Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.1/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 42,751

Mobile Support: No

About Hello Rogue

Step into the nostalgic, pixel-rich universe of Hello Rogue—a pocket-sized indie roguelike that distills classic dungeon crawling into a brisk, easy-to-pick-up browser adventure. Inspired by legendary game jams like 7DRL and the inventive Bitsy scene, Hello Rogue captures the heart and soul of retro roguelikes while introducing a delightful lock & key twist reminiscent of iconic Zelda puzzles.

As you begin your quest for the coveted Amulet of Yendor, Hello Rogue draws you in with its charming lo-fi graphics, intuitive controls, and fast-paced action that’s perfect for both quick sessions and deeper runs. Each dungeon is a compact labyrinth, packed with cleverly placed keys, doors, and secrets waiting to be revealed. Every run is a fresh puzzle—no two journeys are alike, thanks to procedurally-generated maps that keep you guessing and strategizing.

Unlocking doors becomes more than a simple mechanic—each choice feels meaningful. Do you risk venturing into enemy territory for a key, or conserve resources for trickier foes ahead? Inventory management is seamless, allowing you to quickly swap items and weapons with a tap of the 'I' key. The accessible difficulty means new players can enjoy the thrill of roguelike exploration without frustration, while seasoned dungeon-crawlers will appreciate the subtle layers of strategy hiding beneath the surface.

Ambient chiptunes set a moody pace as you dodge traps, outmaneuver quirky enemies, and scour every corner for precious loot. Message logs and contextual hints ensure you’re never lost, gently guiding you through the adventure even if it’s your first roguelike. Whether you’re chasing high scores, speedrunning, or just exploring every nook and cranny, Hello Rogue offers an irresistibly replayable experience, all from your browser—no downloads or mobile compatibility required.

Will you outsmart the dungeon and claim the Amulet of Yendor? Discover endless micro-adventures, surprise yourself with every run, and lose yourself in the beloved challenge of Hello Rogue. Ready your wits and leap into action—play free online now!

How to Play

Getting started in Hello Rogue is fast and intuitive, with controls optimized for smooth browser play. Use your keyboard to maneuver through mysterious, procedurally-generated dungeons. Your main controls are: '?' for command/help, 'A' to take action (open doors, attack, search), 'I' for inventory, 'M' for message logs, ENTER or SPACE to confirm selections, and 'Q' to abort or quit. Move strategically—highlight menu items and tap '?' for extra info on items or abilities under Actions or Inventory.

Explore carefully—every room may hide keys, treasure, or cunning enemies. The lock & key mechanic means you'll often need to backtrack or plan routes around obstacles. Keep an eye on your inventory and pick up keys whenever you find them, as they're the pass to deeper levels and greater loot. Read the logs (press 'M') for hints or to catch missed details. Use the 'A' key to interact with objects, fight adversaries, or trigger special events.

As the difficulty is accessible, embrace experimentation. Try different item combinations, and don't be afraid to risk exploring unfamiliar territory. If a run goes awry, use 'Q' to gracefully quit and restart—progress is quick, and each attempt brings new surprises. The charm of Hello Rogue is in its replayability; every playthrough brings fresh challenges and familiar satisfaction.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Always search every room—hidden keys can save your run.
Check inventory items with '?' to uncover unique effects or uses.
Keep an eye out for message log hints; they often reveal secret interactions.
Plan your route to minimize backtracking and avoid unnecessary encounters.
Use doors and obstacles to outmaneuver tougher enemies.
Don’t hoard keys—unlocking areas early can yield better rewards.
Experiment with different action combinations for surprising results.

Game Features

Pick-up-and-play browser experience—no download required
Easy-access controls perfect for both new and veteran players
Randomly generated dungeons for endless replayability
Classic lock & key mechanics inspired by Zelda
Charming lo-fi pixel art reminiscent of Bitsy and retro games
Inventory and message log system for deeper engagement
Optimized for desktop, delivering smooth gameplay without mobile distractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hello Rogue really free to play?

Yes! Hello Rogue is completely free to play in your browser—with no sign-ups, downloads, or paywalls. Simply launch on itch.io and start adventuring instantly.

Can I save my progress or continue a previous run?

Hello Rogue is designed for quick, replayable runs and does not feature a save system. Each session is a new adventure, encouraging experimentation and replayability.

What do I do if I'm stuck in a dungeon or can’t find a key?

Explore thoroughly—keys and clues may be hidden or require defeating certain enemies. Use the message log for hints, and if you need to restart, simply press 'Q' and begin a fresh run.

Is Hello Rogue mobile compatible?

No, Hello Rogue is optimized for desktop browsers and does not support mobile play. For the best experience, launch the game on your computer.

What are the inspirations behind Hello Rogue’s design?

Hello Rogue draws inspiration from classic roguelikes, 7DRL and Bitsy jam games, and Zelda’s iconic lock & key mechanics, blending retro aesthetics with modern indie sensibilities.