Schism is a challenging action roguelike RPG with guns, gods, leveling, and frequency-switching action. The combination of deep leveling and stat systems, full gun customization, deity worship, intense bullet hell combat, and difficult bosses make for a unique and highly replayable experience.
The game features "Ikaruga-esque" bullet-dodging mechanics, allowing players to switch between red and blue frequencies to become immune to corresponding projectiles. Reviewers highlight how this dynamic system introduces a refreshing layer of strategy and skill, as players must rapidly change colors to avoid incoming fire.
The game offers an extensive progression system with 8 different stats to invest in, combined with 14 unique gods and over 120 relics. This vast array of customization options enables players to tailor their character to their preferred playstyle, whether they want to focus on offense, defense, or synergistic item combinations.
Through clever item and ability combinations, players can sometimes create "broken" or enormously powerful builds that allow them to effortlessly clear rooms and decimate bosses. Reviewers liken these experiences to a "dopamine rush," where the player feels unstoppable.
Despite the potential for overpowered builds, the game's bullet hell-inspired rooms and formidable boss battles still require quick reflexes, pattern recognition, and strategic positioning to overcome. Reviewers praise this balance of deep customization and high-stakes combat.
The game's procedurally-generated levels, enemies, and item drops contribute to its high replayability, as no two runs are exactly alike. The "endless mode" after the final boss further encourages players to see how far they can push their builds.