ELbab

It has potential, could very well be the most absurd roguelite autobattler and any build you can think of could work, since this game is akin to a playable PoB, but it needs more diverse active skills, less RNG, and a ton of polishing.

ELbab is a thoughtful and unconventional roguelite that trades moment-to-moment reflexes for long-term planning, experimentation, and build mastery. Developed and published by makz, the game unfolds within a vast, ever-shifting library where each run is shaped by the player’s choices rather than direct combat input. Instead of actively attacking enemies, the player’s role is that of an architect—deciding which paths to take, which books and modifiers to collect, and how to assemble a build capable of surviving increasingly punishing encounters. This approach immediately sets ELbab apart from more action-focused roguelikes, offering a slower, more cerebral experience that rewards foresight and system understanding. The core loop revolves around navigating a branching, tile-based map that determines the flow of each run. Every tile represents a potential opportunity or threat, from combat encounters and treasure rooms to special conversion spaces and enhancement nodes. Choosing where to go is rarely trivial, as short-term gains can easily sabotage long-term survival if they do not align with the direction your build is taking. Runs are deliberately substantial in length, often stretching well beyond a quick pick-up session, which gives each attempt a sense of weight and commitment. Success feels earned through careful optimization, while failure often provides clear lessons about which choices or combinations didn’t quite work. Combat itself unfolds automatically, with units and abilities triggering based on the structure you’ve assembled rather than direct player input. While this may initially seem passive, it places enormous importance on preparation and synergy. Books act as the backbone of progression, functioning as skills, units, or modifiers that fundamentally alter how your build behaves. With a large and varied pool of books available, experimentation becomes central to the experience, as subtle changes can dramatically shift performance. Some builds lean toward overwhelming sustained damage, others toward survivability or conditional effects that reward specific sequencing. Watching a carefully constructed setup succeed can be deeply satisfying, especially when the outcome hinges on smart decisions made many rooms earlier. Visually, ELbab embraces a clean and readable pixel art style that supports its strategic focus. The library setting is understated but atmospheric, and the clarity of sprites and effects ensures that even automated battles remain easy to follow. Rather than overwhelming the screen with flashy effects, the game prioritizes legibility, allowing players to understand why a fight was won or lost. The audio design complements this restrained approach, with music and sound effects that reinforce a contemplative tone rather than driving adrenaline. Together, these elements create an experience that feels calm and methodical, even when the underlying systems are pushing the player to their limits. As an Early Access title, ELbab naturally shows some rough edges. Balance can occasionally feel uneven, with certain enemy spikes or book combinations proving disproportionately powerful or weak. The depth of its systems also means that tooltips and explanations sometimes fall short, leaving players to infer mechanics through trial and error. Meta-progression outside individual runs is relatively light, which may make repeated attempts feel less rewarding for those accustomed to roguelites that offer constant permanent upgrades. However, these issues feel more like growing pains than fundamental flaws, and the game’s underlying design shows a strong sense of direction and identity. Ultimately, ELbab is a game for players who enjoy deliberate decision-making and the satisfaction of watching a carefully planned strategy unfold. It asks for patience, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment, but it gives back a uniquely relaxed yet mentally engaging roguelite experience. While it may not appeal to players seeking fast reflex-driven action, it stands out as a distinctive alternative within the genre, one that emphasizes understanding systems over mastering execution. With continued refinement and expansion, ELbab has the potential to become a quietly compelling staple for fans of strategic, build-focused roguelites. Rating: 6/10