Dead Cells Reviews
Dead Cells takes the best gameplay elements from Metroidvania and rogue-lite games and combines them into something that sinks its hooks into you and won't let go.
At first glance, Dead Cells might seem like another overhyped Metroidvania-style platformer trying to break into the stuffed platformer genre, but it's actually worthy of all its praise. Motion Twin's impeccable implementation of roguelike elements into a classic 2D exploration game is the key ingredient that makes it all work, and the impressive controls don't hurt either. The enemy variety and story might not be groundbreaking, but the positives eclipse any of the game's small negative aspects. Dead Cells is a standout in the genre.
Dead Cells may not shift the genre's trajectory or implement roguelike mechanics in any new or inventive way, but it remains a consistently exciting and thrilling experience, even when you've seen that rapier for the fourth or fifth time. It's one of those games that's a joy to play, but even more importantly, a joy to watch because it teaches you the fundamental truth about roguelikes (and maybe life as a whole): let go. Once you learn to let go—or in Dead Cells's case, once you learn to let go of life—you'll find that it's about the experience of the moment, about that run right now. It's kind of like Bukowski's epitaph: If you don't try as hard, you'll enjoy Dead Cells much more. Because its in this nonchalance that the game's systems, however trite, slowly mend together in what can only be described as the perfect run. Before you forgot to dodge.
Dead Cells is a masterclass in excellent roguelike design, mixing together nonstop intense action sequences, gorgeous vistas, and an addictive loop of unlocks and rewards into a beautiful experience that no Switch owner will want to go without.
Motion Twin's Dead Cells is a game designed for those who don't particularly like roguelikes.
Dead Cells is likely the defining point of the Roguelike genre, thanks to refined combat and clever blending of genres. Whether you are looking for a quick pick-up game or are wanting to get lost in a multi-hour gameplay loop, very few games can master their own genre so well as Dead Cells manages to do. Fan of Roguelikes or not, this is a game that shouldn't pass you by in 2018.
An awesome combat system that doesn't achieve it's full potential thanks to procedural generated levels.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Dead Cells is an incredible mix of well designed elements. The compelling die, upgrade, improve loop is complemented by a risk and reward Metroidvania-inspired level design, and each run is made to feel fresh with different layouts and varied weapons, but it's the excellent combat and traversal that stand out.
Successful genre mix that runs out of steam at the target level due to repetitions.
Review in German | Read full review
Dead Cells is the perfect representation of a genre that once seemed dead but has come roaring back to life. A Metroidvania-style rogue-life game, Dead Cells boasts excellent mechanics and punishing difficulty that forces you to "git gud." It's admittedly on the short side and can be repetitive after a while. A sturdy foundation based on solid core mechanics, however, make this one fun romp that bears repeating.
Dead Cells is a unique work that combines metroidvania and roguelike elements, and while that may sound paradoxical at first, Dead Cells found a way to make it work, even if it's not perfect. Thanks to its gameplay cycles, it will be possible to build up a sizeable arsenal while repeating procedurally generated levels with plenty of enjoyment and the game's fluid and fun combat system make this an involving and very entertaining experience.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Addictive, punitive as never before and very fast, Dead Cells is a title that mixes two kinds of poles apart, but it does so by building foundations that are difficult to demolish.
A layer of masterful polish make the never-ending loop of Dead Cell's gameplay a joy to behold.
‘Dead Cells' is a chaotic, punishing, and rewarding indie game that cannot be missed.
Dead Cells is one of those games that you can't miss. Among the best titles of its genre. A true gem.
If you like roguelike or Metroidvania games, you'll love Dead Cells. It's unforgiving at times, but the experience remains constantly rewarding and enjoyable.
Motion Twin's Dead Cells is a challenging and rewarding mash-up of two classic video game genres.
And as painful as the end of a run can be, “Dead Cells’” steady introduction of new mechanics made it easy for me to pine for one more go. In my view, that’s the hallmark of a successful arcade experience.
Unapologetically tough, brilliantly slick and well put together, Dead Cells is a roguelike platformer that will put you to the test. And you'll probably end up enjoying (almost) every minute of it.
If you’re looking for an easy version of Enter the Gungeon or a game where you have to plan every encounter, you’ll love Dead Cells. However, if you want an experience where you absolutely have to make the most of what RNG gives you, it might not be for you.