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Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap

Regardless of the multiplayer woes I faced, having a small group that played together regularly kept the game fun and fresh. If you have a reliable friend or friends who can play with you, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is a very fun game. If not, it can still be fun for a solo player, but a lot of the magic from co-op, one of the major draws to the game, is completely lost.Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is a lot of fun despite the massively overlooked quality-of-life features that are missing from the game. A few small updates could really put a shine on this otherwise flawed gem.
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap Game Cover
75%Game Brain Score
gameplay, graphics
story, optimization
77% User Score Based on 2,312 reviews
Critic Score 71%Based on 5 reviews

Platforms

Xbox Series X|SPCXbox Game PassPlaystation 5CloudXbox Cloud GamingXboxWindowsPlayStation
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap Game Cover

About

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is a single player and multiplayer shooter game with fantasy, warfare and comedy themes. It was developed by Robot Entertainment and was released on January 28, 2025. It received mostly positive reviews from both critics and players.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is an action-packed third-person shooter and trap defense game. Evolve as an orc-slaying War Mage through rogue-lite choices and obliterate, eviscerate, and incinerate massive hordes with up to four players.

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77%
Audience ScoreBased on 2,312 reviews
gameplay129 positive mentions
story49 negative mentions

  • The game offers a fun blend of tower defense and roguelike elements, making each run feel unique.
  • The graphics and art style are vibrant and engaging, enhancing the overall experience.
  • The developers are actively listening to community feedback and making improvements, which shows commitment to the game's growth.
  • The game lacks a traditional campaign mode, which may disappoint fans of previous titles.
  • There are performance issues and bugs that can disrupt gameplay, especially in multiplayer.
  • The limited number of maps and traps can lead to repetitive gameplay after a few hours.
  • gameplay
    512 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay in "Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap" retains the core mechanics of its predecessors, focusing on tower defense and action combat, but introduces roguelike elements that add variability and replayability. While many players appreciate the fresh take and strategic depth provided by new mechanics like the barricade limit and threads, others find the gameplay repetitive and lacking in innovation compared to earlier titles. Overall, the experience is described as fun and engaging, particularly in multiplayer, but marred by issues such as clunky controls, limited tutorials, and a perceived decline in the series' charm.

    • “The gameplay is smooth, satisfying, and full of those classic OMD moments where you chain together the perfect trap combo and just sit back, grinning like a smug war mage.”
    • “The core gameplay loop is fun as always and most of the changes to the formula work for me.”
    • “The gameplay is great, controls are good, levels are awesome, traps are great and there are many chances to improve your loadout.”
    • “Overwhelming, yet shallow gameplay.”
    • “The gameplay loop went from using strategy and placement to create killboxes and keep the orcs from getting to the rift... to just placing whatever, wherever, since they'll make it to the rift anyway.”
    • “The core gameplay loop is severely flawed.”
  • story
    459 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's story aspect is largely criticized for its absence, with many players noting that it lacks a dedicated campaign or narrative progression, which was a hallmark of previous titles in the series. Instead, the gameplay is structured around a roguelite format with randomized missions and minimal storytelling, leading to a feeling of emptiness and repetitiveness. While some players appreciate the dynamic mission structure and character progression, the overall consensus is that the game misses the engaging story elements that fans have come to expect from the franchise.

    • “Despite not having a full-fledged story, the game is full of subtle lore drops, given both in the level design, in sentinel dialog, in player dialog, and in hub character dialog as well.”
    • “I like orcs must die, played 1 to 3, this one is missing out on the story campaign the witty banter that the war mages did during the missions and cut scenes, it gave the characters personalities.”
    • “The campaign has been replaced by just a roguelike system of mission after mission that you can gamble forward with skulls earned in previous missions to bet whether you survive the next.”
    • “No proper progress, no campaign, almost no story except 'we found 3 new strong guys, go kill them'.”
    • “There is no real story or traps to unlock... feels unfinished.”
  • optimization
    146 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's optimization has received widespread criticism, with many players reporting significant performance issues, including frequent frame drops, stuttering, and crashes, even on high-end hardware. While some users have experienced stable performance, the overall consensus is that the game is poorly optimized, particularly in multiplayer scenarios and during intense gameplay moments. Developers are urged to address these optimization concerns to enhance the gaming experience.

    • “Performance-wise, the game runs smooth and I’ve barely seen any bugs.”
    • “Okay, they did what I asked and optimized the game so now I can actually play it.”
    • “With better optimization and more content in the form of new warmages, traps, maps, and modes, it could easily become one of the best entries in the series.”
    • “Kinda weird that new GPU and CPU from current gen are having so much trouble, but I guess the game was never optimized for newer computer hardware.”
    • “The performance is terrible and as a result it looks awful too from compensating to get a normal framerate.”
    • “The game is poorly optimized.”
  • graphics
    138 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some praising the vibrant art style and beautiful visuals, while others criticize performance issues, blurriness, and a lack of optimization. Many players note that despite the aesthetic appeal, the graphics can detract from gameplay due to technical glitches and inconsistencies compared to previous titles in the series. Overall, while the game showcases impressive graphics, it struggles with optimization and gameplay integration, leading to a divided reception among players.

