Protect the Oceans in 'Ocean Keeper,' Latest Game of the Week

TouchArcade Rating: A masterful blend of distinct gameplay styles is what makes Ocean Keeper shine. The game seamlessly integrates side-scrolling mining with top-down mech combat, reminiscent of titles like the Blaster Master series or the recent hit Dave the Diver. This unique combination, coupled with a compelling upgrade system and replayability, keeps players engaged for hours.

In Ocean Keeper, you crash-land your mech on an alien underwater planet, initiating a cycle of resource gathering and defense. The side-scrolling mining segments involve excavating resources and artifacts from underwater caves, earning in-game currency along the way. However, time is limited; waves of enemies soon approach, forcing you back into your mech for intense top-down twin-stick shooter action with light tower defense elements.

Gathered resources fuel upgrades for both your mining equipment and mech, branching skill trees providing significant customization options. The roguelike element means death resets progress within a run, but persistent upgrades ensure continuous advancement between playthroughs. Procedurally generated overworld and cave layouts add to the replayability.

While the initial stages may feel slow, and early runs challenging, perseverance is rewarded. As upgrades accumulate and skills improve, Ocean Keeper transforms into a thrilling experience. Experimenting with weapon and upgrade synergies is a core element of the game's appeal. The initially uncertain start gives way to an addictive gameplay loop that quickly makes it hard to put down.