Gameplay Codex #1: Pick a Card

What is it

The "Pick a Card" mechanic is simple: players are presented with a few upgrade options in the form of cards, usually selected randomly from a pool of available ones, and they pick one.

In roguelikes, this mechanic adds replay value because no two runs feel the same, and your choices can significantly impact your strategy. It’s a nice mix of planning and luck, which makes it so enjoyable.

Games with this mechanic

• Slay the Spire – after each battle, you choose one of three cards to add to your deck, allowing you to shape your strategy as you go.

• Hades – At the end of each room, you pick a "boon" from the gods, which gives you new abilities and changes how you play.

• Halls of Torment – After leveling up, you get to choose from a set of random upgrades to improve your character’s stats or abilities.
• The Last Stand: Aftermath – As the disease progress, you're offered to pick one of the mutations, letting you adapt your character for the inevitable doom of each survivor.