Every now and then, a game comes along that feels like it was pulled straight out of a dusty, neon-lit arcade cabinet from an alternate 1980s timeline. Robicon is exactly that kind of vibe. Developed by the Polish duo at Hidden Button, this tactical roguelite tower defense game is making waves with its fresh demo on Steam. If you are tired of the same old tower defense formula, this CRT-soaked strategy gem might just be the refresh button you have been waiting for [web:80][web:82].
It is not just about placing turrets and watching enemies explode (though there is plenty of that). Robicon mixes the thoughtful grid management of a puzzle game with the unpredictable chaos of a roguelite. Let’s dive into what makes this indie project stand out in a crowded genre.
More Than Just Tower Defense
At first glance, the loop sounds familiar: defend your base against waves of robotic enemies. But Robicon throws a wrench in the works with its “merge” mechanic. You play on a limited grid, meaning you can’t just spam towers everywhere. Instead, you have to combine them to upgrade their power, forcing you to make tough choices about positioning and resource management [web:80][web:84].
This mechanic adds a layer of “Tetris-like” strategy. Do you build wide to cover more ground, or do you merge tall to create a single super-turret that obliterates everything in a straight line? The choice is yours, but the relentless waves of enemies won’t wait for you to decide.
The Retro-Wave Aesthetic
Visually, the game is a love letter to vintage computing and synthwave culture. The interface mimics an old-school CRT monitor, complete with scanlines and a glorious phosphor glow. It is not just a filter; it is a cohesive art style that makes every menu and explosion feel tactile and nostalgic. Coupled with a thumping synth soundtrack, it creates an atmosphere that is easy to get lost in for hours [web:82].
Roguelite Elements Keep It Fresh
Because it is a roguelite, no two runs are the same. Between waves, you draft upgrades and modifiers that can drastically change your build. Maybe you get a module that slows enemies down, or perhaps a risky upgrade that boosts damage but lowers your fire rate. The “Commander” system also lets you pick a leader with unique stats, adding another layer of customization to your run [web:84].
Game Features at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Genre | Roguelite Tower Defense |
| Core Mechanic | Tower Merging & Grid Management |
| Visual Style | CRT / Synthwave / Retro-Tech |
| Developer | Hidden Button (Indie Duo) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Robicon free to play?
The game has a free demo available on Steam and Itch.io right now, but the full game will likely be a paid release [web:84].
Who is developing Robicon?
It is being developed by Hidden Button, a two-person indie team based in Poland [web:82].
What platforms is it on?
Currently, Robicon is available on PC via Steam. There is no official word on console ports yet [web:80].
Does it have controller support?
Yes, the Steam page lists full controller support, which is great for a grid-based game like this [web:87].
Is it difficult?
As a roguelite, it is designed to be challenging. You will likely fail a few times before you figure out the best tower combinations and grid layouts.
Conclusion
Robicon is a fantastic example of what small teams can achieve with a clear vision and a lot of style. It takes the addictive “just one more turn” energy of Civilization and mashes it with the high-stakes tension of Kingdom Rush. If you have a Steam Deck or just love a good strategy game, give the demo a spin. It might just be your new obsession.