Conquest Dark

Builds are easier to plan (and execute) due to the proficiency limitations, which means a high level of consistency- the only times where I've felt like a build didn't come together is because I hadn't yet unlocked a skill that I was looking for.

Runs are a satisfying length, the level curve is smooth, different weapons and skills feel genuinely different to use, and the setting and style feel trope-y in a good way.

The total variety of upgrades isn't massive, but each class feels distinct, and each primary weapon's limitations in their skill choices means that the game has felt like choices matter more than most other games in the genre.

It's a small detail but having good lighting and textures makes a difference to me.

Great on Steam Deck, probably a "controller" game, but plays well with mouse and keyboard.

The ramp-up of enemy density / difficulty in a level is very strong, and difficulty also does a great job in being in the perfect sweet spot of making you feel strong but not invulnerable, which gives the player a sense of reward, in that *they're* the reason for their success, not just the game letting them win.