Vampire Survivors Review: A Simple Yet Addictive Masterpiece

When it comes to indie gaming, Vampire Survivors stands out as a near-perfect gem. Despite its deceptively simple premise, this game has earned its place as a must-have for gamers, especially those with a Steam Deck. With over 100 hours sunk into this title (and no regrets), I can confidently say that this game deserves a solid 9/10 rating.

Gameplay: A Simple Concept Done Right

At its core, Vampire Survivors is a minimalist rogue-lite survival game where you fend off endless waves of enemies while upgrading your weapons and skills. The controls are simple, but the strategy is anything but. Every run feels fresh, thanks to the variety of weapons, skills, and enemy waves.

The magic of the game lies in its constant progression. Just when you think you've mastered the mechanics, you unlock new weapons, discover synergies, and evolve your gear into something truly powerful. Garlic becomes a force to be reckoned with, and you'll find yourself testing strategies to see how many enemies you can obliterate in one second. Spoiler: it's a lot.

Replayability: Endless Fun with DLC

The base game is already a steal at just $3 USD, but the addition of five DLC packs takes the experience to another level. Each DLC introduces new characters, maps, weapons, and challenges, making every playthrough feel like a brand-new adventure. The depth and variety they add are incredible, especially for such a low price point.

Co-op: The Almost Perfect Element

While Vampire Survivors excels in almost every area, the co-op mode leaves room for improvement. It’s a fun addition, but it doesn’t quite match the polish of the solo experience. With a bit more refinement, it could easily elevate the game to a perfect 10/10.

Addiction Factor: Hard to Put Down

I started playing this game as a "breather" between heavier titles like Elden Ring and Black Desert Online. Yet, somehow, I kept coming back to Vampire Survivors. It’s so addicting that I contemplated uninstalling it just to stop playing and focus on other games. But honestly, why would I? It’s that good.

The gameplay loop of experimenting, strategizing, and perfecting your runs is endlessly satisfying. The thrill of evolving your weapons and seeing your AOE attacks decimate hordes of enemies is unmatched. Whether you're playing for 10 minutes or 10 hours, it’s hard not to get hooked.

Verdict: A Must-Have Indie Game

With 25 hours to 100% completion, and infinity hours of gameplay, Vampire Survivors offers insane value for money. It’s the perfect game for quick sessions or marathon runs, and its compatibility with the Steam Deck makes it even more accessible. While the co-op could use some tweaks, the game’s charm, depth, and addictiveness make it a must-play.

Rating: 9/10
If you’re looking for an indie title that delivers endless fun at an unbeatable price, Vampire Survivors is your game. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself playing it long after you planned to stop. Dracula might have some competition—because in this game, you’re the real monster.