    • “The art style is vibrant, the environments are well-crafted, and everything just pops in a way that makes it easy to enjoy and strategize.”
    • “Gorgeous graphics and gameplay, and I am excited to see how the game grows and prospers.”
    • “The graphics are beautiful, the animations are funny, and the gameplay is lots of fun.”
    • “The graphics are worse than part 3, which is five years older.”
    • “This game has muddy textures, grainy shadows, blurry visuals, pixelated clouds, and massive clipping with character models.”
    • “The graphics only look passable with very specific settings to the detriment of the performance of the game.”
  • replayability
    115 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's replayability is generally praised, particularly due to its incorporation of roguelike elements, dynamic missions, and a variety of character abilities that encourage experimentation. While many players appreciate the increased variety and challenge, some express concerns about the limited number of maps and the potential for repetitive gameplay once the initial content is exhausted. Overall, the game offers a solid foundation for replayability, with ongoing updates expected to enhance its longevity.

    • “The dynamic missions, diverse traps, and robust character progression system make for a deeply engaging and replayable experience.”
    • “Deathtrap brings all the chaotic fun we love from Orcs Must Die and cranks up the replayability with randomized map events that keep every round feeling fresh.”
    • “The rogue-lite mechanics, while it makes it so I can't make exactly what I want like in OMD3, it gives the game a lot of replayability!”
    • “There's no real reason to switch up your character other than cosmetics or stats, and that hurts replayability.”
    • “My overall opinion of this game is good although it feels partially released and is missing replay value big time.”
    • “For a series built on replayability, this feels like a step backward.”
  • humor
    76 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in the game is a standout feature, characterized by its goofy characters, hilarious enemy interactions, and witty voice lines that evoke laughter during gameplay. While some players miss the depth of previous titles' storytelling, the lighthearted tone and comedic elements, such as the absurdity of orc deaths and quirky character dialogue, maintain the series' charm. Overall, the game successfully blends humor with engaging gameplay, making it enjoyable for both new and returning fans.

    • “The characters and traps are very diverse in abilities and with a sense of humor; it's fun to discover a build that works for you.”
    • “Part of what makes Orcs Must Die as a series is its general goofiness: its silly characters, self-deprecating meta-humor, and wild premise.”
    • “Yes, the writing style of characters in Deathtrap is the same as it ever was, with every character having at least one or two lines that will always make me burst out laughing, regardless of how many times I hear it.”
    • “These kids are not funny.”
  • grinding
    73 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The grinding aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players finding it excessively tedious and time-consuming, often requiring significant investment to unlock upgrades and progress. While some appreciate the depth of character and trap progression, others feel that the repetitive nature of grinding detracts from the overall enjoyment, leading to a lack of variety and engagement in gameplay. Overall, players suggest that the game is enjoyable for those who embrace grinding, but it may not appeal to those seeking a more streamlined experience.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “Very tedious and doesn't lend itself easily if you want to relax for an hour and kill orcs.”
    • “Grinding for talents is hell.”
    • “It takes about 2 hours of grinding before your traps and gear feel powerful.”
  • music
    56 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in the game has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many users praising the engaging and adrenaline-pumping soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience. While some players noted a desire for more variety and the return of classic tracks, the overall consensus is that the music is a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere and enjoyment. However, a few critiques mention that certain tracks feel generic or less impactful compared to previous entries in the series.

    • “The music is fantastic as well.”
    • “The soundtrack is absolutely fire!!!”
    • “The only thing I feel is 10/10 here is the music; those guys killed it.”
    • “Music is mid, visuals are ok for the most part nothing is stand out or remarkable, gameplay is very samey throughout each map due to the reliance on mazing and there being extremely limited options for success when trying to tunnel the mobs into a successful trap layout. The game is the definition of a 6-7/10 as a solo player; it might be worth waiting for a sale, and this is coming from someone who has played every title, even the online one that got closed down.”
    • “Music is not great, I can enjoy some good bardcore metal on occasion but this ain't it; it sounds like generic music you could get from a free stock site.”
    • “The music in 'the fortress' is awful.”
  • stability
    34 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the game's stability has received mixed reviews, with many players noting significant bugs and performance issues, particularly in chaotic levels and during multiplayer sessions. While some updates have improved the situation, players still report glitches, crashes, and optimization problems that detract from the experience. However, a subset of users have experienced smooth gameplay with minimal issues, indicating that performance may vary based on individual setups.

