Dungeon Rats (2016)

Dungeon Rats (2016) places players in the role of a newly arrived prisoner at the lowest level of a prison dominated by violent gangs. From this disadvantaged starting point, you must navigate a hostile environment, honing your combat abilities while gathering superior weapons and protective gear to increase your chances of survival. Your journey allows for tactical decision-making, as you can choose to recruit companions to assist in your struggle or operate independently, confronting any adversaries who challenge your path.

Gameplay Mechanics

The game emphasizes a tactical combat system that provides a range of strategic options. Standard attacks allow basic engagement with opponents, while aimed attacks let you target specific body parts for more precise damage. Each weapon type includes unique special attacks such as Whirlwind and Impale, enhancing the depth of combat and requiring players to adapt their tactics to each encounter.

Crafting and Alchemy

Dungeon Rats features an in-depth crafting and alchemy system. Players can forge weapons, create potions, and develop poisons, giving them the tools to prepare for diverse challenges. Experimentation is encouraged with materials such as Liquid Fire and Black Powder, allowing customization of equipment and the creation of tactical advantages that can influence the outcome of battles.

Weapon Variety

The game includes eight distinct weapon categories, each offering different tactical benefits and drawbacks: Daggers, Swords, Axes, Hammers, Spears, Bows, Crossbows, and Throwing Weapons. Mastery of these weapons is essential, as selecting the right tool for each situation can significantly affect combat efficiency and survivability.

Character Customization

Players can fully customize their main character, tailoring skills and attributes to their preferred style of play. Additionally, there are up to ten potential companions, not all of whom are human, who can be recruited to form a party. The maximum party size is four, and the composition of the team impacts combat strategy, skill distribution, and the rate of character progression, as more party members result in fewer skill points per individual and slower leveling.

Challenges and Endings

Dungeon Rats offers 50 challenging battles, requiring tactical thinking and careful resource management. The game includes four different endings, providing multiple paths and replay value. Each choice and combat decision can influence the story's conclusion, emphasizing strategic planning throughout the gameplay experience.

Differences from The Age of Decadence

Significant changes set Dungeon Rats apart from The Age of Decadence. Party-based gameplay, one of the most requested features, is fully implemented. Combat now considers positioning and offers strategic bonuses such as flanking. Manual placement of characters before fights enhances tactical control. Charisma affects both the number and quality of party members, while skill points are distributed among team members, affecting individual growth and combat effectiveness. Additionally, new weapons, armor, and creatures are introduced, enriching the gameplay experience. The game includes three difficulty levels: Nice Guy, Tough Bastard, and Murderous Psychopath, allowing players to select the challenge that best matches their skill and playstyle.

Dungeon Rats is a tough, strategic prison adventure that will test your patience and skill. The combat is deep and tactical, letting you plan attacks carefully and make the most of your weapons and abilities. Crafting and alchemy add another layer of fun for those who like experimenting and building their own gear.

The game can be brutal, but that’s part of its charm. Recruiting allies or going solo changes the experience, and each choice feels meaningful. With multiple endings and challenging fights, it keeps you thinking and planning every step.

We recommend Dungeon Rats if you enjoy strategy, character customization, and a game that doesn’t hold your hand. It’s not for everyone, but fans of careful, tactical gameplay will find it rewarding and memorable.