Slay The Spire 2 has been out for three months, and if you are anything like me, you have already spent nearly 300 hours climbing the tower. While Mega Crit’s consistent balance patches keep the game feeling fresh, it is natural to look for something else to play when you finally need a break. If you are looking for the best deckbuilding roguelikes to bridge the gap, here are nine titles that deserve your attention.
Rune Dice
Released on May 19, 2026, by Smart Raven Studio, this title swaps cards for dice. You build a deck of dice and shoot them at each other to dish out damage. While the core mechanic is unique, the roguelike map progression will feel familiar to any Slay The Spire veteran.
Black Jacket
Launched on May 12, 2026, by Mi’pu’mi Games, this is a blackjack-based deckbuilder. It shares more DNA with Inscryption or Balatro than traditional roguelikes, but it is worth playing for its well-written, engaging narrative.
Griftlands
Klei Entertainment’s Griftlands is a tightly paced, 30-hour experience where even your conversations are resolved through card battles. It is less mentally taxing than other deckbuilders, making it a perfect, replayable palate cleanser.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Despite being a commercial failure, this Firaxis title is a unique blend of XCOM-style tactics and card-based combat. It lacks roguelike elements, but its light RPG morality and dialogue systems offer an experience you won't find elsewhere in the genre.
9 Kings
This title from Sad Socket blends deckbuilding with real-time strategy and autobattler mechanics. It is designed to be accessible, often encouraging you to build "busted" decks. It recently received a multiplayer update and is currently available in early access.
Fights In Tight Spaces
This game stands out for its crisp, punchy animations and a combat system that emphasizes positioning, similar to Into the Breach. It has received multiple DLC expansions over the last four years, keeping it relevant for repeat players.
Chrono Ark
If you want a challenge, Chrono Ark features a steep learning curve and zero hand-holding. It combines deckbuilding with 2D JRPG-inspired visuals and a moody story, resulting in a deep, addictive experience that rewards patience.
Across the Obelisk
For those who want to manage their own team, Across the Obelisk lets you control multiple decks simultaneously. It is arguably the closest experience to Slay The Spire 2 on this list. At $20 for the base game, it offers plenty of content even without the extensive DLC library.
Inscryption
While often grouped with the biggest names in the genre, Inscryption is the polar opposite of Slay The Spire 2. It is a morbid, story-driven experience where progression centers on buffing specific cards. It is a must-play for anyone who wants a definitive, high-quality conclusion to their roguelike journey.