10 Best Roguelike Dungeon Crawlers To Play On Android (2023)

Roguelike games are quite demanding, where players explore caves and dungeons to seek out excitement and treasure. But in my version of roguelikes, the dungeons are created randomly and once a player dies, it's permanent, adding a touch of nervousness that makes the game more challenging compared to other role-playing games. Although it's a specialized category, the followers are devoted. Roguelikes are distinctive from other games, and here are the finest rogue-like dungeon crawlers for Android.

1. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a modern game in the roguevania genre and it's very impressive. It boasts a vast interconnected world (the 'vania' part), 2D platformer and action elements, non-linear progression, and more. The game comes with hardware controller support, multiple software controller options, and an auto-hit mode, which is ideal for those who prefer to focus on exploration. The playable character is quite remarkable and the game is quite expansive.

However, this mobile version is a bit outdated compared to its PC counterpart, so some necessary adjustments have not been implemented. Players should expect challenging gameplay since it's a tough game. Dead Cells can be purchased for $8.99, without any in-app purchases or ads. It's also available for free on Google Play Pass, if you're subscribed to it.

2. OneBit Adventure

OneBit Adventure is a less intense roguelike game, which may not attract the hardcore players. The game provides a range of character classes to choose from, such as warrior, wizard, necromancer, archer, thief, and others. It utilizes turn-based combat with user-friendly controls that allow for single-handed gameplay.

As players progress, they can find gear to enhance their chances of winning, as well as unlock active and passive skills. The game features infinite level creation, leaderboards, boss battles, and other exciting elements. Although the game has some drawbacks, overall, it has more advantages than disadvantages.

3. Pathos

Pathos is an older game in the roguelike genre with graphics that are below average, even compared to other games of its kind. The controls are a bit more complicated than usual as well. However, the game excels in other areas. It employs a similar gameplay mechanism to Nethack, a classic ASCII roguelike game from the early 1980s. In the game, players descend into the dungeons, defeat the final boss, and escape before dying. The game is completely free and without any advertisements, which is why we appreciate it. Since it's a free game, it's difficult to complain too much about its flaws.

4. Hoplite

Hoplite is an older and widely known dungeon crawler that provides a somewhat more strategic gaming experience by employing turn-based movement and attacking. Apart from this, it follows the classic roguelike game style with randomly created dungeons, leaderboards, Google Play Games achievements, user-friendly controls, and a considerable level of difficulty. Although the basic game has just over twenty-five levels, there are many unique missions and other content to keep players occupied. If players opt for the premium version, it is relatively low-priced. Google Play Pass subscribers can also access this game for free.

5. Caves

Caves is a highly sought-after mobile game in the roguelike dungeon crawler category. It closely follows the standard criteria, where players navigate through randomly produced dungeons, gather diverse treasures and equipment, overcome numerous foes, and more. The game has a classic, old-fashioned appearance, but the controls are satisfactory and the gameplay is pretty engaging and challenging. Players are also given a primary base that includes a cloning station. This game is not simple and is available at a relatively low cost.

6. Endurance (and Ailment)

Endurance is a dungeon crawler in the rogue-like genre that features a top-down shooter style of gameplay. The game is packed with numerous enemies to defeat, various items to gather, and a compelling story to follow. As a player, you explore the Endurance to uncover the reason behind people's madness. Ailment, another game in this category, is a sequel to Endurance and is also worth trying. For the optimum storyline effect, it is recommended to try Ailment first. Both games offer a free-to-play option, with an opportunity to upgrade to a permanent premium version via in-app purchases.

7. ReversEstory

ReversEstory is a game that combines rogue-like shooting with elements of action and bullet hell. The 2D platformer mechanics are a surprisingly enjoyable addition as you navigate through the different sections of the game while shooting your way through enemies. The boss battles are challenging but entertaining, and the game's graphics and overall style are charming. Additionally, players can obtain various equipment, and the game allows you to fly around freely, adding to the fun. The bullet-hell aspect of the game increases the level of intensity, making it more challenging than typical rogue-like games. Overall, ReversEstory is an enjoyable game. It is available for free with Google Play Pass, but in-app purchases are still available.

8. Soda Dungeon 2

Soda Dungeon 2 leans more towards being a dungeon crawler rather than a roguelike. The objective is to get to the end of Soda Dungeon by using turn-based combat mechanics, collecting loot, fighting bosses, and other standard RPG dungeon-crawling elements. However, it also includes some unique features that enhance the gameplay. For instance, players can earn rewards in the background like in an idle game, and they can use the Soda Script function to control their AI teammates more precisely. Although it is not a typical roguelike, it's a solid dungeon crawler with enjoyable gameplay.

9. Yet Another Pixel Dungeon

Yet Another Pixel Dungeon is a highly traditional roguelike game available on mobile devices. It is a derivative of the original Pixel Dungeon game and is one of several similar games available in the app store. The game is favored for its active development, multiple features, and options for players. It includes four character classes, four levels of difficulty, an assortment of loot and equipment to acquire, and a dynamic environment that can affect gameplay. It is considered the best version of all the Pixel Dungeon games and is highly recommended. However, if you search for Pixel Dungeon in the app store, you can find several other versions to try as well.

10. Space Grunts 2

Space Grunts 2 is a roguelike game with a twist - it includes card collection mechanics that replace your traditional tools and loot. As you progress through the game, you can collect various cards to play during strategic moments to overcome obstacles. While the gameplay mechanics are similar to other roguelikes, the inclusion of the card collection adds a unique element to the game. Despite not being very popular, the game was enjoyable to play. Unlike many mobile games, there are no in-app purchases or ads, but it does cost $3.99 to download.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Best PC Games Ported To Android (2023)