Tears of Vanfell is a premium action game that blends roguelike intensity with dungeon-crawling exploration in a fast-paced, unforgiving world. Set against a bleak medieval backdrop, it delivers a tense and atmospheric experience that sets the tone for a tense, uphill journey.

Players of Tears of Vanfell can expect a gritty climb filled with threats, veiled lore, and a persistent sense of discovery. With its mix of solo and co-op gameplay, it echoes the pace and tone of games like Hades, while standing apart through its heavy combat focus and unique world-building. 

A climb fueled by lore and combat

Tears of Vanfell begins at the base of a towering mountain, where players must battle their way upward. As the journey unfolds, scattered story clues hint at the aftermath of a century-old war. Along the path, various characters share fragments of the world’s past. These encounters gradually build context, giving players a clearer sense of what they're fighting through and why it matters.

The game thrives on a roguelike loop paired with fast-paced hack-and-slash combat. Each run introduces procedurally generated dungeons filled with branching paths, diverse enemies, and randomized loot. As a result, no two climbs feel the same, encouraging constant adaptation. Between runs, players return to a central base camp to unlock new allies, upgrades, and tools. This hub acts as a place to regroup and prepare for the next attempt.

The game's co-op mode allows up to four players to ascend together. In these sessions, teamwork is essential, as group strategies can significantly impact success. Visually, the 2.5D hand-drawn art gives the game a distinct look without overwhelming the action. Altogether, the game offers a rewarding blend of reflex and strategy. Still, with Early Access ongoing, some elements may continue to develop over time.

A promising journey worth trying out

Ultimately, Tears of Vanfell delivers a promising blend of dungeon crawling and roguelike gameplay with a focus on action and teamwork. The core systems already offer satisfying depth, and the art direction gives a strong visual identity. That said, its Early Access status means it’s still in progress. For players open to exploring the current features, they can try the game's free demo version.