Rounds for Windows

Intense 1v1 roguelite shooter

Rounds is a challenging and paid roguelite shooter developed by Landfall. What makes this action game challenging is that the losing player gets to unlock upgrades, stacking the odds against the winner and giving the loser an added chance to win the next round.

With its 2D shooting concept, Rounds feels a bit similar to Guns, Gore and Cannoli 2 or Holodrive. However, don’t let the simple character design fool you as it requires some fast reflexes and a bit of strategy to use the best upgrades available. Get ready to shoot, run, jump, and block your way toward two-dimensional supremacy.

Use your surroundings and more

One aspect that makes Rounds crazily addictive is that it has interactive environment elements. There are dangling blocks that are notoriously hard to stand on, and there are towers of destructible terrain that you can use for protection or to obstruct your enemies. You can shoot or kick certain structures to make them swing or to make them fall down. This adds a strategic element to your 1v1 battle.

It also supports local or online multiplayer with Twitch-based matchmaking. Whether you’re with friends or you’re ready to fight against anyone, you have the freedom to do so. Also, whether you want to be unique or as a part of your psychological warfare strategies, you can use the game’s AAA Face Customizer, from simple emoji-looking faces to more complex, animated ones.

Lastly, the weapons in this game are outrageous. You start with basic bullet-like projectiles, which, depending on how the fight goes, can be upgraded. By the late game, you’re shooting multiple lasers or even homing missiles. While players complain about the lack of crosshair in this game, who needs it when you have tracer rounds and homing rockets at your disposal.

Simple, yet addictive

Using simple design choices, a straightforward gameplay premise, and a twist by giving the loser an upgrade, Rounds is an easily addictive player vs player (PVP) experience. You can play with friends or with random people on the internet to hone both your shooting and your deck-building abilities. Despite its seemingly plain character designs, its customization options still allow you to stand out. Definitely recommended.