survive?

Release Date Sep 24th 2024
Publisher Chasing Carrots
Developer Chasing Carrots
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (19,705)
97% Positive 3% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
88