HELLBREAK

Developer: Double Barrel Games
Release: Jun 12th 2025
Platforms:
Action
Indie
Early Access
Addictive
Responsive Dev
Varied Weapons
Limited Content
Spawn Frustration
HELLBREAK Poster

" Engaging action roguelite arena shooter with fast-paced combat but limited maps "

HELLBREAK Review

HELLBREAK is a roguelike arena shooter that evokes classic Doom vibes while delivering a fresh, engaging experience. Players appreciate the game's pacing, satisfying combat mechanics, and variety of weapons, especially the impactful melee options like the katana. The meta progression system adds replayability, encouraging experimentation with builds and strategies. Despite being in early access, the developers actively update the game based on community feedback, improving gameplay and adding quality-of-life features.

Currently, the game features only two maps and three difficulty levels, which some players find limiting. While the combat is generally tight, some criticize the slower pace and occasional frustrating enemy spawns that can lead to unavoidable damage. Performance and menu navigation have room for improvement, but overall, HELLBREAK offers a fun, addictive experience at a reasonable price point, especially for fans of the genre looking for quick, satisfying runs after work.

Highlights

Players praise the game's fast-paced yet manageable combat, which balances action without feeling like a speed-run. The variety of weapons and perks, including powerful melee options, enrich gameplay. The meta progression system adds depth and replayability, keeping runs fresh. The graphics, while not top-tier, are acceptable and expected to improve. The developers' responsiveness to feedback and regular updates are also highly appreciated, enhancing the overall player experience.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the limited number of maps and difficulty levels, which restrict variety and challenge. Some players find the enemy spawn patterns frustrating, causing unavoidable damage. The combat pace is considered slower than desired by some, and certain weapon perks feel underwhelming. Menu navigation, especially with controllers, can be unintuitive. Additionally, performance issues persist but are reportedly improving with ongoing patches. A few players mention minor jankiness and bugs, though these are not widespread.

Pros

  • Engaging fast-paced combat reminiscent of classic Doom shooters.
  • Varied weaponry with unique perks enhances gameplay diversity.
  • Meta progression system encourages replayability and experimentation.
  • Developers actively update and respond to player feedback.
  • Addictive quick runs suitable for short play sessions.
  • Melee weapons feel impactful and add depth to combat.
  • Reasonably priced offering good value for content.

Cons

  • Only two maps currently limit gameplay variety.
  • Enemy spawn randomness can cause unavoidable damage.
  • Three difficulty levels offer limited challenge variety.
  • Combat pace slower than some players prefer.
  • Some weapon perks feel unexciting or unbalanced.
  • Controller menu navigation can be unintuitive.
  • Performance issues still present but improving.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Fight to save your soul from damnation in a brutal arena where only the strongest survive. Entertain the Lords of Hell and earn their favor to unlock new weapons, spells, and blessings. Dive into this fast-paced roguelite arena shooter and achieve the highest score. Can you reclaim your soul?

Release Date Jun 12th 2025
Publisher Biotech Gameworks, Double Barrel Games
Developer Double Barrel Games
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (51)
87% Positive 13% Negative