KeeperRL is a retro dungeon simulator with roguelike and RPG elements. Take the role of an evil keeper and build a formidable dungeon. Recruit sinister minions, equip and train them to explore the world and fight the forces of good.
At the heart of the gameplay is managing your expansive underground lair. Dig out rooms and tunnels, constructing facilities like sleeping quarters, training rooms, and crafting stations to accommodate your growing army. Ensure your dungeon is well-defended, utilizing traps, guard areas, and chokepoints to fend off invaders.
Choose from multiple playable factions, each with a unique keeper and playstyle. Opt for a Dark Wizard mastering black magic, a Necromancer building an undead horde, or a Goblin King leading a greenskin army. Your faction selection dramatically impacts your gameplay experience and the design of your dungeon.
The world is procedurally generated, with creatures wielding a variety of equipment and special abilities. Permadeath is in effect, so you must carefully plan your tactics, as the death of your keeper results in a game over and the need to start a new run.
Expand your domain by exploring the expansive world map, raiding dangerous locations for loot and infamy. Your dungeon can also be vertically expanded, with multiple levels to excavate. Integrate dungeons created by other players, adding a community-driven element to your experience.
When engaging in combat, you can take direct control of your minions, utilizing a simultaneous turn-based system. This allows for tactical decision-making, as you must consider the placement and abilities of your units and those of your enemies.
The game's lone developer is praised for their dedication and responsiveness, actively engaging with the community and incorporating player feedback. The thriving modding scene and online dungeon sharing features further enhance the title's depth and replayability.