ROBOBEAT is a fast-paced experience that’ll have your toes tapping and your soul screaming. This rhythm-based title will punish you if you stray off beat. Moreover, its procedurally generated gameplay keeps you guessing from beginning to end. As such, no playthrough is the same and this makes it extremely moreish.
This sci-fi-inspired title was developed by Simon Fredholm and published by Kwalee. What’s more, this FPS tests your sense of timing as every deadly action must match the beat of a song. This may seem unusual, but once you get to grips with the fundamentals, you’ll love every hectic moment.
ROBOBEAT tells the tale of a hero.
Heroes taking on villains is nothing new. Accordingly, ROBOBEAT doesn’t have the most original plot. However, this mattered not as the unusual action and insane perks make up for the familiar tale. Additionally, the testing gameplay and roster of enemies keep you on your toes throughout.
You control Ace. He’s an expert bounty hunter who fears nothing or no one. Consequently, when he’s asked to tackle Frazzer, a psychotic showman with a deadly desire for destruction, he doesn’t wince. Instead, he grabs some guns, equips some perks, and gets to work.
Familiar action.
ROBOBEAT’s core gameplay loop is familiar. The rogue-lite mechanics weren’t surprising and the sense of risk vs reward was enjoyable. Yet, the blend of gravity-defying moments, challenging arenas, and tough enemies, will push your buttons. Alongside this, you never know whether your abilities or weapons will be suitable for the obstacles you face.
Each chapter is made up of a series of arena-based encounters. In each room, you’ll tackle waves of foes whilst avoiding obstacles, projectiles, and explosions. Additionally, you’ll use the environment to your favour as you wall run, teleport, leap, and hang from ledges.
The exciting level design allows you to tackle your enemies however you wish. Moreover, with special perks at your disposal, you may manipulate each encounter to your favour. It was a great feeling when you combined death-defying leaps with a beast-matching barrage of bullets.
ROBOBEAT is a neon-infused dream.
The claustrophobic nature of each refined arena may feel uncomfortable. Yet, the small spaces enhance the sense of drama and danger. Additionally, the layers of unknown elements work extremely well. I adored the hearty blend of wonderment and fear. What’s more, facing an army of increasingly tough opponents with no knowledge of my terrain tested my ability and resolve.
The impressive mixture of dull greys and eye-catching neon was spectacular. On top of this, there was a sense of “Super Hot” as each character had a vivid and unmissable radiated hue. Furthermore, the clean animation and lack of bugs and glitches make this an enjoyable title.
Where ROBOBEAT excels is its awesome soundtrack. The crunching tunes are dramatic and aggressive. As such, every song has a layer of danger and angst that gets your blood pumping. Yet, if you don’t like the incredible soundtrack, you can create a customised playlist. Subsequently, you can listen to your favourite track as you mow down every enemy.
Tough to master.
Though the basics are relatively easy to grasp, mastering every element wasn’t so straightforward. The developers have incorporated an array of unusual perks and weaponry to perfect. As such, there is plenty of trial and error along the way.
The core concept may be familiar, but I never tired of what was required of me. Thanks to the procedurally generated action, you never know what will happen. Moreover, the large roster of foes will test your skills. Consequently, this has mountains of replay value and longevity.
ROBOBEAT is a great indie title.
I can’t imagine ROBOBEAT being on too many radars, and that’s a shame. This strange rhythm-based FPS blends some much-loved elements, creating a well-trodden but enjoyable experience. I adored the exceptional aesthetics and the testing gameplay. However, a lack of originality holds it back. Yet, despite this minor complaint, I love it and recommend buying it here! Can you complete your job and get your bounty? Pick a gun, choose your perks, and allow the beat to do the rest.
