Halls of Torment: A Retro Roguelike with Modern Charm

Halls of Torment delivers an enthralling mix of old-school charm and modern roguelike elements, standing out with its distinct visual style and engaging gameplay loop. Drawing inspiration from classic isometric dungeon crawlers like Diablo (particularly the original), the game invokes strong nostalgia while offering a fresh experience that fits today’s gaming landscape.

Visuals & Atmosphere:
The first thing that strikes you is the retro aesthetic. The pixel art and isometric viewpoint create an atmospheric throwback to 90s-era games, with eerie environments and dark, moody dungeons. The game's gritty visuals are perfectly suited to its ominous theme, with monsters and environments drenched in gloomy hues and ominous lighting. Despite the simplicity of the graphics, the game makes excellent use of visual cues, making sure players are never lost in the chaotic onslaught of enemies.

Gameplay:
At its core, Halls of Torment is a roguelike action RPG, meaning each run is unique. Players traverse dangerous dungeons, fending off hordes of enemies, collecting loot, and upgrading their character. What makes the game truly shine is its tight, responsive combat system. Every strike, spell, and action feels impactful, and the randomized nature of dungeons keeps you on your toes.

One of the standout features is the variety of character classes and skills available. Each class offers a distinct playstyle, from the melee-heavy brute to ranged magic casters. Progression feels rewarding, as upgrades and abilities significantly change how each run feels, adding layers of strategy to each encounter.

Difficulty & Replayability:
As with many roguelikes, Halls of Torment isn't easy. The game can be brutally unforgiving at times, especially in later levels where waves of enemies can overwhelm even the most prepared player. But the challenge is part of the appeal; each failure teaches you something new, and the gradual progression system ensures that you return stronger each time.

The replayability is vast, with new items, characters, and abilities unlocking over multiple runs. For fans of games like Vampire Survivors or Dead Cells, the addictive “one more run” mentality will feel very familiar here.

Audio:
The soundtrack complements the dark ambiance perfectly, offering haunting melodies that ebb and flow as you descend deeper into the halls. The sound effects, from the clang of swords to the groans of defeated enemies, are sharp and satisfying.

Verdict:
Halls of Torment masterfully blends nostalgia with fresh roguelike mechanics. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it provides a compelling, challenging experience for those who enjoy tight gameplay, rewarding progression, and the thrill of roguelike adventures. Its retro aesthetic will particularly appeal to fans of early dungeon crawlers, but even newcomers will find something to love in this addictive dungeon-delving romp.

Score: 9.5/10