Reignbreaker review

• Available on PC
• Released on 19 March 2025
• Developed by Studio Fizbin

Every so often, a game comes out of nowhere and knocks your expectations flat. Reignbreaker is one of those games. Developed by Studio Fizbin, this medieval-punk roguelike blends slick combat, striking visuals and smart progression systems into a package that easily earns a place alongside genre greats like Hades. And yet, hardly anyone’s talking about it.

You take on the role of Clef, a rebel thrust into a revolution against a tyrannical monarchy. From the very first run, Reignbreaker is relentless. You’re dropped into the action with barely a hint of guidance, and while that’s disorienting, it’s also a rite of passage. Death comes quick. But back at your hub, you’ll find the tools to get stronger, customise your loadout and try again, only smarter this time.

The action is viewed from an isometric perspective, and it feels as good as it looks. Movement is buttery smooth, attacks land with impact, and every enemy encounter is a dance of dodging, lunging and striking. The main mechanic involves opening locks to create a path forward, each one triggering an enemy wave. Clear them under shifting conditions — time limits, damage restrictions, and so on — and you’ll earn run-specific upgrades that make all the difference.

Clef wields a javelin, and while it might sound limiting, it’s surprisingly versatile. You’ve got ranged shots, area blasts and rapid lunges, plus a set of unlockable javelins with distinct perks like damage-over-time effects. When all else fails, fists work too. Combined with a responsive dodge mechanic, Reignbreaker gives you everything you need to stay in the fight… if you’re quick enough.

As with most roguelikes, each death resets your run but earns you points to invest in permanent upgrades. More health, better damage, and faster dodges are just a few of the options on offer. It’s a smart system that ensures every run matters, whether you reach a boss or get wrecked two rooms in.

That loop is addictive, but if there’s one criticism, it’s the enemy variety. The same few types show up frequently, and more diversity, especially early on, would help keep things feeling fresh. Still, what’s here is well-balanced and consistently challenging. The boss fights, in particular, are standout encounters that push your skills to the limit.

It might not break the roguelike mould, but Reignbreaker sharpens its core ingredients to a fine point. For fans of fast-paced, satisfying action with a stylish flair, this is a game you shouldn’t miss. And at under a tenner? It’s one of the best gaming bargains of the year.