Downwell
Rating Summary
Based on 43 critic reviews
OpenCritic Rating
Top Critic Average
Critics Recommend
Top Critic
Don't let appearances deceive you - Downwell's retro chic aesthetic is the wrapper for an incredibly deep, satisfying game.
Top Critic
The action is entertaining, but the incentive to complete run after run isn't there
Top Critic
Challenging, accessible and engaging. Downwell is a focused action-platformer done well.
Top Critic
A weird hybrid of downward-scrolling shoot 'em up and platformer, Downwell is a challenging, but highly addictive arcade game that's a great test of your concentration and reflexes. Its gameplay does lack variety, but when played in short bursts, it's a lot of fun.
Top Critic
These are the kind of things you learn as you delve deeper and deeper into Downwell's four worlds (three levels each) and they are presented intelligently. For example, the first spat of blood red enemies that you shouldn't be jumping on all have spikes, video game shorthand for danger. Later ones won't warn you so nicely. And of course there's trial and error, too, like touching a hot stove, for those who don't get it.
Top Critic
Please do yourself a favor and buy now Downwell, on PC or on iOs, wherever it suits you. This masterpiece has a thing that most of modern AAA games lack: pure fun. A wonderful shoot'em up and a love letter to the genre.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Top Critic
Downwell truly feels like a classic NES game both in aesthetics and in difficulty, which paired with incredibly addictive gameplay makes the under $5 Downwell at least worth giving a try.
Top Critic
That I love the game even with a Virtual Boy palette is testament to how lovely it is. Very lovely. And very smart.
Top Critic
It takes a damn good game to stop me from pooping, and Downwell had me in its thrall as I desperately needed that crap. Desperately.
Top Critic
Simple, sweet, and oh so stylish, Downwell is a perfect fit on the Switch. With its easy-to-learn controls, steep but fair difficulty, and some great looking pixel art, this is a must have for anybody wanting a little challenge on their handheld hybrid.
