Vampire Survivors, developed and self-published by Poncie, is a game that masterfully captures the magic of retro gaming while introducing a refreshingly modern twist. Its simplicity is deceptive, offering an “easy to learn, difficult to master” gameplay loop that sinks its teeth into you and refuses to let go. Having spent about 60 hours immersed in this pixelated world—split between Xbox Game Pass on my television and Steam—I can attest to its brilliance. That time includes some of the darkest days of my health journey, where Vampire Survivors became more than just a game; it was a beacon of joy and a reminder of why gaming holds such a special place in our lives.


At its core, Vampire Survivors is a game about survival. You guide a lone character against waves of increasingly challenging enemies, using a wide array of weapons and defensive abilities to stay alive. The thrill lies in its progression system: each minute survived, each upgrade chosen, and every evolved weapon feels earned. The game rewards experimentation, allowing players to discover synergies between weapons and passive abilities that can transform a run from desperate to unstoppable.

Despite its simplicity, the depth of strategy is remarkable. With a limited pool of upgrades during any given run, every decision carries weight, making each session uniquely engaging. The addictive nature of the gameplay is undeniable—there’s always a sense of “just one more run.”


The game’s retro-inspired pixel art is bursting with charm. While the screen can become overwhelmingly busy with enemies, projectiles, and particle effects, the clarity of its design ensures that even players with vision challenges, like myself, can enjoy the chaos. During my time playing while legally blind, I was amazed at how accessible Vampire Survivors remained. The visual cues and intuitive gameplay allowed me to thrive in the mayhem, an accomplishment that speaks volumes about its thoughtful design.


The game pays homage to classics like Gauntlet and Castlevania, evoking a wave of nostalgia for gamers who grew up with those titles. Yet, it avoids being derivative by injecting a modern sensibility into its mechanics and presentation. It doesn’t merely mimic—it builds upon its influences to create something entirely its own.

Speaking of Castlevania, the recent collaborations—featuring elements from the beloved franchise—are a testament to Poncie’s commitment to expanding the game in exciting ways. These partnerships bring a sense of legitimacy and freshness, keeping the experience alive for veteran players while enticing newcomers.


If there’s one area where Vampire Survivors falters slightly, it’s in its sound design. While the music and effects are thematically appropriate and align with the retro aesthetic, they can sometimes feel repetitive. However, this is a minor criticism in a game where the visuals and gameplay take center stage.


Vampire Survivors is a triumph—a love letter to retro gaming that manages to innovate within a crowded indie market. For me, it was more than just a game; it was a source of immense joy during challenging times. Its addictive gameplay, thoughtful design, and nostalgic yet refreshing presentation make it a must-play for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. Poncie has created something truly special, and I can’t wait to see how the game evolves with future updates and collaborations.

Whether you’re dodging death itself or marveling at your latest weapon evolution, Vampire Survivors offers an experience that’s both timeless and unforgettable.