Dungeon crawler games have captivated gamers for decades with their immersive gameplay and thrilling adventures. Whether you enjoy exploring dark and treacherous dungeons or battling fierce monsters, these games offer hours of entertainment.
In this article, we will take a close look at some of the best dungeon crawler games that have captured the hearts of players around the world.
Diablo Series
When it comes to dungeon crawler games, the Diablo series is undoubtedly a legendary franchise. With its dark and atmospheric setting, intense combat, and addictive loot system, Diablo has set the bar high for the genre. The game allows players to venture into the depths of hell itself, battling hordes of demons and monsters to save the world.
The Diablo series offers a rich storyline, engaging quests, and a deep character progression system. Whether playing solo or with friends, the game delivers a satisfying experience that keeps players coming back for more.
The game is a treasure trove of rare and powerful items, and players are constantly on the hunt for the next upgrade. Whether it’s a legendary weapon, a piece of armor with incredible stats, or a valuable gem, the thrill of finding that perfect piece of loot is a major driving force behind the game’s longevity.
Each game in the series weaves a tale of epic proportions, with twists and turns that keep players guessing. From the origins of the demonic invasion to the fate of the world, the story of Diablo is one that captivates players and leaves them hungry for more.
The Diablo series is filled with a wide variety of quests, ranging from simple fetch quests to epic boss battles. Each quest offers its own unique challenges and rewards, ensuring that players always have something to strive for.
Whether you’re a seasoned Diablo veteran or new to the series, there’s no denying the impact that Diablo has had on the dungeon crawler genre.
- Release Date: December 31, 1996
- Platforms: PC, later on PlayStation
- Developer: Blizzard North
- Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
- Genre: Action RPG, Hack and Slash
Path of Exile
Path of Exile is a free-to-play dungeon crawler game that has garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years. With its gritty and dark fantasy world, the game offers a unique gameplay experience. Players can choose from a vast array of character classes, each with its own distinct playstyle and abilities.
Instead of a traditional leveling system, players acquire skill gems that can be socketed into gear, allowing for endless customization and experimentation. The game also features a robust online trading system, giving players the opportunity to connect and trade items with others.
The game’s dark fantasy setting is filled with intriguing characters, ancient civilizations, and mysterious artifacts. As players progress through the game, they will uncover hidden secrets and unravel the mysteries of the world.
The game offers a wide variety of quests, dungeons, and boss battles that will test the skills and strategies of even the most seasoned players. With each new challenge conquered, players will earn valuable loot and experience points, allowing them to further enhance their characters and delve deeper into the treacherous depths of the game’s world.
Path of Exile regularly receives updates and expansions, introducing new content, features, and challenges to keep players engaged and entertained.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of dungeon crawlers, Path of Exile offers an immersive and captivating experience.
- Release Date: October 23, 2013
- Platforms: PC, later on Xbox One and PS4
- Developer: Grinding Gear Games
- Publisher: Grinding Gear Games
- Genre: Action RPG
Torchlight Series
The Torchlight series is another highly acclaimed dungeon crawler that has captured the hearts of gamers. Developed by former members of the Diablo team, Torchlight offers a similar experience with its fast-paced combat, loot-driven gameplay, and engrossing storyline.
Set in the fictional town of Torchlight, players embark on a thrilling adventure filled with dangerous dungeons, treacherous monsters, and valuable treasures. The game’s immersive world is brought to life with stunning graphics and atmospheric sound design, creating a truly captivating experience.
Players are accompanied by a loyal pet who can fight by their side, carry loot, and even transform into powerful creatures. This unique mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay and enhances the overall experience.
Torchlight also features a deep and intricate storyline. Players will uncover the secrets of Torchlight and its surrounding areas as they delve deeper into the game’s quests and missions.
The Torchlight series is a must-play for fans of dungeon crawler games. With its fast-paced combat, loot-driven gameplay, engrossing storyline, and unique pet system.
- Release Date: October 27, 2009
- Platforms: PC, later on Xbox 360, Linux, macOS
- Developer: Runic Games
- Publisher: Runic Games, Perfect World
- Genre: Action RPG
Darkest Dungeon
In the realm of dungeon crawler games, Darkest Dungeon stands out for its gritty and unforgiving nature. Set in a grim and gothic world, the game challenges players to manage a team of flawed heroes as they delve into dark and dangerous dungeons.
