Gladihoppers is a unique 2D gladiator game featuring ragdoll physics. The combat in the Roman arena are both hilarious and tactical. The game is not about serious simulation approach, but rather signature hopscotch motions, unpredictable assaults and a huge variety of equipment to build an invincible warrior.
In Career Mode you begin as a new gladiator and gradually conquer arenas around the ancient globe. Every victory will give you coins, equipment and skill points to make your character better. From little bouts in Ludus, to famous stadiums like the Coliseum.
One of the most remarkable characteristics of Gladihoppers is the “Secret Names” system. You can get unusual items not generally available in Career Mode by using particular phrases when naming your character.
The character is controlled by simple movement and attack buttons only. But the distance is a direct cause of injury. The longer the run the stronger and faster the strike. You can move between low and high attack postures to hit weak defence areas of your opponent. This is particularly vital when fighting against opponents that have substantial armour on some body regions.
Willpower helps recover more health after each battle and Looting helps acquire more gold. It’s often better to invest in stats early on rather than changing your gear all the time.
Spy is very useful tool. You can also loot shields, weapons and precious goods from enemies before you enter battle, saving a tonne of gold early on.
In addition to Career Mode, Gladihoppers has Spartacus War. Here, players command a full army, not just a single gladiator. Massive fights between Roman army, barbarian tribes and rebel groups provide a totally new flavour from the usual one on one duels. There are also various types of weapons such as swords, spears, axes, shields and armour, so each gladiator might have different combat styles.
Gladihoppers takes the historical concept of gladiatorial battle and makes it enjoyable, yet strategically deep fights. With a deep upgrade system, lots of mysteries to unearth and chaotic physics-based battles, it's a compelling pick for fans of old arena-style games.
