Players Like...

❤ Unique Single-Axis Tactical Combat

The core gameplay revolves around a novel single-axis movement system, where players can only move their ship left and right. This adds a spatial awareness element, as pilots must precisely position their vessel to line up attacks and dodge enemy fire. Reviewers praise this mechanic, saying it "throws you for a loop" and refreshes the tactics genre.

❤ Deckbuilding Flexibility

In building their deck, players choose from eight distinct crew members, each with a unique set of cards and playstyles. This allows for a wide variety of potential strategies and synergies to explore, such as the "Wiggler" build that combines evasion cards with the Strafe ability. Reviewers highlight the deckbuilding flexibility and replayability offered by the diverse crew combinations.

❤ Progression Through Unlocks

While each run randomizes the encounters, there is a sense of persistent progression. Defeating the final boss unlocks a new crew member's memories, encouraging players to experiment with different compositions to uncover the full narrative. This meta-progression keeps fans engaged beyond individual sessions.

❤ Challenging but Accessible Difficulty

The game generally strikes a good balance between challenge and accessibility. While the difficulty can be steep, especially at higher settings, reviewers note it never feels unfairly punishing. The 20-40 minute runtime per run also helps make it more forgiving compared to other roguelikes.

❤ Charming Presentation

Cobalt Core's charming presentation further enhances the enjoyment of the core deckbuilding mechanics. The pixel art visuals, witty writing, and excellent soundtrack create a delightful overall experience that reviewers highlight as a standout aspect of the game.