Throughout its existence, Klei Entertainment has launched a variety of game titles across multiple genres, earning a dedicated following along the way. The company has ventured into puzzle, survival, dungeon crawler, and even deck builder genres. However, one consistent feature that they excel in is the incorporation of roguelike elements in their games.
Klei Entertainment has essentially perfected the craft of creating games where players face an unexpected demise, only to start again. Yet, each restart is made more appealing as players accumulate experience and/or rewards. Among the numerous exceptional games that Klei has released over the years, here are some of the standouts.
10 Eets Munchies
Manipulate Emotions To Crack Puzzles
- Release Date: March 11, 2014
- Platforms: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, iPad
- Genre: Puzzle Platformer
The inaugural game from Klei Entertainment, Eets: Hunger. It’s Emotional , was launched at a time when casual side-scrolling 2D puzzle games were at the peak of their popularity. Players take control of a character named Eets, whose emotions fluctuate depending on what they consume.
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Top 5 Roguelike Strategy Games, Ranked
The combination of roguelike and strategy genres works surprisingly well, as demonstrated by these games.
The actions and capabilities of the characters are determined by their attributes, which influence their behavior at different stages of the game. The objective is to gather all the goodies in the level before finally securing a cake to finish the level. This game was later reimagined as Eets Munchies.
9 Hot Lava
The Ground Is Truly Lava
Hot Lava transforms the classic childhood game, “The floor is lava,” into the foundation of this parkour adventure. Players are tasked with navigating through obstacle courses where the ground is a lethal layer of lava, with a variety of objects scattered on top of it.
Evading the lava may require jumping across classroom desks, household furniture, and even trampolines. Players can also traverse sections by clinging onto beams and using items like pogo sticks to compete against other players, all while the ever-present threat of lava looms beneath them.
8 Invisible Inc.
Strategic Stealth Espionage
In this game, players are given a mission to complete before their adversaries become aware of their presence — a probability that increases the longer they take. Each member of the team possesses unique abilities that can be beneficial, but these abilities must be strategically managed to successfully complete missions.
If players make an error, they will have to face the consequences. The game’s turn-based system allows players to carefully plan their moves, but they must also be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes. The game’s difficulty level increases as players progress, requiring them to constantly refine their strategies.
7 Griftlands
A Strategic Deck Builder with Engaging Lore
Griftlands is a deckbuilding roguelike game that offers a rich gaming experience. The combat is engaging and intricate, the world-building is impressive with captivating characters, and it offers three distinct campaigns for players to delve into.
The game’s art style is reminiscent of a graphic novel, and the dialogue is expertly crafted. This combination draws players into the game’s narrative, motivating them to progress and uncover the unfolding story. The need to restart a run introduces new cards and encourages players to discover fresh strategies.
6 Oxygen Not Included
Managing a Deep Space Colony
Oxygen Not Included is a space colony simulation game where players are tasked with managing resources and maintaining their colony’s infrastructure. The game’s complexity and depth make it a challenging yet rewarding experience.
The game’s mechanics require players to balance resource management with the needs of their colonists. This includes ensuring a steady supply of oxygen, food, and water, as well as managing waste and maintaining morale. The game’s difficulty increases as the colony grows, requiring players to constantly adapt their strategies.
The game’s graphics are charming and colorful, and the colonists’ animations add a touch of humor to the otherwise serious task of colony management. The game’s complexity and depth make it a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Oxygen Not Included is a great choice for players who enjoy strategy games and are looking for a challenging and engaging gaming experience.
The Intricacies of Oxygen Not Included
- Available On
- PC
- Launch Date
- May 18, 2017
- Created By
- Klei Entertainment
- Game Type
- Simulation , Survival , Management
Colony-building games are notorious for their complexity, with numerous elements to manage. Oxygen Not Included is no exception, challenging players to manage a growing crew of survivors in space.
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Oxygen Not Included: Top 5 Base Designs
There are countless ways to construct a base in Oxygen Not Included, and these designs will provide players with the best chance of creating a long-lasting base.
Players must juggle various resources, including food, oxygen, and temperature. Overabundance of certain resources can also pose problems, such as excessive heat leading to plant death.
