Gauntlet vs Risk of Rain
Gauntlet
Gauntlet is a 4-player cooperative (both online and on splitscreen mode) dungeon crawler that guarantees hours of dungeon crawling action for you and your friends. Since each level is randomly generated, you'll never encounter the same level twice! Not to mention, Gauntlet has a gameplay that feels a lot like Diablo 3, where you can battle hordes of enemies for shiny loot, rare Relics, which you can then use to unlock new abilities, and of course, glory. You can even play as one of four archetype characters namely Warrior, Elf, Wizard and the most unique character, Valkyrie.Overall, Gauntlet is a dungeon crawler that is incredibly fun to play with friends despite its apparent lack of a storyline. Every element of the game just seemed to come together so well after all. So, if you're a fan os dungeon crawlers and have some friends with the same interests, well, this game may just be the game you all need.
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).