Hammerwatch

Genre: Top-Down Arcade / Action-RPG / 2-Stick Shooter

Players: 1-4 Co-Op (Local, Local Wireless, Online)

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Review:

Hammerwatch is a co-op Top-Down Arcade-style Action-RPG with some 2-Stick Shooter elements that is very reminiscent of the classic Arcade game Gauntlet. Originally released on PC in 2013, this game was ported to consoles in 2017, including Nintendo Switch.

The presentation here definitely aims for something old-school, with pixel art visuals featuring tiny characters (and some nicely-detailed larger enemies). This is backed by an energetic chiptune soundtrack that’s pretty catchy and does a good job backing the action.

As for the gameplay here, what’s here isn’t too deep, but what the game does, it does well – simple, straightforward action. Much as with Gauntlet, players pick a class, they have a regular attack and a special attack to fend off enemies (the latter using magic that gradually recharges), and must hunt through repetitive corridors for keys, switches, and loot. To the game’s credit, unlike Gauntlet, the loot here is extremely important, as players encounter shops that enable them to make permanent upgrades to their character, a nice touch.

Having said that, Hammerwatch does still fall prey to one of the issues that Gauntlet had, which is that it’s a bit repetitive due to its simplicity and somewhat monotonous corridors. It’s also not especially deep, with extremely simple combat mechanics. It doesn’t hold a candle to the likes of Diablo, for example, since it lacks that game’s interesting surroundings, varied loot and customization. However, if you’re looking for something straightforward to play in 4-player co-op, this may be just what you’re looking for.

That’s basically what it boils down to, really. If you want something deeper with more variety in this sort of genre, I would point you to Diablo III or Children of Morta. However, if you’re just looking for something simple to blast through hordes of enemies in multiplayer co-op, Hammerwatch is a solid choice, though it’s not without its flaws.

tl;dr – Hammerwatch is a co-op Top-Down Arcade-style Action-RPG with Two-Stick Shooter mechanics that’s reminiscent of the classic game Gauntlet. It’s simple and can be a bit repetitive, but if you’re looking for something straightforward to play with friends, this is a pretty solid entry in its genre.

Grade: B-

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