VR fans can have their pick of excellent roguelike games at the moment. It’s a genre that has truly found a foothold, offering a lot of replayability. The latest to make its mark is HexWind from Charm Games. And as the folks over at 131XR found in their latest review, HexWind can hold its own.
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What is HexWind?
Described as a mashup between Hellsplit Arena and Superhot, HexWind is an arena roguelike with time-manipulating gameplay. Originally released as an Early Access title for Meta Quest in 2024, HexWind has now officially launched, refining its magical action.
There’s no particular narrative to be concerned with here, as the focus is on kicking ass as you fight through endless waves of enemies. Like most roguelikes, you go on ‘runs’ trying to get as far as possible, utilising temporary buffs and permanent upgrades along the way.
However, the real draw to HexWind is its combination of non-stop, physical gameplay and darkly vibrant aesthetic.
HexWind Review
Utilising what the team likes to call its ‘HexTime’ system, time only flows when you move. Stay still, and the assortment of enemies from skeletons to flying skulls effectively pauses. Thus giving you a brief window to plan your next attack, or see where the next attack is coming from. Sounds simple enough, but when you’re being attacked (from all directions in some cases), the idea of stopping to slow time doesn’t always register.
Additionally, due to the aesthetic design of HexWind, enemies start as shadows that come to life. But not all shadows are necessarily enemies. So, as 131XR notes in its HexWind review, this creates an energising gameplay dynamic that constantly keeps you on your toes throughout.
All these kills earn you orbs, which can then be spent in the shop at the end of the level. Here, you’re given an assortment of choices as to how you’d like to upgrade your character. From new spells and weapons to abilities, there’s plenty of variety here to keep you coming back to refine your loadout.
All of which means HexWind gets a rare recommendation from 131XR.
Who are Charm Games?
It’s been a while since XRSource last heard from Charm Games. The team were early pioneers in the VR space, having released puzzle titles FORM (2017) and Twilight Path (2018). Both were puzzle adventures; FORM was very surreal in its delivery, whilst Twilight Path offered a quirkier, character-led experience.
Both are very different from HexWind, with Charm Game’s latest endeavour showcasing how far the studio has come.
Are you a VR roguelike fan? Think you’ll give HexWind a whirl after seeing this review? Let us know in the comments!
