Rotwood has burst into the early access scene and has been making a lasting first impression since its release. This isn't the average dungeon crawl—Rotwood is a blend of genres, allowing players to get down and dirty, solo or co-op style with up to three friends. This 2.5D roguelike, beat 'em up, throws players into a beast-corrupted brawler that is filled with solid gameplay and a lot of potential.

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While it is still in early access, Rotwood offers a promising arsenal with four distinct weapon classes, each with strengths and weaknesses. Each weapon comes with its own set of combination moves and masteries, acting as a progression system to keep players hooked on the game. Button-mashing mayhem and a surprising depth of combat both require mastery points to unleash the game's full potential. Selecting the right weapon based on the preferred playstyle is crucial for surviving dungeons and maximizing the player's damage output. Discover the weapons that will turn a terrified novice into a legendary slayer—at least until the next early access update.

4 The Cannon

A Slow, Deliberate Barrage With High Damage

Rotwood Cannon Weapon
  • Unlock Cost: 9 Corestones
  • With limited shots per magazine, players must fight strategically
  • Perfect for the calculated takedown with a single, explosive blast

This acorn-wielding cannon is the final and most expensive weapon that players can unlock. Unlike the close-quarters brawling of the Hammer or the distant strikes of the Spear, the Cannon thrives on positioning and planning. A well-aimed shot can obliterate the toughest enemy, turning an extensive battle into an exciting brawl in an instant. This makes it a valuable asset against heavily armored enemies or bosses that players have trouble beating.

Arguably, the Cannon is the hardest weapon to master in the game. The Cannon isn't a weapon of endless fire and this forces players to be selective with their attacks, making every shot count. Limited dodging makes for a hectic playstyle, forcing players to stay focused and calm during reloads, usually relying on their heavy attack as their primary dodge. While the Cannon is the perfect obliteration of enemies, the lack of combos, chaotic reloads, and limited movement can leave players frustrated quickly.

3 The Hammer

Perfect For Beginners, Brutal Efficiency Makes Beast Slaying Easy

Rotwood Hammer Weapon-1
  • No Cost to Unlock
  • Powerful and slow, the Hammer excels at crowd control and massive target damage
  • Combos make for a great AoE that clears out enemies

This Hammer throws players into the action with a tough weapon by their side. It's the player's first weapon upon entering the game, and it's a solid starter. Packing a heavy hit, the Hammer thrives in close-range brawls, allowing players to dominate tight spaces and get to safety quickly. Heavy and light attacks both deal a fair amount of damage, at a cost. A weighted weapon means that attack speed is on the slower side, so players will need to be deliberate with their strikes, timing them strategically to maximize damage and avoid getting overwhelmed.

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All about the area of effect, the Hammer creates focused hits, ground pounding through swarms of monsters to dominate dungeons. Not everyone's top choice, some players may feel as if the Hammer is lackluster and dull compared to other weapons. The Hammer requires being in the enemy's face, making it less suitable for ranged combat or hit-and-run tactics. While some players may prefer to be at a distance, the Hammer offers a satisfying, in-your-face approach to combat, perfect for players who want to experience the raw power of Rotwood's brutal world.

2 The Spear

Maintain Distance To Dominate Enemies

Rotwood Spear Weapon
  • Unlock Cost: 5 Corestones
  • For a versatile player looking for balance between distance and precision
  • Lunges and aerial maneuvers make for a fun game of "hit-and-run" on enemies

The cheapest unlockable weapon, the Spear stands out in the brutal battle for survival. Unlike the blunt force of the Hammer or the dragging power of the Cannon, the Spear offers a unique playstyle that rewards agility, precision, and quick jabs. Players can weave through enemy attacks with ease, delivering pinpoint strikes before enemies can react. This constant movement keeps them out of harm's way while maintaining offensive pressure.

Like the other weapons in the game, gaining experience unlocks mastery perks that enhance its abilities, making it a high contender for battle. Consider investing in perks or skills that improve attack speed, damage output, or stamina management to take on enemies without losing focus on the mission. If survivability is at the top of the list, the Spear is the weapon that belongs in a player's arsenal whether playing solo or with friends.

1 The Striker

Mid-Range Mix Between Close Combat Melee And Ranged Attacks

Rotwood Strikers Weapon
  • Unlock Cost: 7 Corestone
  • Dynamic and versatile playstyle, keeping each level fresh while promising destruction
  • Improvisation comes easy as players engage in close and ranged combat

Rotwood made sure to get the ball rolling with this unpredictable, whirlwind of bouncing projectiles. The striker is a juggler master's dream, defying gravity and traditional gameplay. This weapon offers a playstyle that's equal parts strategic thinking, chaotic fun, and versatility.

Players throw this weapon at enemies, knocking them with a heavy blow. Landing hits on enemies sends the Strikers bouncing back towards them, where they can catch them for enhanced attacks - a unique and dynamic combat loop. Boomeranging as players click to summon the Striker back to them, this weapon makes for a combat party. The arrangement of combos offers an advanced experience with both mid and close-range. As such, the Striker is a weapon that suits all playstyles and needs of the game, a true, timeless weapon that players will enjoy mastering.

Rotwood Tag Page Cover Art
Rotwood

Platform(s)
PC
Released
April 24, 2024
Publisher(s)
Klei Entertainment
Genre(s)
Action , Dungeon Crawler