Monolith (2017)

Monolith was developed by Team D-13 and released for Windows, where it has been available on Steam. The game was built using GameMaker Studio, which is reflected in its 2D pixel-art visual style and fast real-time action gameplay. The scope of its platform availability has been primarily PC-focused since its 2017 release.

Monolith distinguishes itself from Enter the Gungeon by leaning much harder into pure bullet-hell patterns, with dense projectile formations more reminiscent of Japanese arcade shooters by studios like Cave than of the dungeon-crawl structure of Gungeon. Compared to Nuclear Throne, which emphasizes fast movement and melee options, Monolith focuses on precision dodging and weapon management across procedurally arranged floors. Players who find Enter the Gungeon too slow and Nuclear Throne too chaotic often cite Monolith as a middle ground with its own tight, punishing identity.

Monolith supports both keyboard and controller input, with most experienced players preferring a controller for the twin-stick shooting mechanics. The game's bullet-hell dodge patterns benefit from analog stick precision, though keyboard users report the controls are responsive and remappable. Players should check the game's Steam store page for the most current information on supported controller models.

Monolith features multiple procedurally arranged floors, each culminating in boss encounters that test the player's ability to navigate complex bullet patterns while dealing damage. The game offers a variety of collectible weapons and upgrades that modify firing patterns, speed, and defensive capabilities across runs. Because the roguelite structure randomizes floor layouts and item availability, no two runs are identical, and discovering synergies between weapons and upgrades is central to the gameplay loop.