5 Shank
An Immersive 2D Action Adventure
- Launch Date: August 24, 2010
- Available On: Linux, Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Game Type: Hack & Slash
Shank is a visually striking 2D action game that unfolds in a side-scrolling format. The game equips players with a diverse arsenal of weapons to use as they navigate through a linear storyline. While the game lacks replayability, a single playthrough is sufficient to experience all that the game has to offer.
One of the main criticisms of the game was its less-than-intuitive dodging and combo system, which often felt sluggish and awkward. This was an area that Klei Entertainment improved upon in the game’s sequel. Despite the somewhat clunky controls, players can execute fluid combos using a variety of melee weapons and firearms throughout the game.
4. Shank 2
An Enhanced Sequel to Shank
Shank 2, released on February 7, 2012, is available on platforms such as Linux, Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. This Hack & Slash genre game takes the foundation laid by its predecessor and elevates it to new heights. Although the story campaign is relatively brief, the game introduces a novel endless survival mode that can be played cooperatively.
The combat system in Shank 2 has been refined to provide one of the most fluid experiences for action game enthusiasts. The battles against individual elites and hordes of lesser foes are equally gratifying, making the switch between different enemies smoother than ever before.
3. Mark Of The Ninja: Remastered
A 2D Stealth Platformer with a Twist
Mark Of The Ninja: Remastered, developed by Klei Entertainment, was released on October 9, 2018. It is available on platforms such as PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch. This game is a stealth platformer that fully utilizes its 2D environment. Players can sneak from one shadow to another to evade enemies and hide when a moving light source approaches.
This remastered version of the game offers players the opportunity to experience the thrill of being a ninja in a modern setting. The game’s mechanics encourage strategic thinking and precision, making it a must-play for fans of the stealth genre.
Exploring the Intricacies of Gameplay
The game’s unique feature of blurring certain parts of the background allows players to use the level as a sort of minimap. However, the uncertainty of potential enemies lurking in nearby rooms adds an element of suspense. Additionally, players can accumulate points based on their performance, enhancing the game’s replay value as they strive for better results.
Rotwood: A Co-op Roguelike Dungeon Crawler Masterpiece
Rotwood is a roguelike dungeon crawler game that places a significant emphasis on cooperative play. It offers players a vast array of weapons to experiment with and find the one that best suits their playing style. The game allows for the discovery of various combos through different button combinations, and each weapon can possess unique skills.
Rotwood: Game Details
Rotwood is available on the PC platform and was released on April 24, 2024. The game was developed by Klei Entertainment and falls under the Action, Dungeon Crawler genres.
Gameplay Mechanics in Rotwood
One of the unique features of Rotwood is the ability to change armor pieces, which can affect the player’s weight class. This, in turn, can make dodging either easier or more challenging. While weapons and armor are permanent unlocks, players will lose all powers and upgrades they accumulate from each run. However, with each successful run, new challenges become available, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.
Don’t Starve Together: A Survival Game with a Unique Artistic Style
Don’t Starve Together is a survival game that stands out with its delightful paper cutout style. This unique artistic approach adds a distinct charm to the game, making it a visual treat for players.
Similar Games to Rotwood
If you enjoyed playing Rotwood and are looking for similar games, there are several great options available. Games like Lost Castle, Ravenswatch, and Cult of the Lamb offer similar gameplay mechanics and are worth checking out.
The Thrill of Survival in Don’t Starve Together
- Available On
- PC , PS4 , Xbox One , Switch
- Launch Date
- December 15, 2014
- Created By
- Klei Entertainment
- Game Type
- Survival
Don’t Starve is a standout title from Klei Entertainment, first hitting the market in 2013. The game has evolved over time, with numerous updates and expansions. The core gameplay revolves around survival, requiring players to generate light, secure sustenance, and ward off aggressive creatures to stay alive.
The introduction of a cooperative mode, aptly named Don’t Starve Together, was met with widespread acclaim. The game offers a diverse roster of vibrant characters, each brimming with unique traits. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a fun, collaborative gaming experience.
About Klei Entertainment
- Established On
- July 1, 2005
- Location
- Vancouver, Canada
- Parent Organization
- Tencent
