Absolum preview: A roguelike you can play for free on Steam right now

Roguelikes are a beautiful thing, and I have to give it up for Hades as that was the game that showed me how beautiful this genre can be when done right.

Absolum feels like another example of a roguelike done right, and I’m excited to play more through the demo that dropped 9 June on Steam.

But what is Absolum? Well it’s a 2D roguelike with gorgeous visuals, flashy moves and multiple playable characters, each one suiting a certain playstyle. During my time with the game at this year’s Summer Game Fest I went with the traditional sword-bearer, and was delighted to hear I was one of the only players who actually finished the demo run, but I’m not letting it go to my head I swear…

The game’s plot is an evil tyrant has taken over a fantasy world, and essentially outlawed magic, meaning sorcerers and magicians are attacked on sight.

It’s up to you to put an end to this anti-magic dictatorship by journeying through the kingdom, fighting hordes of enemies and all-powerful bosses along the way.

If you die it’s right back to the beginning of your journey, but like any roguelike you’ll keep something for your troubles, like more health, mana etc.

You’ve got your usual hack-and-slash moves, but you can also pick-up throwable weapons and interact with the environment to slay enemies in more creative ways.

Bosses in particular were really cool, as striking their weapon with your own at the right time initiates a clash, which is basically like a parry that gives you a prime opportunity to dish out as much damage as you can before they recover.

I’d highly recommend you give Absolum a go if you have the chance to. The demo for the game is live on Steam now and is worth any roguelike fan’s time.