Blockader takes players to a small arena on the moon, where space mice must confront constantly appearing groups of enemies. The game combines arena shooter gameplay with roguelite mechanics, where the character automatically attacks while the player is responsible for movement and upgrade choices. As a result, the screen is always full of action, yet the controls remain relatively simple.
Blockader: A Changing Battlefield
The first waves are for players to get used to the speed and movement. The more adversaries there are, the more perilous it is to stand motionless. Enemies can come at you from all angles, and snipers add pressure from a distance.
Instead than rushing around the arena randomly, players should look for remaining space. Safe areas can fill up rapidly therefore changing positions at the right time is a key feature of any combat.
Automatic Weapons Simplify Movement Targeting
Blockader don't need to assault all the time. The character will automatically employ weapons, allowing the user to focus more on their position and surroundings.
This also results in a gameplay style that is significantly distinct from the traditional shooter. You don't have to be continuously looking for things to shoot, but you do have to decide where to go and when to turn.
Upgrade System Makes A Difference
The game has upgrade cards to choose after every wave. Blockader has a total of 100+ upgrade cards with 4 different rarity levels and different effects.
Some possible choices would be:
- Increasing amount of ammo.
- Making lightning chains.
- Inflicting poison to adversaries.
- Adding arrows.
- Summoning dragon allies for combat support.
Cards can be combined, so a run doesn't necessarily have to go in the same direction. Space is also used to reroll the current pick when needing to find another option.
Power Retained After Each Play
Blockader doesn't end progress when a character fails. Stars earned during plays can be used for the Gear system including Offense, Defense, and Utility.
Additionally, the game has 6 characters, each with their own Skill Tree. Players can try different characters, upgrade each development path, and return to the arena with a better foundation.
Controls
- WASD: Move.
- 1–4: Select upgrade card.
- Space: Reroll.
- Tab: View stats.
- Esc: Pause.
Besides surviving the waves, Blockader has a Wave Leaderboard, an upgrade gathering system and mysteries to uncover. These variables bring extra goals to the next plays.
Blockader retains its gameplay accessibility with its compact venues and ever-present enemies, as well as a system of upgrades that varies with each run, but yet gives enough variables so that no two matches are the exact same.
