Written by Lunar_95

Dead Cells (released August 7, 2018) is a game set in a dark and immersive world that blends both aspects of a dungeon crawler with Metroidvania exploration. The game unfolds in a procedurally generated island fortress meaning all your choices affect your run. The world is rich in detail with eerie atmospheric landscapes that range from dark abandoned cells to vibrant overgrown swamps. This ever changing environment keeps players engaged as each playthrough offers a new combination of enemies, traps, and hidden areas to discover.

In the game you play as the Prisoner a reanimated being struggling to escape from a mysterious and dangerous island. Your goal is to navigate through various levels battling a wide range of enemies and overcoming obstacles. The reason for your escape is shrouded in mystery, and as you progress you
uncover fragments of the island's dark past and the nature of your own existence. The story is shown to the player through environmental storytelling and subtle hints rather than direct narrative allowing players to piece together the plot as they explore.

The combat system is fast-paced and fluid combat; it also provides exploration that sets it apart from other games in the genre. Players explore procedurally-generated levels each filled with challenging enemies, traps, and environmental hazards and obstacles. The combat system emphasizes skill and precision with a variety of weapons ranging from swords to bows and abilities that can be customized to fit different playstyles. The game’s focus on smooth controls and strategic gameplay creates a rewarding experience where player skill directly influences success. A unique feature of Dead Cells is its roguelike structure where each death is a learning opportunity and each run is a chance to discover new strategies and upgrades.

The progression system in Dead Cells is notable for its blend of permanent and temporary upgrades. As players progress, they will unlock various abilities, weapons, and enhancements that carry over between runs. This ensures that while each run is challenging and starts from scratch, players gradually build up their character's power and capabilities. the game also features a distinct visual style with pixel art that’s both detailed and atmospheric contributing to its unique charm. The combination of procedural generation and a variety of build options keeps the gameplay fresh and replayable offering a new experience each playthrough.

I give Dead Cells an above average on our five-tiered scale (Bad, Below Average, Average, Above Average, Excellent). The game’s fast-paced combat, wide range of playstyles, varied environments, and replayablity make it a fun experience for all players.