Ball x Pit is a Game Pass title that has been out for a few months. I admit that I should have reviewed it sooner, but it slipped through the net. Accordingly, I’m making up for lost time as I delve into this fantastic indie experience. It is a single-player endeavour that is perfect for consoles or handheld devices. Furthermore, it is hellishly addictive as it combines multiple genres to great effect.
This hybrid survival rogue-like was developed by Kenny Sun and published by Devolver Digital. It is a simple-to-understand game that combines special abilities with Arkanoid-style physics. Moreover, there is a Vampire Survivor progression approach that enhances longevity and replay value. However, some potential tedious elements could annoy you.
Ball x Pit is the phoenix that rises from the flame.
The legendary city of Ballbylon has been destroyed. The people flee, and a giant pit forms in the aftermath. This bottomless chasm offers rewards for the bravest of fighters. Yet, bravery can only get you so far. Death is all but guaranteed, and it’ll take an exceptional talent to return alive. Consequently, 15+ heroes test their skills and special abilities against the unknown and danger of the dark.
The deadly story is just a small part of what makes Ball x Pit a fantastic title. The base building, unique skills, and block-breaking mechanics help to create an addictive and testing game. However, understanding the fundamentals and getting to grips with things was an easy task. Unlocking everything isn’t easy, and this creates a sense of grind. This didn’t bother me as I played it casually. Moreover, experiencing a new gameplay style was as exciting and challenging as it was interesting.
Upgrades.
Like other roguelikes, there are temporary and permanent upgrades to discover. The temp options require players to use fusion, fission, and evolution to develop their ball. This requires a change in approach as your ball bounces from surface to surface. Moreover, you’ll unlock lasers, warriors, and much more. As things progress, your choices reduce, but your hero becomes ridiculously strong. This should have made things easy, but the gameplay curve is nicely balanced. The result is a game that rarely gets ahead of itself.
Once you leave the pit, base building, character attributes, and meta-progression take over. You must gather resources once per round to help unlock new buildings. With 70 unique structures and blueprints to gather, there is plenty to change the way things play out. Additionally, you’ll unlock new heroes with their own set of skills and special attacks to try out. Subsequently, each playthrough is as fresh or familiar as you like.
Ball x Pit looks great.
This genre has a tendency to be dark, sombre, and a little ugly. Ball x Pit doesn’t break this mould with its oppressive aesthetic. The balls flit and flow with ease. Furthermore, the XP orbs are vivid to juxtapose the earthy background. With so much going on, this could have suffered from frame rate problems. Luckily, this isn’t the case as it performs to a high standard.
The audio is dramatic and loud. However, it isn’t annoying, and I enjoyed the fantasy edge and the often uncomfortable moments. The constant pop of balls and the simple sound effects create a rudimentary soundscape that works on many levels.
To move or not to move?
Do you want to be nimble and avoid trouble, or do you want to focus on your balls? Either way, there are advantages and disadvantages. If you don’t move, you’ll be in trouble. However, too much movement can lead to being overwhelmed. Therefore, you must balance your approach if you wish to get through every level.
Replay value is off the chart. There are plenty of characters to unlock and loads of combinations to play with. Moreover, the city won’t rebuild itself. Consequently, you’ll lose many hours tackling every aspect of this addictive game.
Ball x Pit is a brilliant addition to the genre.
This genre is a little saturated, and indie devs love to try different themes with limited originality. Thankfully, Ball x Pit is a unique hybrid that gets things right. Moreover, it is on Game Pass, and it’s great if you love handheld gaming. Accordingly, I love it and recommend buying it here! Can you rebuild Ballbylon? Choose your hero, master your abilities, and see how deep the pit is.