Unlike many other dungeon crawlers, Darkest Dungeon puts a significant emphasis on the psychological well-being of its characters. Heroes can suffer from stress and develop various afflictions, which can significantly impact their performance in battle. This adds a unique layer of strategy and tension, making every decision critical for survival.
- Release Date: January 19, 2016
- Platforms: PC, PS4, PS Vita, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One
- Developer: Red Hook Studios
- Publisher: Red Hook Studios
- Genre: Roguelike, Strategy RPG
Grim Dawn
Grim Dawn is a dark and atmospheric dungeon crawler game that offers a compelling mix of action and role-playing elements. Set in a war-torn world ravaged by a supernatural apocalypse, players must navigate treacherous environments and battle hordes of menacing creatures.
What sets Grim Dawn apart is its dual-class system, which allows players to combine any two of the game’s character classes. This opens up a vast array of playstyles and customization options, ensuring that no two characters are alike. With its immersive world and challenging gameplay, Grim Dawn is a must-play for fans of the genre.
- Release Date: February 25, 2016
- Platforms: PC
- Developer: Crate Entertainment
- Publisher: Crate Entertainment
- Genre: Action RPG
Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance Series
The Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance series takes dungeon crawler games to a whole new level. Set in the iconic Forgotten Realms universe, these games offer an incredible co-op experience that allows players to team up with friends and tackle challenging dungeons together.
With its engaging storyline and memorable characters, Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance delivers a gripping narrative that keeps players engaged from start to finish. The games also feature a robust loot system, rewarding players with powerful gear as they progress through the adventure.
- Release Date: December 2, 2001
- Platforms: PlayStation 2, later on Xbox, GameCube
- Developer: Snowblind Studios
- Publisher: Black Isle Studios, Interplay Entertainment
- Genre: Action RPG
Gauntlet Series
The Gauntlet series is a classic dungeon crawler franchise that has stood the test of time. Known for its fast-paced gameplay and cooperative multiplayer, Gauntlet offers an exciting and challenging experience for players.
With its simple yet addictive gameplay mechanics, Gauntlet provides endless hours of fun, whether playing alone or with friends. The games feature a variety of character classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyles, allowing players to find their perfect fit.
- Release Date: 1985 (Arcade)
- Platforms: Arcade, various home platforms later
- Developer: Atari Games
- Publisher: Atari Games
- Genre: Action, Hack and Slash
Titan Quest
Titan Quest is an epic dungeon crawler game that takes players on a journey through ancient mythologies. With its stunning visuals, immersive world, and engaging gameplay, Titan Quest has become a fan-favorite in the genre.
Players can explore ancient civilizations, battle legendary creatures, and unravel the mysteries of the gods. The game offers a vast array of character customization options, allowing players to create a hero that suits their preferred playstyle. With its compelling storyline and challenging quests, Titan Quest is a must-play for any fan of the genre.
- Release Date: June 26, 2006
- Platforms: PC, later on other platforms including PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Iron Lore Entertainment
- Publisher: THQ, later by THQ Nordic
- Genre: Action RPG
The Binding of Isaac
The Binding of Isaac is a unique dungeon crawler game that combines elements of roguelike and twin-stick shooters. Set in a disturbing and twisted world, players control Isaac as he battles grotesque monsters and uncovers the dark secrets of his own past.
What sets The Binding of Isaac apart is its procedurally generated levels, ensuring that each playthrough is different from the last. With its challenging gameplay and endless replayability, the game has garnered a dedicated following and is considered a modern classic in the genre.
- Release Date: September 28, 2011
- Platforms: PC, later on various other platforms
- Developer: Edmund McMillen and Florian Himsl
- Publisher: Edmund McMillen
- Genre: Roguelike, Action
Enter the Gungeon
Enter the Gungeon is a bullet-hell dungeon crawler game that offers a unique and challenging experience. Players embark on a quest to find a legendary gun that can kill the past, battling through a series of procedurally generated dungeons filled with dangerous enemies and traps.
