Best PS5 Dungeon Crawlers

Content Manager at RetroStyle Games | Feb 10, 2025

More people are trying gaming through consoles like the PS5. So, it’s natural for an increasing variety in genres for such a format. That’s where dungeon crawlers step in. They’re just right for people wanting to escape the mainstream title. Such games will satisfy a hint of nostalgia among old fans from the first PlayStation era. However, they’re also including new mechanics for the modern gamer.

It’s a genre that allows a person to dive in and experience immersion through exploration, combats, and strategic progressions. Dungeon crawlers are rewinding to the classics and discovering new titles, they have something for everyone. But what does a dungeon crawler really entail? Let’s see what defines a dungeon crawler better and how games like Vampire Survivors capture the genre.

What is a Dungeon Crawler Game?

Dungeon crawlers carved their niche within gaming. It hypnotizes players with fresh mechanics and deep gameplay. Most new dungeon-crawler games include labyrinthine exploration, fighting, gathering loot, and levels of growing difficulty. Though they share many general similarities with the roguelike genre, the focus is different. For dungeon crawlers, the main focus is on exploration, resource management, and methodical combat, and this is what sets them apart.

Most gamers have a pretty general idea of what makes a game roguelike. It’s procedural generation and permadeath. But what sets apart the definition of a dungeon crawler? Why is this genre attracting players in droves? Let’s look at what actually makes dungeon crawler games on PS5 exciting.

Curious about roguelikes? Want more? Check what's a roguelike game for a more specific comparison.

Top 10 Dungeon Crawlers on PS5

Dungeon crawlers have risen to become a genre that harmonizes exploration, strategy, and action. From classic roguelikes to modern twists in this genre, these games are everything a gamer desires. Now, we have brought a list of the best dungeon crawlers on PS5 that you definitely don’t want to miss. Let’s look at the top 10 dungeon crawlers:

10. Ocean Keeper

Ocean Keeper by RetroStyle Games is an indie treasure that was released in 2024. It’s a free dungeon crawler game, and it stands out with its unique underwater mechanics. The game combines roguelike elements with survival. It challenges the player to manage oxygen, and resources, and combat aquatic threats. Every dive is different, thanks to dynamic environments and evolving challenges. Its originality, visual prowess, and addictive gameplay loop make it a well-deserved inclusion in this list. If you’re looking for an immersive experience on PS5, then this is one not to be missed.

9. Death's Door

It was developed by Acid Nerve and published by Devolver Digital in 2021. Death’s Door is an action-adventure dungeon crawler with a melancholic atmosphere. The game follows a crow who works as a reaper, collecting souls while unraveling a mysterious world full of secrets. Some of the core mechanics of the game include tight combat, puzzle-solving, and exploring. The game has a stunning art style, an extremely engaging story, and a rewarding difficulty curve. Death’s Door easily finds its place among the very best of this genre, placing it within the top 10.

8. Children of Morta

Children of Morta is a story-driven dungeon crawler created by Dead Mage and first released in 2019. With crafted pixel art against a fantasy background, the game shows how one family guards their lands from corruption. Each one possesses individual and distinctive competence, making plays quite different. It’s richly composed of procedurally generated dungeons, coupled with heartfelt storytelling. This will be an unforgettable trip that blends a roguelike with heavy-hearted depth.

7. Dungeons & Dragons: Dark Alliance

Developed by Tuque Games and released in 2021, Dark Alliance is an action RPG. It brings the iconic universe of Dungeons & Dragons to life through dungeon crawling. The game allows players to team up in co-op or go solo through the campaign. You can fight the way through hordes of monsters across beautifully realized environments. They were inspired by the Forgotten Realms. With fast-paced combat and epic boss fights, this game deserves to be on the list.

6. Salt and Sanctuary

Developed by Ska Studios in 2016, Salt and Sanctuary is a mix of dungeon crawling and platformer level design. A gothic world of challenging enemies demands skill and patience from players. With its hand-drawn graphical design, the deeply rewarding combat has led many to refer to this game as a love letter to Dark Souls. This title will be a must-have for your PS5 if you’re a fan of full-fledged actions.

5. Nobody Saves the World

Nobody Saves the World is a 2022 DrinkBox Studios PS5 dungeon crawler. The game is developed by the makers of Guacamelee! Comedy and quirky, innovative gameplay enables you to transform into several forms. A rat, a knight, and even a horse with skills for all of them. Its quirky charm and appealing mechanics make it a must-have for any PS5 gamer. It’s great if you’re looking for something a little different.

4. Hades

Hades, released by Supergiant Games in 2020, was an entirely new take on isometric games. It has an excellent visual atmosphere, fast-paced action, and well-developed storytelling. Players are placed in the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to flee from the Underworld. The game’s roguelike elements can unlock further dialogues and upgrades with each run.

3. Dragon’s Crown Pro

Vanillaware’s 2018 edition of Dragon’s Crown Pro is the remastered version of this original 2013 game. This side-scrolling dungeon crawler mixes hand-drawn visuals with classic RPG gameplay. Players will select one of many character classes to explore dungeons, defeat enemies, and collect treasures. Each class comes with its set of unique abilities. This game is a co-op multiplayer dungeon crawler on PS5. It amplifies this experience, and it is for this reason that it remains a timeless classic.

2. Diablo III

Blizzard Entertainment’s legendary Diablo III is one of the greatest dungeon crawlers since its release in 2012. Its refined gameplay, expansive world, and cooperative play make it endlessly replayable. The game is renowned for its incredible 3D modeling. If you’re inspired by Diablo’s stunning visuals and want to create a similar experience, consider checking out 3D game modeling services.

1. Torchlight II

From Runic Games, Torchlight II is an action RPG released in 2012 to critical acclaim. It’s one of the best roguelikes on PS5. The game hooks players with its bright, colorful cel-shaded art style. According to Reddit’s discussion, people like it because the game has extensive dungeon crawling, customizable pets, and many character classes. Replayability is ensured through its randomized maps and NG+ system. Charming visuals, fluid mechanics, and great gameplay make it an absolute standout for fans of dungeon crawlers. If you’re drawn to games with unique artistic styles, such as the Borderland’s art style, Torchlight II will undoubtedly impress.

Summary

From the rich variety and depth of the dungeon crawler genre, the games we’ve covered show a wide variety. If you’re new to this type of game, starting with something like Ocean Keeper and Hades is a great choice. This game has beginner-friendly mechanics and a vibrant art style. For more experienced players seeking a challenge, titles like Torchlight II or Diablo III will suit better.

The success of such games is a question not only of mechanics, but quality 2D game animation outsourcing turns their worlds into flesh and blood. Engaging animations and compelling art styles amp up this in-game experience. While it is mechanics that keep the genre going, visuals and animations are what actually drown a player.