Overview of Stupid Never Dies
During my first appointment at Gamescom 2026, I experienced Stupid Never Dies, a unique roguelike that flips the narrative of classic dungeon-crawling games. Instead of attempting to escape hell as a heroic figure, players embody a bumbling zombie breaking into hell.
Gameplay Mechanics
Created by Capcom veteran Hiroyuki Kobayashi, known for his work on Devil May Cry, the game features exciting and fluid combat reminiscent of that title. Players engage in traditional attack, dodge, and parry mechanics, but with a quirky twist: the “Stupid Parry.” This feature allows the small zombie protagonist to absorb enormous attacks by charging into them, with the risk of taking damage in exchange for launching a powerful counterattack.
Combat Flow
The game’s combat is designed for fast-paced action, with no interruptions for flashy deflections. The focus is on continuous engagement and quick decision-making, making combat feel exhilarating and rewarding.
Roguelike Elements
Stupid Never Dies introduces a fresh take on roguelikes by turning each run into a timed experience. As players progress, they can extend the timer by skipping floors, adding an element of risk and strategy. The zombie character can bite enemies to regain health, utilizing a “Bite Meter” that replenishes health based on the enemies defeated.
Transformations
Players can also absorb enemy powers, allowing them to temporarily transform into different creatures. Each transformation offers unique playstyles, keeping gameplay interesting and varied across runs.
Conclusion
After two runs, with one ending in failure due to time constraints and the other culminating in an intense boss battle, I left wanting more. The fun mechanics, notably the Stupid Parry, and robust combat system made for an engaging experience. Stupid Never Dies is set to release on PlayStation 5 and PC on October 21, and I eagerly anticipate diving back into its chaotic underworld.
For readers interested in upcoming games, check out our review of Onimusha: Way of the Sword, which promises to be another exciting release from Capcom.
