Is it really worth anticipating the gameplay of the latest installment? Orcs Must Die! is now in its fifth installment after becoming a popular tower defense series. Dive onto this Orcs Must Die game review prepared to explore the gameplay depths.
Gameplay: Traps, Combat, and Chaos
This Orcs Must Die! game review has to say that despite the number of installments, they still stay true to their formula. It kept the gameplay of placing traps to create death mazes for incoming orcs’ waves while in combat as Warmage. This was the same gameplay that made everyone ride the waves of Orcs Must Die!
Well, the game boasts trap-laying mechanics where players can combine deadly contraptions to create specific kill zones. This can contain floor spikes, wall arrows, or even acid showers depending on your weapons. Plus, they improved the game’s environment through lighting effects. Players can experience nighttime and rain conditions as extra appeal of the game.
The Roguelite Evolution
Now, what does really change in the new Orcs Must Die!? Unlike the previous titles with linear campaigns, they introduce roguelite elements this time. This addition allowed players to tackle randomly selected stages with various modifiers.
After each wave, players are given the option to choose from random upgrade cards throughout their run. Sometimes, they’ll have to pray on their luck to earn variety and enhancements for playthrough. Although some took note that these upgrades are a bit lackluster for minimal statistical improvements.
Multiplayer: Better Together
Push the game to its fullest experience and enjoyment by having friends join your play. The fifth installment, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap has excellent cooperative play that any player and their circle can enjoy. The game allows up to four players in its multiplayer mode.
With the increased player count, they can form even more complex strategies and teamwork for character synergy. Each of the six Warmages has its own abilities and skills that serve as players’ game advantages.
They can choose from cat warrior Sophie with a skeleton companion, Wren’s cloning abilities, and more. Ultimately, the multiplayer mode will help players have an easier path against tougher challenges.
Should You Play It?
If you’ve been a fan of Orcs Must Die since the first installment, then you should definitely try this out. However, if you’re a casual player then it’ll be best to weigh on its features to avoid wasting your time. Overall, this Orcs Must Die! game review barely saw new features and improvements in the title.
As mentioned above, it keeps the same gameplay loop with other games in the franchise that many probably experienced already. Yet, it’ll be difficult to look away from this if you enjoy tower defense games. It offers an excellent and engaging trap-based strategy gameplay that has been tested many times.
Plus, it serves as a great game to start with friends for a four-player cooperative experience. Although limited, it still has a diverse character roster that equips each with unique abilities. On the technical side, the Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap has better visual and lightning effects that add to game’s atmosphere.
For its disadvantages, some players may see the runs as lengthy and grindy which can discourage them. Also, the progression system isn’t gratifying enough for players to receive which is a bit disappointing. The later stages feel unbalanced for featuring bullet-sponge enemies.
Conclusion
Was the anticipation worth it? That’s something this Orcs Must Die game review can’t answer. While it’s good they stick with the gameplay formula, it is unfortunate that they barely added new mechanics. It could have enhanced the gameplay experience of both newcomers and veterans of the game. Still, you should play Orcs Must Die! for an underwater tower defense game.