Shape of Dreams is an action roguelike, but it goes well beyond the usual genre expectations. Roguelikes are everywhere these days, and while they come in many different flavours, it can sometimes feel like you’re playing the same game dressed up in a new skin. Shape of Dreams avoids that trap, thanks to a range of clever mechanics and hidden depth that help it stand out from the crowd.
The game features multiple characters, each with their own active and passive abilities, stats, and distinct playstyles. On top of that, every run introduces a selection of skills known as memories. There’s a substantial pool to draw from, and over time you’ll naturally gravitate toward certain combinations depending on your character and goals. In multiplayer, for instance, pairing a dedicated healer with a tanky frontline character can make even the toughest encounters manageable.
Adding another layer of customisation are essences – small gems that can be socketed into your memories. Each memory can hold up to three essences, allowing you to dramatically alter how a skill behaves. One essence might periodically fire off scaling fireballs as it’s upgraded, while others add powerful effects such as flashbang-style bursts or even the ability to summon a black hole when casting a skill.
The freedom to mix and match characters, memories, and essences results in a frankly absurd number of viable builds. Mastering these systems becomes essential when tackling higher difficulty settings or the game’s punishing Limbo mode. All of this is wrapped in excellent visual and sound design, with each area feeling distinct and energetic, making every run both exhilarating and visually striking.
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