Cavern Kings
" Addictive action roguelite platformer with dynamic power-ups but abandoned by developer "
Cavern Kings Review
Cavern Kings is an action-packed roguelite that blends fast-paced gameplay with a unique digging mechanic. Players descend through procedurally generated levels, battling hordes of enemies and bosses while collecting power-ups and weapons. The game features a variety of characters, each with distinct abilities, and offers both standard and arena modes. Despite its engaging core gameplay and addictive replayability, the game has been stuck in Early Access for over eight years, with the developer abandoning further development and failing to implement promised features like online multiplayer. Players praise the game's smooth controls, challenging difficulty, and creative mechanics, but many are disappointed by the lack of updates and balance issues.
Graphically, the pixel art style is well-received, and the soundtrack complements the intense gameplay, though some find the music repetitive and loud. The game suffers from bugs, performance issues in later stages, and unbalanced power-ups. Overall, Cavern Kings offers a solid foundation with enjoyable gameplay but is marred by neglect and incomplete content, making it a risky purchase unless discounted or bought for solo play.
Highlights
Players especially praise Cavern Kings for its addictive and fast-paced gameplay, which combines elements from popular roguelites like Risk of Rain and Nuclear Throne.
The variety of characters, unique abilities, and stacking power-ups provide diverse playstyles and high replayability.
The pixel art graphics are considered beautiful and polished, with smooth controls enhancing the experience. The soundtrack, while sometimes repetitive, adds to the game's intense atmosphere.
Local co-op is available and enjoyable, with online multiplayer promised but never delivered.
Criticisms
The primary criticism revolves around the game's abandonment by the developer, leaving it stuck in Early Access for years without significant updates or bug fixes.
Players report balance issues, with many power-ups being either overpowered or useless, and bosses sometimes feeling unfair or repetitive.
Performance problems occur in later levels and arena mode, causing lag even on powerful systems.
Bugs such as achievement unlocking failures, glitches with dynamic screen settings, and issues with multiplayer functionality detract from the experience.
Many players express frustration over the lack of promised features, particularly online co-op, and poor communication from the developer.
Pros
- • Addictive and challenging roguelite gameplay with fast-paced action.
- • Varied characters with unique abilities enrich playstyles.
- • Stackable power-ups create dynamic and diverse runs.
- • Beautiful and polished pixel art graphics.
- • Smooth and responsive controls enhance gameplay.
- • Engaging soundtrack complements intense action.
- • Local co-op supports up to four players.
Cons
- • Developer abandoned the game after years in Early Access.
- • No online multiplayer despite promises and Kickstarter funding.
- • Balance issues with many overpowered or useless power-ups.
- • Performance drops and lag in later levels and arena mode.
- • Bugs affecting achievements, screen settings, and gameplay.
- • Limited weapon variety compared to similar games.
- • Repetitive and sometimes overly loud soundtrack.
Rating Criteria
Cavern Kings is an infinite action platformer designed to make every playthrough unique and interesting. Cavern Kings aims to explode with special effects in classical arcade fashion and create interesting synergies with its powerup system.