In Big Band Survivors everything adapts dynamically to the music so you can slay aliens to the beat, but the music also changes depending on choices you make in game. Combined with the roguelite format it means that each run is not only unique mechanically, but also unique in its soundscape, allowing for twofold player expression in every choice made. Thematically, you play as a human musician battling hordes of strange aliens in various arenas, designed by the alien orchestrators as a gladiatorial spectator sport.

In a run you will find yourself fighting the aliens to collect experience in order to level up your character. Doing so will let you pick new instruments for your ensemble or upgrade the ones you already have which both gives you new or better attacks but also affects the music being played. Keep an eye out for care packages sent by adoring fans as they can give you just what you need in a given moment, but be careful to stay clear of their landing zone. Additionally you will be rewarded with a relic each time you defeat one of the game’s bosses, which grant strong and often synergistic new abilities to the player character.

After each run, win or lose, you will be awarded with roses from the fans depending on your performance. These roses can be spent between runs on powerful upgrades that will help you survive longer on future attempts. There are also plenty of achievements with a variety of exciting rewards for you to try and get.