Heroes of Hammerwatch II
" Engaging action RPG with deep progression and co-op, but repetitive gameplay and technical issues "
Heroes of Hammerwatch II Review
Heroes of Hammerwatch II is a roguelike action-RPG that expands on its predecessor with deeper customization, cooperative multiplayer, and a sprawling base-building system. Players enjoy the fluid hack-and-slash combat, multiple classes with unique abilities, and a variety of procedurally generated levels that keep runs fresh. The game features robust progression mechanics, including skill trees, equipment crafting, and town upgrades, which provide satisfying long-term goals.
However, the game has a relatively short main campaign (~10-15 hours) and suffers from some repetitiveness and lack of replay incentives after completion. Technical issues such as memory leaks, crashes, and multiplayer instability have frustrated some players. The story is minimal and not a focal point, with many players focusing on gameplay and co-op experiences. Despite some balance and content depth concerns, the game is praised for its pixel-art style, enjoyable gameplay loop, and multiplayer fun, especially with friends.
Highlights
Players praise the game for its engaging and fluid combat mechanics, diverse character classes, and deep customization options. The pixel-art graphics and vibrant, detailed environments receive consistent appreciation for their nostalgic charm and clarity.
Cooperative multiplayer is a standout feature, offering exciting teamwork and replayability. The base-building and town progression system adds strategic depth and long-term engagement. The game successfully blends roguelike elements with RPG progression, making it appealing to fans of the genre.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's short length and repetitive gameplay loop, which limit long-term replay value. Many players find the rogue-lite mechanics frustrating, especially the forced continuous runs without the option to bank resources mid-run.
Technical issues such as crashes, memory leaks, and multiplayer lag negatively impact the experience. The story is minimal and underdeveloped, and some players feel the sequel lacks the content depth and polish of the original. Balance issues and limited loot variety also reduce excitement over time.
Pros
- • Engaging hack-and-slash combat with fluid and responsive controls.
- • Diverse character classes with unique abilities and playstyles.
- • Deep customization through skill trees and equipment crafting.
- • Vibrant and detailed pixel-art graphics with nostalgic appeal.
- • Robust base-building and town progression system adds strategic depth.
- • Cooperative multiplayer enhances fun and replayability.
- • Procedurally generated levels keep each run fresh and unpredictable.
Cons
- • Relatively short main campaign with limited endgame content.
- • Repetitive gameplay loop and lack of incentives for replaying.
- • Frustrating rogue-lite mechanics with harsh penalties on death.
- • Technical issues including crashes, memory leaks, and multiplayer lag.
- • Minimal and unclear storyline that lacks player engagement.
- • Loot system not tailored to classes, causing unusable drops.
- • Balance issues with some abilities and enemies feeling over- or underpowered.
Rating Criteria
A rogue-lite action-rpg that offers extensive persistent progression. Build your town, upgrade and equip your heroes, before taking on the the ever-changing Dark Citadel - either solo or with a team of friends.