The Chaotic Delight of "Berserk or Die": A Hands-On Indie Game Experience
"Berserk Key-Tapping" caters to fans who prefer a frenzied typing spree
By Tobias Hauser
When indie game titans like "Poncle", the creators of "Vampire Survivors", step into the ring as publishers, expect a shake-up in the gaming world. "Vampire Survivors" is the epitome of small indie success, boasting simple mechanics yet packing an addictive punch. "Berserk or Die", though developed by a different team, demonstrates striking similarities with its straightforward gameplay and outrageous fun.
The core concept of "Berserk or Die" is outrageously simple: A warrior, pixelated and 2D, flings themselves left and right across a map, taking on incoming enemies. The secret ingredient? The more keys you mashed on your keyboard, the more powerful the warrior's attack. Executing a furious barrage on the keyboard transforms your character into a charging bulldozer, obliterating enemies in one fierce blow. But beware—each attack depletes your energy, leaving you vulnerable.
Light and Shadow Control
The base control scheme is a riot, but it might take some patience to get the hang of it. If keyboard mayhem isn't quite your style, "Berserk or Die" performs admirably with a controller as well, delivering a more precise gaming experience overall.
As the enemies attack in waves, the gameplay loop becomes addictive. The simplicity of the mechanics and the variety of enemy types keep things stimulating, preventing staleness. Each day's challenge concludes with a well-earned break, allowing you to spend your hard-earned gold on upgrades at the merchant and top off your health. The following day begins anew, with enemies evolving their strategies and becoming increasingly dangerous. If you succumb to their onslaught, you'll have to start over. Conquer the level's boss, however, and you unlock a new stage.
Upgrades Need a Boost
Upgrades in "Berserk or Die" aren't as impactful as in "Vampire Survivors", where each run feels dynamically unique due to the combinations of upgrades that drastically alter the gameplay experience. In "Berserk or Die", improvements tend to be more subtle, causing an eventual sense of repetitiveness over time. More diverse upgrades would enrich the gameplay experience.
While it doesn't reach the depth or long-term motivation of a "Hades", "Berserk or Die" serves as a worthwhile diversional pastime. Despite longevity limitations, the combat remains well-designed and delights in its ridiculous charm. After several enjoyable hours, you won't regret one minute of gaming joy. Once you've conquered hard mode and unlocked new characters, it's time to give the game another whirl.
Tags:
- Video Games
- Indie Games
- Action Games
Other gadgets, such as smartphones and controllers, can be used to play "Berserk or Die", a technology-driven action indie game. The entertainment value of the game lies in its simple mechanics, outrageous fun, and the added challenge of upgrading characters to conquer harder levels.
