Death by Scrolling
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About Death by Scrolling
Death by Scrolling is a vertically scrolling rogue-like RPG developed by Terrible Toybox and published by MicroProse. Released in October 2025, it runs on PC, Linux, and Mac. Combining beat 'em up action with roguelike progression, players fight through procedurally generated levels in Purgatory, collecting gold to bribe the Ferryman and delay the Grim Reaper’s pursuit. The game emphasizes fast-paced combat, resource management, and permadeath mechanics. Its 80s arcade-inspired design and chaotic humor make it a quirky take on classic genre tropes. Ideal for fans of quick, replayable sessions with a dash of dark comedy.
Gameplay
Each run involves scrolling upward through levels filled with enemies, hazards, and gold. Combat is straightforward: melee and ranged attacks, dodges, and basic combos. Players collect loot to upgrade weapons and skills between deaths, but permadeath means every loss resets progress. Sessions last 15, 45 minutes, depending on skill and luck. The Grim Reaper chases you, forcing you to balance combat with evasion. Power-ups like healing potions and temporary damage boosts add variety. Controls are tight but basic, favoring rhythm and reflexes. The game’s charm lies in its simplicity and escalating tension as the Reaper closes in.
What Players Think
PlayPile users rate it 8.2/10, with 68% completion for main objectives and 42% for 100% runs. Average playtime is 12 hours. Community moods: 55% enjoyment, 30% frustration over RNG, 15% confusion about late-game strategies. Metacritic scores 81, praising its addictive loop but criticizing repetitive enemies. One review: “It’s like Q*bert on speed.” Another: “The Grim Reaper’s chase mechanic is brilliant but punishing.” The game has 47 achievements, averaging 4 earned per session. 72% of players say it’s “short but sharp,” while 28% call it “overly reliant on luck.”
PlayPile's Take
Priced at $24.99, Death by Scrolling is a budget-friendly pick for rogue-like and beat 'em up enthusiasts. It excels in quick sessions and chaotic fun but lacks depth for long-term engagement. The 47 achievements and 12-hour average suggest a modest time investment. While RNG-heavy sections may annoy some, the game’s simplicity and humor make it a solid choice for casual players. Buy it if you want a punchy, replayable experience with a cheeky twist on classic mechanics.
Game Modes
Single player
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