Boosting Fun Gaming Experience: Surpassing Expectations Beyond the Three-Star Mark
The Formula Shakes Up in Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap
As I grew up, I became accustomed to valuing consistency and affordability above all else. This is why I still indulge in Burger King’s affordable double cheeseburgers, knowing exactly what I’m getting and it fills me up just fine. The Orcs Must Die! series, which debuted in 2011, serves a similar purpose. These games have always been about killing thousands of orcs using traps, swords, and bows, never expensive, always solid, and sticking to a straightforward, satisfying formula.
A New Kind of Formula in Deathtrap
But the latest game in the series, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap, throws a wrench in the works. While it’s not as good as its predecessors, like a double cheeseburger missing ketchup, it still gets the job done and I still enjoy it.
The Latest Instalment in the Series
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is the fourth game in the series, and, similar to the title, you play as a warrior who can kill orcs directly using various weapons or magic. The twist this time around? The game is more like a roguelike, with randomly generated modifiers activated, making you replay maps with different settings and abilities. Each run is made up of two or more randomly generated missions and a harder boss fight featuring even more orcs and places to set up traps. Earning skulls for completing runs allows you to upgrade traps or unlock new skills.
The Verdict
While the random features should add to the game’s replayability, the repetitive maps and limited barrier placement make it feel like a grind. To beat the game, you’ll need to put in the effort to upgrade your traps and max out your skills. Don’t get me wrong, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is still enjoyable with friends, but I hope the next installment returns to the level-based formula with some added roguelike twists.
Availability
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is set to release on January 28 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, and will be available on Game Pass from day one.