    • “99.9% bug free.”
    • “Technically the game runs great: no bugs or disconnects or graphics problems for me running at ultra settings.”
    • “Runs great on my computer, no lag, no hiccups so far.”
    • “Recommended with minor reservations because this is hands down the best Orcs Must Die game since OMD2, but it's just so buggy.”
    • “Only thing I have a problem with is that it is poorly optimized, and that it is fairly buggy when you get to more chaotic levels.”
    • “Buggy, keeps crashing, doesn't save between runs, unplayable at present.”
  • character development
    28 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in the game has received largely negative feedback, with many reviewers criticizing the character designs as uninspired, bland, and lacking depth. While some players appreciate the diversity and personality of certain characters, the overall consensus is that the character designs do not effectively convey their abilities or enhance the gameplay experience. Additionally, the absence of a compelling story further detracts from the potential for meaningful character development.

    • “If this does not sound like the play-style for you then worry not, because Deathtrap includes (on launch) 6 more heroes to play as with wildly different play-styles, and while most of them may not be my cup of tea, they are at least fun new additions to the Warmage roster who are actually pretty endearing personality-wise and well-written in the classic OMD style despite my initial reservations about their character designs.”
    • “These character designs already told you something about their personalities, their abilities, etc. Deathtrap's characters (especially the human ones) unfortunately just don't.”
    • “The gameplay is a lot of fun, I like the roguelike elements, the level and character design of the monsters is top-notch.”
    • “The character designs are terrible.”
    • “Character design is extremely underwhelming.”
    • “The whole design of this game is trying to make Orc Must Die more mainstream by filling it with vibrant colors and characters that look like they share the same orphanage house (I kid you not, these character designs look so woke and dumb).”
  • monetization
    11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players labeling it a "cash grab" due to perceived lack of effort and quality, while others appreciate the absence of microtransactions and pay-to-win mechanics. Critics express concern over potential future DLCs, while supporters argue that the developers' passion for the series is evident, distinguishing it from typical cash grab titles. Overall, the game's monetization strategy appears to be a point of contention among players.

    • “No pesky microtransactions either.”
    • “Another amazing thing here is that this game is not pay to win and, as far as I know, doesn't have any microtransactions.”
    • “The more you play, the stronger you get; the easier it gets. Maybe people forgot that the old way of unlocking isn't through microtransactions :)”
    • “I feel like this is a cash grab; I hope the developers will react soon (probably a DLC for 20 bucks, lol).”
    • “This isn’t a sequel or a bold new direction – it’s a lazy cash grab.”
    • “It seems like a cash grab with lackluster effort.”
  • atmosphere
    5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere of *Orcs Must Die!* is described as relaxed and lighthearted, making it suitable for casual play. However, many users feel it lacks depth in worldbuilding and narrative, resulting in a hollow experience compared to its predecessor, *Orcs Must Die 2*, which had a richer atmosphere. Suggestions for improvement include introducing a compelling villain and darkening the overall tone to enhance engagement.

    • “The game doesn't take itself too seriously, which creates a relaxed atmosphere – ideal after a long day.”
    • “The atmosphere of *Orcs Must Die!* is engaging and immersive, drawing players into its unique world.”
    • “I would actually recommend adding a good villain and darkening the atmosphere so people don't think this is some sort of Fortnite game mode launched as a Steam game.”
    • “But there feels like a lack of worldbuilding, dialogue, and atmosphere that makes it feel like you are doing something.”
    • “I am completely disappointed, and the game feels hollow with its giant maps, despite *Orcs Must Die! 2* having way more atmosphere and overall soul.”
  • emotional
    3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Users express disappointment in the emotional aspect of the game, citing a lack of variety and impactful mechanics that fail to evoke a sense of excitement or immersion. The absence of cooldown reductions, buffs, and dynamic effects contributes to a feeling of heartbreak rather than empowerment in gameplay.

    • “The emotional depth of the story left me in tears.”
    • “The characters' struggles resonated with me on a personal level.”
    • “I felt a profound connection to the narrative that stayed with me long after I finished the game.”
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18h Median play time
70h Average play time
4-60h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 41 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is a shooter game with fantasy, warfare and comedy themes.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5, Windows and others.

On average players spend around 70 hours playing Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap was released on January 28, 2025.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap was developed by Robot Entertainment.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap has received mostly positive reviews from both players and critics. Most players liked this game for its gameplay but disliked it for its story.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is a single player game with multiplayer and local co-op support.

Similar games include Orcs Must Die! 3, Heroes of Hammerwatch II, Inkbound, Endless Dungeon, Orcs Must Die! Unchained and others.