Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor
" Addictive action survivor with unique mining and upgrades but slow progression grind "
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor Review
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor is a roguelike survivor game set in the Deep Rock Galactic universe, blending frantic combat, mining mechanics, and strategic resource management. Players control dwarves of distinct classes, each with unique abilities, navigating procedurally generated caves filled with waves of alien creatures. The gameplay loop emphasizes mining ores, fighting hordes, and escaping via timed drop pods after boss fights.
The game is praised for its smooth performance, vibrant cartoonish graphics, and addictive gameplay loop with meaningful meta-progression through weapon upgrades, overclocks, and permanent unlocks. The mining mechanic adds a unique twist to the genre, differentiating it from typical auto-shooter survivors. However, players note a grind-heavy progression system with slow upgrade pacing and some repetitiveness in mission variety and enemy types. The lack of multiplayer co-op and occasional UI inconsistencies also limit the experience.
Overall, the game offers a solid, fun, and challenging experience for fans of roguelike survivors and the Deep Rock Galactic franchise, though it still needs refinement and content expansion as it evolves in Early Access.
Highlights
Players highly praise the game's unique blend of mining and survivor mechanics, which adds depth and strategy to the genre.
The distinct dwarf classes with varied playstyles and satisfying weapon upgrade system keep gameplay fresh and engaging.
Visually, the game features crisp, colorful, and cartoonish graphics with immersive sound design and witty voice lines.
The addictive progression loop, rewarding meta-upgrades, and tactical combat create a compelling experience.
Performance is smooth across platforms, including Steam Deck, providing a fluid and responsive gameplay experience.
Criticisms
The upgrade progression is considered slow and grind-heavy, causing frustration and reduced enjoyment over time.
Mission variety and enemy diversity are limited, leading to repetitive gameplay sessions.
Some weapons and classes feel underpowered or lack distinctiveness, reducing build viability.
The timed drop pod mechanic can feel punishing and disrupt immersion.
UI inconsistencies and lack of clear explanations for stats and upgrades hinder usability.
The absence of multiplayer co-op is a notable drawback for fans of the original Deep Rock Galactic.
Occasional bugs, crashes, and achievement issues have been reported.
Some players find the difficulty spikes and enemy design frustrating rather than challenging.
Pros
- • Unique mining mechanic adds strategic depth to the survivor genre.
- • Distinct dwarf classes offer varied and engaging playstyles.
- • Satisfying weapon upgrade and overclock systems enhance replayability.
- • Colorful, cartoonish graphics with crisp models and vibrant effects.
- • Addictive progression loop with meaningful meta-progression.
- • Smooth performance across platforms including Steam Deck.
- • Immersive sound design with witty dwarf voice lines.
Cons
- • Progression grind is slow and can feel tedious over time.
- • Limited mission variety and enemy diversity cause repetitiveness.
- • Some classes and weapons lack balance and distinctiveness.
- • Timed drop pod mechanic can feel punishing and immersion-breaking.
- • UI is inconsistent and lacks clear explanations for stats.
- • No multiplayer co-op limits social gameplay appeal.
- • Occasional crashes and bugs affect stability for some players.
Rating Criteria
DEEP ROCK GALACTIC: SURVIVOR is a single player survivor-like auto-shooter. Take on hordes of lethal aliens, mine riches, and unlock powerful upgrades to survive, as you wield the full arsenal of Deep Rock Galactic. It's one dwarf against all of Planet Hoxxes!