Hammerwatch

89%
Game Brain Score Based on 4,386 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
Hammerwatch Game Cover
Hammerwatch 2 is a delightful enough RPG romp held back by some issues that seem to cling stubbornly to the era that inspired it.
Starting at $1.28Buy now
Get on Steam

"Hammerwatch is a Fantasy Hack and Slash game with outstanding graphics, stellar music, and exceptional gameplay. Play solo or with up to four players in local, online, or LAN co-op. Customize your experience with adjustable difficulty, character development, and unlockable skills. With mod and editing support, there's lots of replayability in this action-adventure game."

  • Mac OS
  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Linux
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

89%
Audience ScoreBased on 4,386 reviews
gameplay163 positive mentions
grinding90 negative mentions
  • Fun and engaging gameplay, especially in co-op mode with friends.
  • Challenging and rewarding with a good variety of classes and secrets to discover.
  • Charming pixel art and a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic dungeon crawlers.
  • Repetitive gameplay with limited enemy variety and long levels can become tedious.
  • Lack of a robust progression system and no inventory or loot mechanics.
  • Difficult to navigate and can be frustrating, especially in single-player mode.
  • gameplay449 mentions

    The gameplay of Hammerwatch is characterized by its simple mechanics and retro gauntlet-style design, making it easy to pick up but often criticized for being repetitive and lacking depth. While many players enjoy the cooperative multiplayer experience and the variety of character classes, others find the gameplay tedious, especially in single-player mode, where it can feel grindy and unengaging. Overall, the game offers a mix of fun and frustration, with its charm lying in its nostalgic appeal and straightforward mechanics.

    • “The gameplay is fantastic; each character is more fun to play than the next.”
    • “The gameplay is smooth and, as far as I've gone, the different classes really seem different.”
    • “Gameplay is straightforward, but surprisingly complex.”
    • “Each new level takes 2-3 times longer to complete than the prior level, with the last level taking literally hours. This is obviously a crutch to make the game longer.”
    • “The gameplay is mind-numbingly simple, but it's redeemed by having a level editor and a reasonably active Steam workshop.”
    • “The gameplay is so bland and boring that I didn't feel any urge to play it past an hour and a half.”
  • graphics377 mentions

    The graphics of Hammerwatch are widely praised for their charming retro pixel art style, reminiscent of classic 8-bit and 16-bit games, which effectively captures the nostalgic feel of old-school RPGs. Many players appreciate the modern enhancements, such as atmospheric lighting effects and customizable visual options, which add depth to the overall aesthetic. While some critiques mention the simplicity and dated appearance of the graphics, the consensus is that they contribute positively to the game's engaging and addictive gameplay experience.

    • “The graphics are a really well-done pixel-style look that does make it look like something from the 90s while having lighting effects that weren't typical back in the day; it just looks right and ages like fine wine.”
    • “The art style is a gorgeous retro look that brings back many fond memories of the 16-bit and 32-bit era.”
    • “Hammerwatch brings back the retro, dungeon crawler style of games, with the pixel graphics adding to the nostalgic feel whilst not making it look cheap and unfinished.”
    • “Graphics look very primitive.”
    • “Unfortunately, pixel graphics and gameplay that's a little too repetitive makes this one barely (just barely) miss out on a thumbs up.”
    • “The graphics: they certainly made the increasingly common mistake - they mistake retro visual style with ugly graphics.”
  • music251 mentions

    The music in the game has received a mixed reception, with many praising its emotional depth and fitting atmosphere, often describing it as "awesome" and "great." However, several users noted that the soundtrack can become repetitive over time, leading some to prefer their own music while playing. Overall, while the soundtrack is generally well-crafted and enhances the gaming experience, a desire for more variety in tracks was a common theme among reviews.

    • “The OST... probably the best game OST in the world, not even kidding. I don't know what Two Feathers had to do to make the OST so emotional.”
    • “The music in this game is literally a masterpiece, fitting the levels and the atmosphere very nicely.”
    • “The music is absolutely awesome, controls are nice, and there's a good atmosphere.”
    • “The music is also repetitive and you should probably put some other music on top of it.”
    • “The same music drones on forever... you can spend hours in the same environments killing the same baddies.”
    • “A few minutes into the game I realized the soundtrack (at least in the first area) is just some generic and uninteresting chiptune music played on loop that added nothing to the mood of the game, so I muted it.”
  • story130 mentions

    The game's story is largely criticized for its minimalism, with many players noting a lack of depth, character development, and engaging plot elements. Most reviews highlight that the narrative is almost non-existent, primarily revolving around a simple premise of navigating dungeons after a bridge collapse, which fails to provide a compelling experience. While some players appreciate the gameplay mechanics and cooperative elements, they express a desire for a more substantial storyline to enhance their overall enjoyment.