The game features a vast arsenal of over 400 unique weapons, each with its own distinct playstyle and abilities. Enter the Gungeon’s fast-paced gameplay and challenging boss fights make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
- Release Date: April 5, 2016
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Dodge Roll
- Publisher: Devolver Digital
- Genre: Bullet hell, Roguelike
Legend of Grimrock Series
The Legend of Grimrock series stands as a testament to the dungeon crawler genre. With its grid-based movement and old-school design, it harkens back to the golden age of dungeon crawling.
The game challenges players to navigate through perilous mazes filled with deadly traps and monstrous creatures. The puzzles are cleverly crafted, never failing to surprise and engage the player.
The Legend of Grimrock series offers a captivating blend of nostalgia and innovation, making it a must-play for any dungeon crawler enthusiast.
The Legend of Grimrock series is a true gem in the dungeon crawler genre. Its attention to detail, challenging gameplay, engaging narrative, and vibrant modding community make it a standout title that is sure to captivate players for hours on end.
- Release Date: April 11, 2012
- Platforms: PC, later on iOS and macOS
- Developer: Almost Human
- Publisher: Almost Human
- Genre: Dungeon crawl, RPG
Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl
Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl is a free and open-source roguelike game that has gained a cult following among dungeon crawler fans. Its deep tactical gameplay and complex character customization options make it a true gem in the genre.
The game’s procedural generation ensures that each playthrough is unique, offering endless replayability. With its challenging difficulty and intricate mechanics, Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl provides a truly satisfying dungeon crawling experience.
Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl also offers a wide array of skills and spells for players to master. From powerful offensive spells like Fireball and Lightning Bolt to defensive abilities like Shield and Blink, there are countless ways to approach each encounter.
Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl’s procedural generation ensures that no two playthroughs are ever the same. Each time you descend into the depths, the layout of the dungeon, the placement of enemies, and the location of valuable loot are all randomized.
As you explore the dungeon, you’ll gather resources and materials that can be used to create powerful weapons, armor, and potions. Crafting allows you to tailor your equipment to your playstyle, giving you an edge in battle. Experimenting with different combinations of materials can lead to the discovery of rare and powerful items.
Stone Soup: Dungeon Crawl offers a rich and immersive experience that is sure to captivate and entertain.
- Release Date: 2006 (Dungeon Crawl Stone Soup is a continuation of Linley’s Dungeon Crawl, which began in 1995)
- Platforms: PC
- Developer: The DCSS Devteam
- Publisher: Open-source
- Genre: Roguelike
Etrian Odyssey Series
The Etrian Odyssey series has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative blend of dungeon crawling and cartography. In these games, players are tasked with exploring intricate labyrinths while simultaneously mapping out their discoveries on the bottom screen of their Nintendo DS.
This gameplay mechanic adds a layer of immersion and strategy, as carefully charted maps become invaluable tools in navigating treacherous dungeons. The Etrian Odyssey series is a prime example of how dungeon crawler games can push boundaries and offer unique gameplay experiences.
One of the standout features of the Etrian Odyssey series is its attention to detail when it comes to dungeon design. Each labyrinth is meticulously crafted, with hidden passages, secret treasures, and challenging puzzles waiting to be discovered. As players venture deeper into the dungeons, they will encounter increasingly complex layouts that require careful navigation and strategic decision-making.
Players are not simply exploring the dungeons aimlessly; they are actively mapping out their progress, marking important landmarks, and noting potential dangers. This level of engagement with the environment creates a sense of ownership and investment in the world of Etrian Odyssey.
These games are not for the faint of heart, as they require careful planning, resource management, and strategic thinking. Players must carefully consider their party composition, equipment choices, and skill allocation to overcome the formidable foes that await them in the depths of the dungeons.
The Etrian Odyssey series is a standout in the dungeon crawler genre, thanks to its innovative blend of dungeon crawling and cartography, attention to detail in dungeon design, challenging difficulty level, and rich lore and world-building.
- Release Date: January 18, 2007
- Platforms: Nintendo DS
- Developer: Atlus
- Publisher: Atlus
- Genre: Dungeon crawl, RPG
Heroes of the Monkey Tavern
Heroes of the Monkey Tavern is a modern take on the classic dungeon crawler formula. With its simple yet effective gameplay mechanics and captivating atmosphere, the game successfully captures the essence of old-school dungeon crawling.
