There’s always room for another roguelite game – especially one that mixes things up. Granted, that’s the nature of what a roguelite is anyway, something that gives you a new run each time around. But then there’s the nature of new weapons and ideas that keep a game fresh and exciting. And that, folks, is what Bruno Bombardi’s Dunjungle does.
In the game, you play the role of a warrior ape (no, not a Donkey Kong type) who sets out to eradicate an evil from his land. It turns out a sinister force is turning inhabitants into enemies – and our hero isn’t having that.
Dunjungle is a roguelite that thrives on innovation. There’s always a new kind of weapon or power-up that generates new interest, whether it’s long-range or up close. And even though the attack scheme is somewhat complicated by different types, it’s never difficult to get into. In fact, it mixes up big skirmishes beautifully, and keeps you motivated to try again should you lose. There’s a lot to unlock here – and you can actually keep track of a good part of it in a special room. You’ll see.
Combine that with a refreshing old-school style presentation and tons of replay value, and you have a game that will keep you interested for a good while. And that’s even if you’re not too crazy about roguelites to begin with. Dunjungle is bananas – and we mean that in a good way.
Corruption Rules In Dunjungle – But Not For Long
A mysterious corruption has taken over the land, turning friends into foes within milliseconds. It’s where our primate hero enters the picture, taking them down and trying to get closer to the truth about this menace. But, of course, the journey is filled with speed bumps galore, including boss battles that will certainly test you.
But relax. Dunjungle is a roguelite action game with purpose. Each run-through feels meaningful for a couple of reasons.
The first is momentum. The game features different attack patterns using a variety of weapons you’ll pick up throughout the game. Four attack buttons may seem like a bit much at first, but you’ll soon get into groove without missing a step.
That brings us into the second thing. You can pick up a ton of unlockable items that change the course of your attack style. These include relics to improve certain strengths, as well as both close range and long range weapons to take on enemies. This doesn’t make you invincible, mind you, but it does allow you to stay in the fight.
The game’s replay value is through the roof, with a ton to unlock and plenty of dangerous bosses to take on. Plus the various paths will lead you to other secret goodies as well. It’ll take you a good while to find everything, while you, ahem, go ape with each new run.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dunjungle’s play style. Its old-school gameplay feels right at home, while the new exploration techniques and roguelite elements keep it fresh. Just remember that you will die in a game like this, but progression is forever. Keep at it and you’ll be king of the world.
Dunjungle Also Wins With Its Visuals and Sound
Had the game gone for a more artistic touch, I probably still would’ve enjoyed Dunjungle. But the creator, Bruno Bombardi, actually keeps it relatively old-school. And I think that makes me like it even more.
Dunjungle has a retro art style that really works for a game such as this. It doesn’t overdo with its animations or design, nor should it. But it reminds us of old-school favorites of yore, while keeping up at a good pace. The roguelite level design is awesome as well, with something fresh with each new run-through. I’m still playing through it, for crying out loud.
Backing all this up is a great soundtrack that remains vibrant and somewhat jungle-themed through each play, along with sound effects that don’t wear out their welcome. They sound terrific through headphones as well.
Sometimes it helps to “keep it simple, stupid,” as it were. And Dunjungle actually wins because of this.
Dunjungle Is Bananas, B-A-N-A-N-A-S
If you can accept the roguelite approach and the built-on attack system, I think Dunjungle will have no trouble keeping your attention. It’s a razor-sharp action experience that gets more interesting the deeper you dig, mainly because of what you unlock. The old-school presentation also works very well, and never overstays its welcome.
There are tons of roguelites on the market already (looking at you, Dead Cells), but it’s hard to ignore newbies like Dunjungle that enter the picture. Check out the demo and then indulge in the full game. It’ll drive you ape in the best possible fashion.
And yes, it works on Steam Deck.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Astrolabe Games for providing us with a review code! Dunjungle is available now for Nintendo Switch and PC/Steam!
Looking for more thrilling adventure? Check out our review of Doom: The Dark Ages!