    • “The game, while having two good campaigns, is not a story-oriented game.”
    • “The storyline is inconsequential but the game mechanics are very good and surprisingly challenging, especially the expansion campaign.”
    • “The story isn't really there, but the notion of the game isn't story, but classic fun, so it has a pass (considering there isn't really much of a story present).”
    • “There is literally no lore, and the only hint of a plot you get is the opening scene with the broken bridge.”
    • “If you are looking for a story-driven game, you will be disappointed; however, I only wish there was more story to it.”
    • “The game doesn't make me want to play it like a campaign anyhow; it's not like I'm fed story or characterization or anything to keep me attached to a particular playthrough.”
  • replayability128 mentions

    The game's replayability is a mixed bag, with many players praising the inclusion of multiple classes, custom campaigns via Steam Workshop, and various difficulty settings that enhance replay value. However, some reviewers noted that the static dungeon designs and lack of randomly generated content can lead to repetitiveness, diminishing the overall replayability. Overall, while there are elements that encourage replay, such as co-op play and secrets to discover, the absence of procedural generation and varied enemy encounters leaves some players wanting more.

    • “A fun little hack and slash game (at times, bullet hellish) with some awesome replayability value.”
    • “With multiple classes and two medium-length campaigns, this game has a lot of replayability.”
    • “The replayability increases with the modifiers: you can play around with these modifiers to make sessions easier/harder/simply weird.”
    • “Only downside is the low replayability, since the dungeons are premade.”
    • “There is very little replayability as it's the same dungeon, same enemies in the same places every time.”
    • “I do wish the dungeons were randomly generated; it does kill the replay value.”
  • grinding90 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with many players describing it as tedious, repetitive, and unengaging. While some appreciate the fast progression and character development through grinding, the overwhelming sentiment is that the combat and exploration feel sluggish and monotonous, leading to a frustrating experience, especially in solo play. Overall, the game is seen as better suited for those who enjoy grinding mechanics, but many players find it lacks depth and variety, making it a chore rather than an enjoyable experience.

    • “Although it looks and sounds nice, Hammerwatch is a chore to play, due to repetitive combat, sluggish exploration, and grinding.”
    • “The first campaign is grindy and repetitive; the enemies are just the same but stronger, and the bosses are dull.”
    • “It's simply far too grindy.”
  • humor37 mentions

    The humor in the game is widely praised, particularly in multiplayer settings where players experience chaotic and hilarious moments together, often leading to laughter and friendly banter. Many reviews highlight the game's well-placed comedic elements, such as funny secrets and quirky vendor interactions, which enhance the overall enjoyment. While the game can be entertaining solo, it truly shines when played with friends, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement.

    • “Hammerwatch is best played with a group of pals and voice chat because a.) you'll need it to strategize, and b.) it's hilarious fun when your friends run screaming from an army of skeletons.”
    • “The dungeons are sneaky, and there is a lot of well-meaning humor that’s sure to keep your party pleased right to the last missing plank.”
    • “Fair warning though, this game has a hilariously sadistic sense of humor at times.”
  • atmosphere20 mentions

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its engaging pixel art, detailed environments, and masterfully composed music that enhances the overall experience. Players appreciate the effective use of lighting and shadows, which contribute to a moody and immersive setting reminiscent of classic dungeon crawlers. Overall, the combination of visual and auditory elements creates a captivating atmosphere that draws players into the game world.

    • “Pixel art is one of my favorite art styles. Even though the game's simple, the attention to detail on making every three floors feel like something completely different while maintaining the same clues for helping you find secret areas is really amazing. You feel engaged while exploring since you have to keep an eye out for cleverly placed fake walls and passages. The atmosphere is also well set when shadows and lighting are on point, with dark dungeons and corridors moodily lit.”
    • “The music in this game is literally a masterpiece, fitting the levels and the atmosphere very nicely.”
    • “The game feels like a slimmed down Diablo II with a reminiscent atmosphere and franticness.”
    • “When you first enter the game, you will get the feeling of an old school euphoria, as this game is stocked full of a top-down 16-bit atmosphere.”
    • “It has a gorgeous dark-and-moody 16-bit look with solid particle effects that lend to a nostalgic atmosphere while also feeling up-to-date enough to not be grating.”
  • stability19 mentions

    The game's stability is a mixed bag, with many players praising its overall performance and fun gameplay, while others report significant bugs, particularly in co-op modes and the Mac version, leading to crashes and freezes. While some users find it solid and polished, others describe it as excessively buggy, with issues ranging from UI glitches to poor online connectivity. Overall, the experience varies widely, with some players enjoying a smooth game and others facing frustrating technical problems.

