Noobs Are Coming: A Roguelike Rumble with a Villainous Twist

Embrace your inner villain and unleash chaos in this frenetic roguelike

Launch Day Larry

In the chaotic world of roguelikes, “Noobs Are Coming” crashes onto the scene with the subtlety of a boulder rolling downhill. This game invites players to step into the shoes of the villains, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. With its fast-paced gameplay and a plethora of mechanics, it promises an experience as addictive as it is challenging. But does it deliver on its villainous promise, or does it trip over its own evil cape? Let’s dive in.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Chaos and Strategy

“Noobs Are Coming” takes the roguelike formula and injects it with a dose of villainous flair. The core gameplay loop is a delightful dance of destruction, where players must fend off waves of enemies using a variety of weapons and upgrades. The game builds on the foundation of titles like “Brotato,” adding layers of complexity and synergy that keep each run feeling fresh. The strategic depth is enhanced by the introduction of synergy items, turrets, and summons, which add a delightful twist to traditional mechanics.

While the controls are generally well-received, especially on the Steam Deck, some players find certain mechanics clunky without the right upgrades. The control scheme for purchasing items could use a bit of villainous cunning, as it currently feels more like a hero’s chore. However, the hitboxes are well-designed, ensuring that when you miss, it’s your fault, not the game’s.

Presentation: A Visual Feast with a Side of Chaos

Visually, “Noobs Are Coming” is a treat for the eyes, with a distinct style reminiscent of “Don’t Starve.” The vibrant characters and clear effects ensure that the screen remains readable even during the most chaotic moments. The 2D animation is buttery smooth, making every attack and explosion a joy to behold. However, the game does suffer from some visual clutter, particularly in co-op mode, where screen flashes and insufficient camera zoom can be distracting.

The sound design, while energetic, can become repetitive due to a limited number of tracks. Yet, the soundtrack remains a standout feature, contributing to the game’s immersive experience. The UI, though clean and minimal, could benefit from a bit more polish, particularly in terms of text readability and font size on platforms like the Steam Deck.

Story: A Villain’s Tale with Room to Grow

The narrative of “Noobs Are Coming” is woven through its character progression and villainous perspective. Players are tasked with combining skills and weapons to fend off waves of enemies, including boss characters known as “Noobs.” This mechanic implies a narrative centered on empowerment and progression through combat, with the collection of souls serving as a metaphor for growth and mastery.

While the story isn’t the game’s strongest suit, the unique premise of playing as villains offers a fresh take on character roles and motivations. The diverse character design adds depth and variety, with each character potentially bringing their own backstory and motivations to the narrative. However, the story lacks the depth and originality found in other titles, feeling more like a backdrop to the gameplay rather than a driving force.

Final Verdict

“Noobs Are Coming” is a roguelike that stands out with its villainous charm and engaging gameplay. While it has its rough edges, particularly in terms of visual clarity and story depth, the game’s addictive loop and innovative mechanics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. With frequent updates and a responsive developer, there’s potential for further enhancement upon full release. For now, it earns a solid 8 out of 10, with room to grow into a truly villainous masterpiece.