Hangtime!
" Addictive action sports roguelite with strategic upgrades but limited content and sharp difficulty spikes "
Hangtime! Review
Hangtime! offers a with a charming art style and accessible mechanics. Players appreciate its fast-paced gameplay and the strategic choice of stat upgrades that influence playstyle. The game features a tournament bracket format with a series of matches against distinct teams, each requiring different tactics. However, many players find the content limited, with the full game feeling like an extended demo due to the lack of permanent progression, customization, or additional modes.
The AI difficulty spikes sharply in later matches, especially the final boss, leading to frustration as only certain builds—mainly block-heavy—are viable. The teammate AI is often criticized for poor positioning and lack of contribution in blocking or covering the court effectively. Despite these issues, the game is praised for its potential and core gameplay loop, with hopes for future updates to add multiplayer, more content, and balance improvements.
Highlights
Players praise Hangtime! for its and simple yet satisfying controls. The , encouraging experimentation with different builds. The distinct playstyles of opposing teams keep matches engaging, requiring players to adapt tactics. The art style and presentation receive positive remarks for adding charm. Local co-op is enjoyed by many, and the game is seen as a great casual or party title. Fans of volleyball appreciate the game's unique sports roguelike concept and its potential for growth.
Criticisms
The main criticisms focus on , making the game feel repetitive after a few runs. The , with later opponents being overwhelmingly strong and forcing a narrow viable build path. The AI teammate's poor positioning and lack of blocking support frustrate players. Some upgrade choices are unclear or underwhelming, and the tutorial and explanations for mechanics are insufficient. Technical issues like input bugs in local co-op and frame rate drops without settings options also detract from the experience.
Pros
- • Simple and accessible volleyball gameplay with satisfying controls and mechanics.
- • Strategic upgrade system encourages varied playstyles and builds.
- • Distinct opposing teams require adaptive strategies in matches.
- • Charming art style adds personality and visual appeal.
- • Fun local co-op mode enjoyed by many players.
- • Addictive and quick gameplay loops suitable for casual play.
- • Potential for multiplayer and new features in future updates.
Cons
- • Limited content and lack of permanent progression reduce replayability.
- • Difficulty spikes sharply in late matches, limiting viable strategies.
- • AI teammate often poorly positioned and unhelpful in blocking.
- • Upgrade system and mechanics explanations are insufficient.
- • Repetitive gameplay as matches and opponents feel similar.
- • Local co-op input bugs and lack of controller support issues.
- • No customization options for characters or teams currently.
Rating Criteria
Hangtime! is a high-stakes volleyball roguelite where every rally hits like a boss fight. Chain explosive abilities, shut down evolving teams, and spike your way to the top — or lose it all in one play.