Windblown is a fast-paced action roguelite that stands out for its fluid combat, minimalist design, and focus on precise movement and timing. Developed by Motion Twin and Evil Empire, the same creators behind Dead Cells, the game puts players in control of agile characters fighting through ever-changing levels filled with challenging enemies. One of the questions that often comes up among new players is whether you can change characters in Windblown. With character variety being a central mechanic in many roguelite titles, it’s natural for players to seek flexibility in playstyles. Let’s take a closer look at how character selection and switching works in Windblown and how it affects the overall gameplay experience.
Understanding Character Selection in Windblown
Initial Character Setup
When players first dive into Windblown, they begin with a default character known as a Shell. Each Shell represents a different playstyle and set of abilities, offering unique movement patterns, attack styles, and special powers. These differences allow players to experiment and find the one that best suits their approach to combat and traversal.
Each Shell is more than just a cosmetic change; they fundamentally alter the way the game is played. Some are better suited for aggressive close-range attacks, while others excel in ranged combat or mobility. Choosing the right character can influence how successful your run will be.
Are Characters Changeable Mid-Run?
As of the current state of the game, players cannot switch characters in the middle of a single run. Once a run begins, the chosen Shell remains fixed until the character dies or completes the run. This decision encourages players to commit to a playstyle and master the strengths and weaknesses of their chosen Shell. It also adds an element of risk and planning before each attempt.
Switching Characters Between Runs
While you can’t change characters during a run, Windblown does allow you to switch Shells between runs. After completing a run or dying, players return to the central hub area, where they can choose a different Shell to use for their next attempt. This mechanic allows for flexibility and encourages experimentation with different styles of combat and movement.
Unlocking New Characters in Windblown
How to Unlock Additional Shells
Initially, only one or two Shells may be available. As players progress through the game, complete challenges, or reach specific milestones, additional Shells become unlockable. Each new Shell adds a different strategic layer to gameplay and opens up new possibilities for builds and tactics.
- Progression-based unlocks: Reaching certain zones or defeating bosses may unlock new characters.
- Currency unlocks: Some Shells can be purchased or crafted using in-game resources gathered during runs.
- Challenge unlocks: Completing unique objectives or mastering specific aspects of a character’s skill set may grant access to a new Shell.
This approach rewards consistent play and encourages players to engage deeply with the mechanics rather than relying on a single strategy.
Benefits of Unlocking All Characters
Unlocking multiple Shells not only offers more variety but also improves replay value. Each Shell introduces new strategies and synergy with the game’s upgrade and weapon systems. Some Shells might be more effective against certain bosses or in specific biomes. Learning how to use each character effectively can dramatically improve your odds of progression.
Gameplay Impact of Character Choice
How Shells Affect Combat
Different characters in Windblown impact more than just base stats. They affect how fast you move, how you dodge attacks, what kinds of weapons you can effectively wield, and how you interact with the environment. A Shell that specializes in fast, fluid strikes will require a very different approach from one that relies on heavy, deliberate attacks.
These differences mean that players often have to adjust their strategies, not just their loadouts. For example, a player who is used to aggressive melee combat might struggle when switching to a Shell focused on range and evasion unless they adapt their timing and approach.
Adaptability and Challenge
Because each Shell has a distinct identity, learning to adapt to different characters becomes a major component of player skill. This adds depth to the roguelite formula, as players are not only challenged by procedurally generated levels and random upgrades, but also by mastering different characters over time.
Character-Specific Upgrades and Abilities
Unique Skill Trees
In Windblown, some Shells have access to exclusive skills or upgrades that align with their strengths. These are often found during runs in the form of modular upgrades, and they can drastically affect performance. For example, a Shell that favors aerial combat might have access to jump-based enhancements, while a defense-heavy Shell could gain abilities to mitigate incoming damage.
Weapon Synergies
Weapons in Windblown are designed to synergize differently depending on the Shell being used. Some Shells gain bonus effects when using specific weapon types, such as increased combo speed or elemental effects. Selecting weapons that align well with your Shell is crucial for maximizing damage and survivability.
Future Possibilities for Character Switching
Potential Updates
Given that Windblown is still in active development, it’s possible that future updates could introduce new mechanics related to character switching. Developers may decide to add mid-run character change options, tag-team systems, or Shell swapping at specific checkpoints. However, for now, the game remains focused on making each run a dedicated experience with a single Shell.
Community Feedback
The community around Windblown has shown interest in expanded character mechanics. Suggestions like being able to unlock a swap relic that allows changing Shells once per run or having dynamic character shifts tied to environmental events have been discussed. Whether such features will be implemented remains to be seen, but the developers have been responsive to feedback in the past.
Tips for Choosing the Best Character
Know Your Playstyle
Before choosing a Shell, consider your personal preferences:
- If you like quick, agile combat, pick a Shell with speed and combo potential.
- If you prefer heavy hits and tanky defense, select a Shell with more durability and burst damage.
- For players who love range or unique utility abilities, experiment with Shells that offer unconventional strategies.
Experiment Often
Don’t be afraid to lose runs while experimenting with new characters. The best way to learn is through trial and error. Each Shell has a learning curve, and mastering its nuances takes time. By trying out different options, you’ll better understand the mechanics and develop a well-rounded skill set.
In Windblown, changing characters or Shells is an essential part of long-term progression, but it’s limited to the space between runs rather than during them. This design choice reinforces the importance of committing to a strategy and mastering each Shell individually. While players cannot switch characters mid-run, the flexibility to select a different Shell before each attempt provides plenty of room for variety and personalization. As new content is added and the meta evolves, experimenting with different characters remains one of the most enjoyable aspects of the game.