5 Reasons Why You Should Be Playing Rollerdrome
21
Aug 22
Aka why I can’t stop playing Rollerdrome.

Rollerdrome is the latest game from developer Roll7, and let me tell you, it is an absolute blast to play! Combining fast-paced rollerblading locomotion mechanics with intense shoot ‘em up gameplay, it’s a thrill ride I just can’t seem to put down. So then, here are five reasons why you should be playing Rollerdrome!
1) Perfect for shorter play sessions
With each arena taking no more than 10 minutes to complete (excluding all the challenges and high score runs) this is a great title to pick up and play when you have a spare few minutes. With no cumbersome menus to traverse in order to begin a level, you’ll be rolling around popping off grenades in no time. It’s also worth mentioning that it runs at a smooth 60 frames per second on the Steam Deck, so you can even play whilst on the go!
2.) Lots of replayability!

Just like in other games that have optional challenges or high scores to best, the potential unlimited replayability of Rollerdrome is a welcome addition. You’d be hard pressed to complete every task in a level on your first run through, so going back to older levels — especially when you’ve unlocked more weapons — is a must for those that want to tick every box on the challenge list. Beating the game once also unlocks the Out For Blood mode, with its own set of leaderboards for those that want an extra tough challenge.
3) It’s a unique experience
How many games have you played that lets you pull off a gnarly grind whilst simultaneously blasting a mech with a shotgun? I personally can’t think of any, which is one of the many reasons Rollerdrome is such a unique title! As mentioned in the previous point, the challenges offer up a variety of ways to play through each level that you may not have tried if you stick to a specific method of playing.
4) You need more Jet Set Radio in your life

Jet Set Radio is one of my all-time favourite games. It’s effortlessly cool, has a great art style, and at the time of its release was something completely unheard of in terms of gameplay. The absolute joy I felt when playing Rollerdrome for the first time and instantly being reminded of this SEGA classic was wonderful. Sure, aesthetically Jet Set Radio is a lot more bright and cheerful, and your illegal activities stop at petty vandalism, but compare the games and you’re sure to come across some similarities.
5) The visual style
I’m not one for cutting-edge graphics making a game must-play, but the cell-shaded, 1970s comic book-esque visuals in Rollerdrome are absolutely gorgeous. The entire colour palette and “retro-future” tone is reminiscent of those old science fiction movies set in the distant future of 2001 (I heard we’ll have flying cars by then!) and it’s got a certain flair that isn’t seen enough in videogames.
Those were five reasons why you should be playing Rollerdrome, although I could have listed many more for this year's hottest new bloodsport!