Serious Sam returns as a roguelite multiplayer shooter

The next entry in the Serious Sam franchise is taking quite a turn, as it has just been announced that Serious Sam: Shatterverse will introduce a run-based roguelite multiplayer shooter to the series family later this year.

Unlike previous series entries that zeroed in on massive single-player battles and hordes of enemies, Shatterverse focuses on a cooperative multiplayer experience. The game accommodates up to five players, each playing as a different iteration of Sam.

The core gameplay is built around run-based progression, a structure commonly seen in roguelite games. Players will go through repeated runs across constantly changing environments, gaining upgrades and abilities along the way. Each run is designed to feel different, encouraging replayability and experimentation with builds and playstyles.

This marks a noticeable shift for the series. Traditionally, Serious Sam has been known for its simple but chaotic formula—large open arenas, massive enemy hordes, and a focus on fast-paced shooting. The new direction keeps that action-heavy identity but adapts it into a more modern structure focused on cooperative play and progression systems.

The game also introduces a multiverse concept, allowing different versions of Sam to exist at the same time. This not only explains the multiplayer setup but also opens the door for varied abilities, weapons, and gameplay styles between characters.

While this kind of transformation can be risky, it reflects a broader trend in the FPS genre, where developers are experimenting with roguelite elements and replay-driven design. If done right, Shatterverse could offer a fresh take on the classic formula while still keeping the chaotic energy the series is known for.

Overall, Serious Sam: Shatterverse is shaping up to be one of the more unusual entries in the franchise, combining familiar action with a completely new structure that focuses on replayability, teamwork, and constant progression.