Spelunky
News, coverage and analysis tracking Spelunky across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Blood Dungeon (PS5) Review: Not Another Vampire Survivors Clone
Blood Dungeon for PlayStation 5 is a roguelike autoshooter that blends Spelunky-like platforming with bullet-heaven mechanics. While its shooting is automatic, players must master wall-jumping and diving to avoid enemies, creating a challenging yet rewarding gameplay loop. The game features over 100 weapons and upgrades, a satisfying progression system, and a divisive, slimy art style reminiscent of Nidhogg II.
Games are the most optimistic way I have found of looking at the world
The author reflects on how the video game Grow Home helped them overcome anxieties related to parenting by simulating safety and encouraging exploration. The game's 'Magic Beach' feature, where lost items reappear, is highlighted as a metaphor for how games provide a safe space to experiment and learn, ultimately fostering optimism through gratitude for these digital sanctuaries.
One of the First Mobile Roguelikes Is Back: House of the Lost: Revived Available Now on iOS and Android
F5 Games has launched House of the Lost: Revived, a rebuilt version of the 2012 mobile roguelike, on iOS and Android. The game is free to download with a $4.99 purchase unlocking the full experience, featuring procedurally generated levels, weapon crafting, and multiple environments. Originally praised as a mobile "Spelunky," the game was rebuilt from the ground up after being delisted in 2019.
Are these the 100 most influential games of all time?
Kitfox Games CEO Tanya Short discusses a list of the 100 most influential video games of all time, compiled by professional game designers. The list, assembled through the Polaris game design retreat, aims to serve as a tool for designers to improve their craft and create influential games.
The Sunday Papers
This article rounds up several gaming-related news items and discussions. It covers how Pokémon Go data might be used for military drone training, developers discussing the creation of discovery in games, concerns about generative AI's impact on the tech industry, and an oral history of the game Spore. Additionally, it touches on gamification and data collection in relation to word puzzles and a review of C. Thi Nguyen's book 'The Score'.
Nidhogg devs announce platforming action game Blood Dungeon
Messhof, the studio behind Nidhogg, has announced Blood Dungeon, a new platforming action game that blends automatic shooting with roguelite elements. Players will collect resources, unlock permanent upgrades, and survive through procedurally generated arenas. A demo is available on Steam, with the full game launching this summer for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
If Vampire Survivors and Spelunky had a baby, it'd be Messhof's Blood Dungeon
Messhof, the studio behind Nidhogg, is developing a new game called Blood Dungeon. The title is described as a hybrid of Vampire Survivors and Spelunky, suggesting a blend of roguelike and action elements.
PC gaming's very own indie-themed Smash Bros. just added the guy from Spelunky, who I now know is named Guy…
The indie platform fighter Fraymakers, developed by Team Fray, has added Guy Spelunky, a character from the acclaimed roguelike platformer Spelunky. Guy's moveset features iconic items from his home game, and he joins other indie characters like Octodad and Hat Kid in Fraymakers' PC-centric roster.
Pit Panic Preview – Dig your way out of arcade disaster
Pit Panic is an upcoming arcade-style game from Flying Rat Studio that tasks players with climbing out of a pit by smashing blocks. The game features handcrafted levels, risk-reward mechanics, and a 'panic' mode where the area fills with water. Pit Panic is set to release in July on multiple platforms, including PC and Steam Deck, with a demo available soon.
Why You Should Play Bad Games
This opinion piece argues that playing poorly reviewed or designed games can enhance a gamer's appreciation for well-crafted titles. By experiencing flaws in level design, controls, and artwork, players can gain a deeper understanding of what makes good games enjoyable. The author suggests this approach can combat gaming monotony and offers examples like The Binding of Isaac, Spelunky, and Super Meat Boy as games that, despite potential flaws, offer valuable lessons.
The Best Nintendo Switch Platformers
This guide rounds up the best platforming games available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. It includes a variety of titles, from classic 2D side-scrollers to modern 3D adventures, featuring both first-party Nintendo franchises and popular third-party releases.