The eerie dungeons and challenging encounters provide a sense of constant tension and reward players who exercise caution and strategy. Heroes of the Monkey Tavern is a delightful homage to the genre, delivering a nostalgic experience while also introducing fresh elements.
- Release Date: November 22, 2016
- Platforms: PC, later on Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Monkey Stories Games
- Publisher: Monkey Stories Games
- Genre: Dungeon crawl, RPG
The Bard’s Tale Series
The Bard’s Tale series is renowned for its clever humor and memorable characters, setting it apart from other dungeon crawler games. In this series, players assume the role of a witty bard who embarks on a quest filled with humor, danger, and epic battles.
The combination of engaging storytelling, challenging combat, and musical interludes creates a delightful and unforgettable experience. The Bard’s Tale series proves that dungeon crawler games can be more than just a journey through dark dungeons; they can also be a whimsical adventure.
- Release Date: 1985
- Platforms: Apple II, Commodore 64, later other platforms
- Developer: Interplay Productions
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Genre: RPG
Victor Vran
Victor Vran is a stylish action RPG that seamlessly blends elements of dungeon crawling with fast-paced combat. Players take on the role of the eponymous demon hunter, battling hordes of demonic creatures in a gothic-inspired world.
The game’s dynamic combat system encourages experimentation and rewards players for their strategic choices. With its immersive atmosphere and satisfying gameplay, Victor Vran is a must-play for those seeking a fresh take on the dungeon crawler genre.
- Release Date: July 24, 2015
- Platforms: PC, later on PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Haemimont Games
- Publisher: EuroVideo Medien
- Genre: Action RPG
Moonlighter
Moonlighter combines the thrill of dungeon crawling with the management elements of running a shop. As the protagonist, players explore mysterious dungeons during the night and then sell their loot during the day, striving to grow their business.
The game’s unique blend of action-packed combat and economic strategy adds a refreshing twist to the dungeon crawler genre. Moonlighter offers an addictive gameplay loop that keeps players engaged for hours on end.
- Release Date: May 29, 2018
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Digital Sun
- Publisher: 11 bit studios
- Genre: Action RPG, Roguelike
Nethack
Nethack, an ASCII-based roguelike game, is a true classic in the dungeon crawler genre. It is known for its incredibly deep gameplay mechanics, punishing difficulty, and countless hidden secrets.
The game’s procedural generation ensures that each playthrough is a unique and challenging experience. Nethack is a game that rewards perseverance and cunning, making it a staple for hardcore dungeon crawling enthusiasts.
- Release Date: 1987
- Platforms: PC, UNIX, later other platforms
- Developer: Mike Stephenson, and later by the NetHack DevTeam
- Publisher: Open-source
- Genre: Roguelike
UnderRail
UnderRail is a post-apocalyptic isometric RPG that boasts an intricate world, captivating quests, and challenging combat. The game’s underground setting provides a unique backdrop for exploration and discovery.
With its open-ended gameplay and complex character progression system, UnderRail offers a deep and immersive dungeon crawling experience. Fans of the genre will find themselves enthralled by the game’s rich lore and engaging gameplay.
- Release Date: December 18, 2015
- Platforms: PC
- Developer: Stygian Software
- Publisher: Stygian Software
- Genre: RPG
Dungeon Siege Series
The Dungeon Siege series revolutionized the dungeon crawler genre with its seamless party-based gameplay and breathtaking visuals. Players embark on an epic journey through a fantasy world plagued by evil forces, encountering a wide array of creatures and engaging in intense battles.
The series’ ability to seamlessly switch between real-time combat and tactical pauses adds depth to the gameplay and keeps players on their toes. The Dungeon Siege series is a masterclass in immersive dungeon crawling and storytelling.
- Release Date: April 5, 2002
- Platforms: PC, later on macOS
- Developer: Gas Powered Games
- Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
- Genre: Action RPG
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the classic dungeon crawler experience or crave a fresh take on the genre, these 20 best dungeon crawler games offer something for every player. From the captivating atmospheres to the challenging encounters, each game brings its own unique flair to the table.
