Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel stands out as a roguelike horde-survival action RPG that draws heavily from Norse mythology, challenging players to battle relentless waves of mythical foes in a top-down format.
Gameplay
In Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel, the core loop revolves around selecting a damned hero and diving into intense runs where you fend off endless enemy hordes. Combat feels fast-paced and demanding, with a focus on dodging attacks, using environmental elements, and deploying unique character abilities to survive escalating waves. Progression hinges on meta-systems that let you unlock perks, skills, and upgrades over multiple attempts, allowing for build experimentation with weapons and bonuses tailored to different playstyles.
Each session includes objectives like defeating specific enemies or overcoming obstacles, building toward a climactic boss fight. The roguelike elements ensure variety, as failed runs contribute to overall advancement, encouraging repeated plays to refine strategies against increasingly tough mythical adversaries from Hel's realms.
Game Modes
The game centers on survival-based runs where you navigate through mythic realms, completing trials set by the gods. These runs incorporate missions that add layers to the horde-survival formula, such as achieving targeted goals amid constant enemy onslaughts, leading to a final boss encounter.
Without distinct multiplayer options, it emphasizes solo play, blending roguelike replayability with action RPG depth for sessions that test endurance and tactical choices.
Progression and Customization
Meta-progression forms a key pillar, granting access to new abilities and character options as you accumulate successes across runs. Choose from a lineup of heroes, each with specialized skills and starting weapons, enabling diverse builds that mix offensive and defensive traits to counter the hordes.
Boss fights demand adaptation, using the environment and unlocked upgrades to turn the tide against formidable Norse-inspired enemies.
Is It Worth Playing?
For fans of horde-survival games with roguelike twists, Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel delivers a solid experience, especially if you enjoy mythological themes and build-crafting. Player reception on PC shows an 84% positive rating from 2,745 reviews, highlighting its gripping combat and visuals, though some note pacing issues on consoles like PS5.
Released in September 2025 and available on PC and PS5, it suits those seeking challenging single-player action without ongoing seasons or major updates confirmed beyond initial launch support. If top-down survival with progression appeals, it holds value for repeated plays.
