Dark Gnome vs Torchlight
Dark Gnome
Dark Gnome is a fun, pixel-style 2D fantasy RPG that's fresh from the oven from Upjers. Currently available for players who know how to read German, the game will have you set up your ultimate team of warriors and send them to battle various creatures in the game's many dungeon-like locations for amazing loot. You can recruit new heroes from the tavern and equip them with the best gear you have. You can even help injured warriors recover by sending them over to the only medical tent in town.The old-school-styled combat system in this game, on the other hand, is mainly turn-based and allows you to choose which action to take, be it to attack or to stand your ground.
Dark Gnome is a game that gives off a strong 2D dungeon crawler vibe which, I believe many players would probably enjoy. The game is currently in its Open Beta phase and once it is officially released, hopefully, Upjers will provide an English version for their global players.
Torchlight
Torchlight is a fun dungeon crawling game that features an epic storyline, thrilling action and a loyal pet companion, which you can customize, to boot! Assemble a team of three heroes and descend into the monsters-filled caverns below the town in search of the valuable and rare ore, Ember, as well as plenty of riches and glory. You can even take a breather in between all the monster slaying to head off to a fishing pool and go fishing. The fishes you get are surprisingly powerful though - they can be fed to your loyal companion and turn it into powerful battle allies rather than just being a pack mule.Like most dungeon crawlers, randomization is key to the gameplay, giving players a fresh new experience everytime they replay the game, but of course, mod support also gives the game an even longer lifespan. To faciliate this replayability, the game even has a retirement system in place which allow you to pass down prized equipment to your new heroes as you "retire" the old one.
Torchlight may not have enjoyed a following that's large as Diablo, but the game has its own group of loyal fans and hardcore players who still play the game. The game itself feels so much more lighthearted than the dark demonic tones of the latter and is perfect for players who enjoy dungeon crawlers but dislike being scared silly by grotesque creatures of hell.