Players Like...

❤ Procedurally Generated Environments

The game divides its map into set locations, such as boss rooms and ability shrines, but randomly generates the pathways between these points each time the player dies or warps to the central Sanctuary. This ensures players cannot simply memorize a fixed route, and must adapt to the changing layout on each playthrough. The randomized rooms also cause treasures and other resources to respawn, providing an incentive to continually explore the world.

❤ Challenging Horde Combat

Sundered's combat focuses on defending against dynamic hordes of enemies. Occasionally, the game will trigger an "alarm", summoning waves of foes that players must fend off. This horde-based combat creates a sense of frantic, unpredictable action, as players must manage groups of diverse enemies that spawn rapidly. While some have found this combat style frustrating, many reviewers praised it for the heightened tension and skill required to survive the onslaughts.

❤ Expansive Skill Tree and Perk System

As players progress, they unlock a large skill tree, allowing them to enhance the protagonist's core abilities and stats. This progression system provides a sense of gradual empowerment, as players can tailor the protagonist's capabilities to their preferred playstyle. Additionally, the game features a perk system, where players can equip various modifiers that offer unique benefits and drawbacks. This adds an additional layer of customization, as players must balance the advantages and disadvantages of different perk combinations.

❤ Intense Boss Battles

The game features a series of large, imposing boss encounters that put the player's skills to the test. These set-piece battles often incorporate platforming elements alongside the combat, forcing players to carefully manage their positioning and attacks. Many reviewers highlighted these boss fights as a particular strength, praising their unique designs and the sense of accomplishment that comes from defeating them.

❤ Rewarding Exploration

While the procedurally generated environments can be disorienting, the game encourages thorough exploration. By uncovering new areas, players can discover shortcuts, hidden upgrades, and additional narrative context. The ability to gradually unlock new skills that open up previously inaccessible regions further reinforces the classic Metroidvania-style progression. Reviewers noted that the sense of discovery and the desire to uncover every secret are strong motivators throughout the experience.