PixelJunk Monsters

PixelJunk Monsters is a tower defense strategy game with a tiki island theme. Players control the character Tikiman and move him around a single screen area to transform trees into defensive towers that attack automatically and to collect coins and gems. Coins are used to buy new towers, and gems are used to upgrade the towers for four different categories: damage, range, blast radius, and fire rate. Various monsters appear and move towards his flock at a central building. To complete level a set number of waves need to be held back. Contrary to similar games, actions can only be undertaken when Tikiman is at that location, so he needs to be moved around by the player. He cannot attack himself, but when he runs into an enemy some collected coins are spread around as he respawns.

Just as gems may be used to purchase upgrades to towers, they may also, on occasion be used to purchase entirely new styles of towers for use. The Tikiman needs only take a moment to visit his home to get the new towers. Some towers attack only ground forces, some attack only air, and some work equally on both. Towers are again broken into two forms, physical or magical. Besides purchasing tower upgrades, towers may also be upgraded through combat experience. Tower effectiveness and experience is improved during moments when the Tikiman stands in front of a tower and dances, and the dancing is automatic when positioned on a tower. There are nine types of towers with a tenth one unlocked after beating a certain stage. At the start of the game usually only a small amount is available and additional ones are acquired by saving up gems and then unlocking them at the central building. Tikiman also earns upgrades by completing levels, such as the ability to run or plant mines.

The game features 21 different stages set on Tiki Island for single and offline multiplayer co-op modes for up to two players. Players are rewarded with a rainbow for completing levels without losing a single unit from the flock and a certain amount is needed to eventually access all levels.