Flame in the Flood vs Risk of Rain
Flame in the Flood
Flame in the Flood is a rather unique survival game that's developed by the ex-developers of Bioshock. Instead of featuring an open world, the game places you on a rickety raft, which you can then upgrade as you gather the necessary materials, that's being dragged down a long windy river. The waters aren't always smooth and easily navigatable as you might expect and from time to time, particularly in between "zones", you'll encounter a stretch of whitewater rapids that will truly challenge your rafting skills.In this game, you will also encounter locations where you can dock your raft at and explore. From churches to farms, each location offers varying amount of resources for you to gather, and if you're lucky, a place for you to take shelter for the night. These locations aren't all safe though! Aside from the more harmless wildlife like rabbits, you may encounter dangerous animals that can cause severe harm to your character - you may even die either from being gored by a wild boar or from injuries sustained from the fight.
As a survival game, there are several indicators that you'll need to keep your eyes on. Fail to do so and you may die of exhaustion, thirst, hunger or hypothermia. The game also features a pretty in-depth crafting system where you can produce useful items like bandages for your wounds and clothes to keep your character warm.
Flame in the Flood is a truly hardcore survival game. It's merciless in its gameplay, pitting you against challenges after challenges until your character can take no more. If you get frustrated easily, this is definitely not for you, but if you love a challenge, you might just want to give this game a try.
Risk of Rain
Risk of Rain is a rogue-like, action platformer that is difficult enough to be challenging and is punishing (perma-death). You can choose to face the constantly spawning enemies alone - well, not exactly since you'll have your drone - or cooperatively with up to 3 other friends in hopes of collecting all the tools you need to find the teleporter machine and to finally, head back home. The enemies you fight are randomly generated by combining traits and abilities from a fixed yet extensive list as well, making the game a lot more unpredictable and hence, enjoyable.In addition to the 12 unique characters that you can unlock and a plethora of powerups to use, the game is also set on a mysterious planet with diverse biomes, ranging from dark forests to the frozen tundra. There is even an engrossing storyline which you can slowly piece together by collecting items and monster logs in your adventures.
Risk of Rain is definitely a fun and challenging platform game to play alone, but it particularly shines when you play it with friends. Time just seems to fly by in co-op mode and of course, let's not forget about the hilarious moments when one of you messed up (intentionally or otherwise).