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Deathtrap blends the strategic challenge of tower defense with the character progression of an action RPG. Developed by NeocoreGames, creators of The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing, Deathtrap offers a unique gameplay experience, but falls short of its potential in several areas. This review explores the game’s strengths and weaknesses, examining its core mechanics, character classes, upgrade system, and overall presentation.

Deathtrap Gameplay

Engaging Gameplay Hybrid

Deathtrap’s core gameplay loop revolves around strategically placing traps to thwart waves of monsters attempting to breach a portal to the world of Ink. Players navigate the map, setting traps powered by Essence, a resource gained from defeating enemies. The limited supply of Essence adds a layer of strategic depth, forcing players to carefully consider trap placement and type. A red path indicates the enemies’ movement, allowing for proactive trap deployment.

Beyond the tower defense elements, Deathtrap incorporates RPG mechanics, allowing players to choose from three distinct character classes: the Mercenary, the Sorceress, and the Marksman. Each class offers a unique playstyle: the Mercenary excels in melee combat with crowd control abilities, the Sorceress wields powerful magic, and the Marksman specializes in ranged attacks and mobility. This class diversity adds replayability and allows for different strategic approaches to each level.

Character Classes

The RPG elements extend to a loot and equipment system reminiscent of games like Diablo III and Torchlight. Players can acquire weapons, armor, rings, and necklaces to enhance their character’s stats. Side quests within each level offer additional rewards and ensure a steady flow of resources.

Versatile Upgrade System

Deathtrap features a comprehensive upgrade system for both characters and traps. Each character has a unique skill tree with multiple branches, offering customization options for different playstyles. While the skill selection isn’t extensive, each skill feels impactful and avoids redundancy.

Upgrade System

The trap upgrade system is equally robust, with various options for enhancing damage, adding effects, and altering functionality. For example, spike traps can be upgraded to inflict greater damage or slow enemies, while turrets can gain increased range or firing rate. The ability to reset upgrades provides flexibility for experimentation and allows players to adapt to different enemy types and level layouts.

Trap Variety

Lackluster Challenge and Narrative

Despite a promising start, Deathtrap’s difficulty curve falls flat. After acquiring some basic equipment and upgrades, the game becomes surprisingly easy. Even on later levels, the challenge feels underwhelming, with enemies posing little threat to a well-equipped character and strategically placed traps. This lack of difficulty undermines the strategic depth of the tower defense mechanics.

Lack of Difficulty

The narrative also falls short. While each character has a unique backstory presented in opening and closing cutscenes, the story during gameplay feels generic and underdeveloped. The dark and atmospheric setting had potential for a compelling narrative, but the game fails to capitalize on it.

Technical and Presentation Issues

Deathtrap suffers from several technical and presentational shortcomings. The camera, inherited from The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing, can be obstructive, hindering visibility during crucial moments. The user interface is cluttered and the small text size makes reading information difficult. Minor bugs, such as clipping and enemy AI issues, further detract from the overall experience.

Camera Issues

Conclusion

Deathtrap offers a fun and engaging blend of tower defense and RPG elements. The core gameplay loop, character classes, and upgrade system are well-designed and provide a satisfying sense of progression. However, the lack of difficulty, underdeveloped narrative, and technical issues prevent the game from reaching its full potential. While Deathtrap offers a few hours of enjoyable gameplay, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity.