Deflector is a top down action rogue-lite set in a deadly microcosm. Dive deep into hostile worlds teeming with viruses. Strike down increasingly challenging enemies with your weapons and their own deflected projectiles. Live, die, grow stronger and become powerful enough to reach the Source!
Players praise the game's core mechanic of deflecting enemy projectiles back at them. By timing their deflections precisely, players can not only avoid damage, but also turn the tables on their foes, reflecting their attacks. Reviewers find this feature to be the standout element of the gameplay, describing it as fun, satisfying, and integral to the challenging combat.
To effectively deflect projectiles, players must maintain excellent positional awareness and precise control over their movement. Reviews highlight how this creates a compelling gameplay loop of dashing through intricate bullet patterns, timing deflections perfectly, and positioning themselves to maximize damage output. The need to simultaneously avoid, deflect, and counterattack keeps the gameplay fast-paced and demanding.
The game features a roster of distinct playable characters, each with their own unique weapons, abilities, and ways of utilizing the deflect mechanic. Reviewers praise this character diversity, noting how it allows for different approaches and playstyles to tackle the game's challenges. Mastering each character's strengths and adapting one's tactics accordingly is a key part of the game's appeal.
Between runs, players can unlock permanent upgrades and new character options. Reviewers highlight how these persistent progression systems provide a sense of growth and meaningful choices, as players decide which upgrades and characters to focus on. The ability to customize one's build and playstyle from run to run is cited as a core part of the game's replayability.
While the gameplay is praised, reviews also note that the game can be quite challenging, particularly when it comes to bosses and higher-level enemies. Successfully navigating the intense bullet patterns and timing deflections correctly is described as demanding but immensely satisfying when executed well. The steep but rewarding learning curve is a key part of the game's appeal for many players.