Swordship is a roguelike where dodging is your best weapon. Trick your enemies into killing each other, steal containers to upgrade your ship and unlock new ways to play. Dodge, dive, die, learn, repeat.
The game removes traditional shooting mechanics, focusing entirely on dodging enemy attacks and maneuvering your ship to trick opponents into destroying each other. This "dodge 'em up" approach requires precise timing and quick reflexes as you must position your ship to avoid damage while simultaneously lining up enemy shots to take out other foes. Many reviews praise this innovative gameplay twist, describing it as a fresh and exciting change to the tried-and-true shoot 'em up formula.
Players widely regard the game as challenging, demanding skill and practice to master. You must learn enemy attack patterns, practice efficient movement, and strategically position your ship to survive. However, the steep learning curve is offset by a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment as you improve your dodging abilities and unlock new upgrades and modifiers. The game's roguelike elements, which include permanent unlocks and score-based progression, encourage repeated attempts and provide a strong motivation to keep trying and get better.
The way enemies interact with each other and the environment is a key aspect of the gameplay. By maneuvering your ship to redirect enemy fire, you can set up chain reactions where opponents inadvertently destroy one another. This creates a dynamic, reactive gameplay loop where you must constantly adapt to new situations and take advantage of emerging opportunities. Reviews highlight how this system adds an extra layer of strategy and skill to the experience, elevating the core dodge-focused mechanics.
Across the board, players praise the game's tight, responsive controls and the feel of maneuvering the ship. The constant speed and precise movement are essential to the gameplay, allowing you to make split-second dodges and position your vessel with pinpoint accuracy. Many reviews note that the controls feel intuitive and satisfying, contributing to the game's overall sense of fluidity and responsiveness.