    • “Game was bug-free and felt rather polished.”
    • “It runs great on even low-end systems, and it feels satisfying to clear out a dungeon level with hundreds of enemies.”
    • “Runs great on anything.”
    • “Co-op is buggy for me constantly, no matter what I've tried, either on LAN or online (yes, I do have nice internet, it's not that).”
    • “Great game when it works, wouldn't recommend it to a friend as it is so buggy.”
    • “This game has so many bugs, it is way too buggy.”
  • optimization8 mentions

    The game's optimization is a mixed bag; while it offers a variety of classes and is designed for 2-4 player co-op, many users report significant performance issues, particularly on lower-end systems. Some players suggest that turning off certain graphical effects can improve performance, but overall, the lack of optimization and absence of a tutorial detract from the experience. Conversely, those with high-end systems may find the game runs smoothly, especially given its retro visual style.

    • “There are several classes with different skill paths you can take, and the game is optimized for 2-4 player co-op.”
    • “Performance-wise, assuming you turn off the bloom effect, this game should run on a rotten potato.”
    • “If you're looking for a fun RPG that will run smoothly on any system, then give this a try.”
    • “I guess the dev didn't take the time to optimize the performance, but I would like that he did.”
    • “This game might be alright with friends... but I gave it a good 60 minutes of playtime and not only is it not optimized, there is no tutorial (by the way, attack is the up arrow at least for my character), and it even decided to give me one last 'f you' when I quit and it stopped responding...”
    • “If they optimized it more and made the gameplay better, it would be more fun.”
  • character development5 mentions

    Character development in the game is praised for its balance and strategic depth, allowing players to leverage unique strengths and weaknesses in both cooperative and solo play. While some reviews highlight a well-designed system reminiscent of classic dungeon crawlers like Diablo, others feel that certain games, such as Hammerwatch, lack depth in character mechanics, making them less engaging despite their nostalgic appeal. Overall, the effectiveness of character development varies, with some titles excelling and others falling short.

    • “Every character should have their own strengths and weaknesses exploited and used to effect in the game in a balanced and fun way, which can provide satisfaction in co-op, especially where players examine the best character to use at the time. This also gives solo players the opportunity to strategize and observe their surroundings to exploit specific enemies they are weak against, rather than just brute forcing with greater damage numbers, which halts any impression of overpowered character design.”
    • “The maps, the boss fights, the classes, and the character development system are very well designed.”
    • “Every character should have their own strengths and weaknesses exploited and used to effect in the game in a balanced and fun way, which can provide satisfaction in co-op, especially where players examine the best person to use at the time. This gives the solo player the need to strategize and observe their surroundings to exploit a specific enemy they are weak against, instead of just brute forcing with greater damage numbers, halting any impression of overpowered character design.”
    • “A quick few runthroughs of Hammerwatch, a top-down dungeon crawler style game with great looking pixel art and real challenge, but a little lacking in the character development and mechanics. It's more of a homage to games of yesteryear; it's got heart and style, but it just isn't exactly a thrill to play. Worth a shot if you like one-and-done style games, but there is better out there.”
    • “This game feels like Diablo 1 or 2 with the endless dungeon crawling and character development.”
  • emotional4 mentions

    The game's emotional impact is significantly enhanced by its outstanding original soundtrack, which many users consider among the best ever. The narrative and music combine to create deeply moving moments, with some players reporting that the ending left them in tears for an extended period. Overall, while the game is well-received, its emotional weight may deter repeated playthroughs for some.

    • “The OST... probably the best game OST in the world, not even kidding. I don't know what Two Feathers had to do to make the OST so emotional.”
    • “The ending made me cry.”
    • “Made me cry for over a month. 10/10”
  • monetization2 mentions

    The monetization strategy of the game has been criticized as a potential cash grab, raising skepticism among users about the reliance on real money for in-game purchases.

    • “Another indie game for a quick cash grab (yeah, I was that skeptical).”
    • “Does this game use real money for in-game purchases?”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

57% average critic score

Buy Hammerwatch

Play time

9hMedian play time
39hAverage play time
4-24hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 32 analyzed playthroughs

Videos

Similar Games