* Rogue-Likes *

Though these games were more popular early in the history of video games they have a dedicated core of players even today, and occasional new titles with more than a passing resemblance to the original title occasionally appear. Though the entire genre is named for the groundbreaking title "Rogue" its greatest flower was quite possibly "Nethack", which was one of the most advanced "Rogue-like" games ever made. With over a hundred different monsters and features such as booby-traps and shops this game set a standard by which other Rogue-likes were measured for close to a decade.

However, what no one saw comming was the legendary
"Dwarf Fortress II:
Slaves to Armok; God of Blood".
This game, (which has two modes, an RPG version and a "domain-management" Simulation version,) dethroned all other Rogue-likes and set itself as a benchmark for Rogue-like gaming which has yet to be equaled, let alone surpassed. Still being updated and improved on by its creators most of a decade later Dwarf Fortress boasts a level of interaction and sophisticated designs that makes all other Rogue-likes cry bitter tears at their own inadequacy. In simulation mode the level of sophistication in the game has even made possible what is known as "Dwarf-ception": the creation of a "fortress" that is a simulated computer PLAYING RPG mode!

Yet for all that Dwarf Fortress is the reigning lord of the Rogue-likes, many other worthy titles exist, even some created in the modern era.

One such is the Rogue-like/platform side-scroller cross "Rogue Legacy". In this game you play a not one hero, but a whole dynasty which slowly grows in power and accomplishments as the game progresses. However, because of its platform elements and sheer difficulty, most do not consider it a true Rogue-like. (This author obviously begs to differ...)