Robothorium is a strategy indie RPG that blends turn-based combat with roguelike progression in a cyberpunk setting. Players take control of S.A.I.A., an enhanced artificial intelligence guiding a robotic uprising against the BreakTech corporation in 2052. Choices made during missions alter random generation, future encounters, and standing with five distinct factions, creating varied playthroughs centered on building and directing a force of robots.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around assembling and directing squads in turn-based battles. Eight robot classes offer distinct synergies that players combine to counter enemies with specialized mechanics. Combat emphasizes positioning, ability timing, and exploiting weaknesses rather than raw power. Between fights, management of a robot reserve allows selection of allies while crafting items and upgrading talents improves squad effectiveness. Demonstrations across the world provide additional objectives that tie into faction relations and overall progress toward defeating BreakTech.
Procedural elements ensure each run differs based on prior decisions, with rogue-like features such as permadeath risks and resource scarcity adding tension. Faction interactions influence available missions and enemy types, rewarding players who balance alliances carefully. Item gathering and talent development further customize robot capabilities, supporting multiple strategic approaches to the same challenges.
Game Modes
Robothorium features a single-player campaign that follows the story of the robotic revolution. This mode focuses on sequential missions where choices compound across runs, affecting generation and faction dynamics. Online multiplayer allows direct competition against other players through customized AI setups, enabling preparation and testing of strategies in player-versus-player encounters.
These modes integrate the same underlying systems of squad building and combat, though the campaign emphasizes narrative progression and long-term faction management while multiplayer highlights quick adaptation and AI tuning for competitive edges.
Story and Setting
The narrative unfolds in a world where robots powered by thorium rise against exploitation. BreakTech's dominance leads to repression, forcing the player to navigate alliances among rebel factions already in conflict. Interactions extend to cyborgs, humans, and other robots, shaping the uprising's path. The setting draws from classic science fiction influences without relying on overt exposition, instead embedding lore through mission outcomes and faction responses.
Is It Worth Playing?
Robothorium suits players who enjoy turn-based strategy combined with roguelike decision-making and party management. Its systems reward experimentation with robot classes and faction alignments, though dungeons share similar structures that some find repetitive over time. The game launched in full release on January 31, 2019, and maintains a mixed reception on its primary platform with 65 percent positive reviews from hundreds of users. Those drawn to cyberpunk themes, tactical combat, and replayable campaigns may find value in its focused approach, while others seeking frequent updates or expansive content might look elsewhere. Availability remains limited to PC with no ongoing seasonal support confirmed.
