Remember your first video game? For many, it was the iconic Atari classic, Pong. Now, 53 years after its groundbreaking debut, the game that arguably started it all has been dramatically re-envisioned for a new generation. Prepare yourself for Ball x Pit, an unexpected roguelike twist on Pong from the minds at Devolver Digital and indie developer Kenny Sun. And trust us, it’s fantastic.
This game is a significant departure from Kenny Sun’s previous works, like Twinfold, Yankai’s Peak, or Circa Infinity, which are known for their minimalist aesthetics and clever use of bold colors and shapes. Those titles often felt like cubist art translated into game form, focusing on essential mechanics with a clean presentation. Ball x Pit, however, embraces a maximalist philosophy.
While it may not explode with the vibrant hues of a game like Ultros, Ball x Pit rapidly fills your screen with a relentless storm of bullets and escalating damage numbers. It’s a high-octane bullet hell experience where your primary objective is to redirect incoming fire using your familiar Pong-style paddle.
The gameplay conjures memories of Creature in the Well, an often-overlooked indie gem from 2019, which merged dungeon crawling with pinball-like mechanics. But Ball x Pit infuses this concept with deep roguelike elements. You’ll find yourself meticulously optimizing character builds, strategizing through countless rounds, and striving to push your damage output to its absolute limit in each new attempt.
Initially, the sheer volume of information and action on screen might seem overwhelming. Yet, Ball x Pit has a unique way of drawing you in. From the very first bullet fired, the dynamic, ball-based combat keeps you utterly captivated, pulling you deeper into its frenetic rhythm until the thrilling conclusion of your run. Imagine the simple elegance of Pong fused with the endless progression of a roguelike, or the satisfying bounce of Peggle combined with the frenetic survival of Vampire Survivors. It’s a truly exhilarating and highly addictive experience.
Ball x Pit is available now on Steam. You can purchase the full game or try out the free demo to experience the action for yourself.
If you enjoy the unique blend of genres in Ball x Pit, you might also love exploring other top indie games or the best action games that offer similar thrills and challenge.