In Caveblazers, you step into the boots of a nameless adventurer exploring a treacherous cave system in search of an ancient power. Inside, you'll face fierce monsters, dark magic, towering bosses and a host of deadly surprises. The game mixes smooth 2D platforming with classic roguelike features – each cave is procedurally generated, loot drops are random and new perks, abilities and starting weapons can be unlocked through continued play. With permadeath in the mix, the result is a high-stakes experience full of tension and replayability.
Caveblazers features a combat system that emphasizes precision and quick reflexes. Fights unfold in classic 2D side-scrolling style, using melee weapons, bows or magic – each with distinct hit patterns and timing. Swords and axes are ideal for aggressive close-range attacks, while bows encourage smart positioning and a more cautious approach. The game's charming pixel art style is enhanced by punchy, blood-splattered hit animations that give each battle a visceral edge.
Potions in Caveblazers add an unpredictable twist to the gameplay, as their effects are completely unknown at the start of each run. Some provide helpful boosts like damage resistance, health regeneration or faster movement, while others can poison, burn or even blind you. This uncertainty introduces a strategic layer to the already demanding combat: do you drink a potion in a safe moment to identify it, or gamble in a crisis and hope for the best? Smart timing can turn the tide in tough battles – while bad luck might drop you dead on the spot.
Reviews: Smooth gameplay and high addictive potential – but a steep learning curve.
Caveblazers, developed by Deadpan Games in partnership with publisher Yogscast Games, was released in May 2017. Since then, it has gathered over 3,200 user reviews on Steam, with 86% rating the game positively. Players often highlight the tight controls and high addictive potential as standout features. The wide range of items, perks and playstyles keeps the experience fresh and fuels plenty of “just one more run” moments. The game’s genre-blending approach is also well received, frequently described as a successful mix of Spelunky, Risk of Rain and Terraria.
Despite its strengths, Caveblazers has faced criticism from the Steam community for its steep difficulty and punishing learning curve. The endgame, in particular, is often seen as heavily reliant on RNG, leading to frustration and moments that can feel unfair. Some players also point to the randomness of potions and item placement as a drawback – arguing that a single unlucky event can derail an entire run. On Metacritic, the game holds a User Score of 6.9, though it does not have an official Metascore.
92% discount on Steam
Caveblazers is normally priced at around $10 on Steam, but until May 22, it's available at a 92% discount for under $1. According to SteamDB, this deal appears regularly – most recently during the Spring Sale in March. So far, there hasn’t been a deeper discount than this.
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