Playing a roguelite game usually asks gamers to play until their character perishes. Then, they keep some kind of currency or items to level up, making future runs more manageable. However, those who try this tactic in Witchfire will find they remain at level one forever with no possible upgrade options.
This doesn't mean that leveling up is impossible. Witchfire does have a means of leveling up but it's unique. Knowing how leveling works in roguelite or roguelike games will mislead players in this game. Once players understand how leveling up works, it will dramatically change the way they play going forward.
How To Level Up
- Start a new expedition.
- Gain experience by killing enemies, looting chests, and completing objectives.
- Leave through a portal before dying.
- Spend experience at the Ascension Shrine to level up.
The issue with dying in Witchfire is that players will leave behind almost everything: items, keys, mushrooms, experience, treasures, and more. Research will progress but that's about it. When it comes to the competition for BioShock successors, this game will be among the least fun to play when repeatedly dying.
To level up regularly, visit the Ascension Shrine and see how much experience it will take to level up in the lower right. After getting that experience amount, leave through the nearest portal. The devs are proud of the combat and it is tempting to keep going but it risks all the progress made up to that point.
When dying, be sure to get back to the previous death and pick up the dropped loot. This works for one death but be warned that dying before getting back to the death spot will result in that loot disappearing forever, being replaced by the loot at the new death point.
Early levels can be tough but it does get better. After level three, most of the game's basic upgrade systems will be unlocked. Don't be ashamed to gain just one level at a time, progress is intended to be slow and steady.
Witchfire is available now for PC.