Dungeon Clawler: Let me tell you something, dear reader—I am not a person blessed with good luck. When I play roguelikes, tabletop RPGs, or trading card games, I always seem to get thrown into the grinder by fate itself.
I get bad card draws, low RNG rolls, and a knack for rolling natural 20s when it doesn’t matter, followed by a measly 4 when the world is at stake.
So, when I took Dungeon Clawler—a “claw machine roguelike”—for a spin after its appearance in Steam’s Next Fest last week, I was expecting to be frustrated. And let me tell you, I was.
But with that frustration came an inevitable desire to keep shoving nickels into the proverbial machine.
The Basics of Dungeon Clawler
Dungeon Clawler combines the elements of a roguelike and a claw machine. In this game, instead of building a deck, you’re adding to a pool of items that get dropped into a claw machine.
Your actions on any given turn are determined by which items the claw picks up.
The game is simple yet captivating. You navigate through dungeons, face various enemies, and try to survive as long as possible.
The twist is that your success largely depends on your luck with the claw machine. Each pull can bring you powerful weapons, helpful potions, or useless junk. This randomness adds a layer of unpredictability to the game, making each run unique.
Frustration and Addiction
As someone with notoriously bad luck, I found Dungeon Clawler to be a challenging experience.
The claw machine mechanic can be incredibly frustrating when it doesn’t go your way. There were times when I desperately needed a health potion but ended up with a rusty old sword instead.
However, this frustration is part of what makes the game so addictive. Each time the claw missed what I wanted, I felt a stronger urge to try again.
The game has a way of making you believe that the next pull will be the lucky one. This cycle of frustration and hope keeps you coming back for more.
Strategy and Luck
While luck plays a significant role in Dungeon Clawler, there’s also a strategic element. You can influence the pool of items the claw picks from by choosing what to add to it.
This allows you to plan ahead and increase your chances of getting useful items.
Additionally, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different items can help you make better decisions during gameplay.
For example, knowing when to use a powerful weapon versus saving it for a tougher enemy can make a big difference in how far you get in the dungeon.
A Unique Experience
Dungeon Clawler offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other roguelikes. The claw machine mechanic adds an extra layer of challenge and unpredictability.
It’s a game that tests both your strategic thinking and your luck.
The game’s graphics are charming, with a retro aesthetic that complements its quirky concept.
The sound design is also well done, adding to the overall immersion. Each run feels like a new adventure, with different items and enemies to encounter.
Final Thoughts
Dungeon Clawler is not for the faint of heart. It can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you’re not blessed with good luck.
However, it’s also incredibly rewarding. The thrill of finally getting the item you need, after countless failed attempts, is unmatched.
If you’re a fan of roguelikes and enjoy a good challenge, Dungeon Clawler is worth checking out. Just be prepared to experience both the highs and lows of luck-based gameplay.
The game is currently available on Steam, and I highly recommend giving it a try. You might just find yourself hooked on the claw machine madness.
