Have A Nice Death review (PS5)

Have a Nice Death, developed by Magic Design Studios and published by Gearbox Publishing, made its mark in the realm of roguelike action following its earlier release on PC, and has now launched on the PlayStation 5 . The game introduces players to a unique premise, portraying Death not as an intimidating figure but as a cartoon-like character stuck in a mundane job, dealing with the chaos caused by his rebellious employees.

The narrative unfolds with a delightful touch of dark humor, blending a cartoony aesthetic with a workplace setting gone awry. The opening cinematic sets the tone in this regard, providing a humorous insight into Death’s struggle with paperwork, corporate complications, and the consequences of outsourcing the busywork of soul collection. The comedic narrative remains a consistent highlight throughout the game, injecting personality into a genre that is usually high on gameplay and low on story.

Visually, Have a Nice Death engages with its crisp and animated cartoon style. The character designs and vibrant environments contribute to the game’s overall charm, providing a visually fun and engaging experience. However, the level designs, often with a mix of dark colors and weird substances, occasionally feel too similar to one another.

The gameplay mechanics feature a well-executed blend of fast-paced hack ‘n’ slash combat and roguelike elements. Players navigate procedurally-generated departments, facing various enemies and bosses in a quest to restore order to Death’s workplace. The combat system offers a variety of weapons and spells to help you with this, allowing players to experiment with different combinations and playstyles. This, together with a randomized nature of the challenges, adds depth, requiring players to adapt their strategies based on the challenges presented.

The controls feel responsive, and one standout feature is the game’s approach to progression and new abilities, offering players a clear sense of advancement. The unlockable system and the ability to try each ability in a designated area enhance the overall learning curve, making it accessible to newcomers as well as veterans of the genre. The humor, embedded in various encounters and boss battles, adds an extra layer of enjoyment, creating a cohesive and engaging experience.

In conclusion, Have a Nice Death successfully blends humor, accessible combat, and thoughtful progression in a roguelike setting. The game’s unique premise and art style contribute to its overall appeal. Although it may not reach the upper echelons of the crowded and competitive roguelike niche, it stands out as a competent and enjoyable addition, especially for players seeking a visually charming experience with engaging combat and progression systems on the PlayStation 5.

Score: 8.0/10