I’ll admit that I’m not particularly fond of roguelike arcade shooters, but that doesn’t mean I won’t play them. If they have an interesting hook, I’ll definitely check them out at least. BeardedBear is certainly one that I love the idea behind. The style of play isn’t necessarily my thing, but the premise is one I can’t stop thinking about.
The basic “story” behind BeardedBear is you play as a bear. With a beard. That’s a cybernetic beast with guns. That can shoot other guns. Seriously, that’s almost enough to get me to back the game. The pitch video also makes it look like a lot of fun to play. If you’re into this sort of thing, definitely check it out. There’s even a demo to try out, something I plan on doing when I can.
What sets BeardedBear apart from other roguelike platforming action games is the unusual use of an experience system. While you can certainly level up your bearded bear by killing off mobs, if you don’t pick them up quickly enough they can get it and level themselves up. I find that a genius way to make things just a bit harder and to switch things up a bit.
I’m always on the lookout for an interesting and unique indie game, even if it’s in a genre I’m not particularly fond of. BeardedBear has just the right amount of absurdedness I’m looking for. After all, who doesn’t want to play as a bearded cybernetic bear that shoots guns that can shoot other guns?
