Cuphead
Action
Indie
Single-player
Multi-player
Co-op
Shared/Split Screen Co-op
Shared/Split Screen
Steam Achievements
Full controller support
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Cloud
Remote Play on Phone
Remote Play on Tablet
Remote Play on TV
Remote Play Together
Family Sharing

Cuphead is a classic run and gun action game heavily focused on boss battles. Inspired by cartoons of the 1930s, the visuals and audio are painstakingly created with the same techniques of the era, i.e. traditional hand drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings.

Developers: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Publishers: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Release Date: Sep 29, 2017
Price (USD): $19.99
Current Players: 3.3k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Overwhelmingly Positive(96%)
art style
soundtrack
boss fights
controls
co-op mode
difficulty
co-op play
DLC
challenge
satisfaction
high difficulty
frustration
Dr. Kahl's Robot
plane levels
imbalanced
Overall, the reviews for the game highlight it as both a visual masterpiece and a challenging experience that requires patience and resilience. The difficulty is a point of divergence, with some players finding it to be a rewarding challenge while others feel it can verge on frustration. The stunning hand-drawn art and addictive gameplay are consistently praised, although a few players express concerns over specific levels and boss fights that might feel overly difficult or challenging in co-op mode. Despite its high difficulty, the game continues to be recommended for its unique aesthetic and rich, rewarding gameplay.

Positive Points

  • The game features a stunning 1930s cartoon-inspired art style that is beautifully hand-drawn.
  • It provides engaging and tightly designed boss fights with unique mechanics that are challenging but rewarding when mastered.
  • The soundtrack and audio design are praised for enhancing the game's atmosphere with fitting jazz and big band compositions.
  • Controls are responsive and well-suited for the fast-paced, precise gameplay required to succeed.
  • It encourages cooperative play, adding another layer of fun and complexity when playing in co-op mode.
  • Negative Points

  • The game has a very high difficulty level, which may deter some players who are not used to such challenges.
  • Some users report frustration due to the game's steep learning curve and the frequent trial and error required to progress.
  • Certain levels and bosses, like Dr. Kahl's Robot and run-and-gun stages, receive specific criticism for being less enjoyable or overly difficult.
  • Some players find aspects like the plane mechanics or certain weapon and charm imbalances detract from the overall experience.
  • Mixed Points

  • The difficulty is both a draw and a concern, with different players appreciating and criticizing it respectively.
  • Co-op play increases the appeal but can also add to the difficulty due to coordination necessary between players.
  • The DLC is both praised for adding new content and lightly criticized for not altering the gameplay significantly.
  • Common Themes

  • The game's difficulty is a recurring theme, with many reviews highlighting it as a major factor in both recommending and cautioning others about it.
  • The art style consistently receives unanimous praise, regarded as a standout feature that contributes to its lasting appeal.
  • Players enjoy the challenge and satisfaction achieved from defeating difficult bosses, despite the frustration sometimes experienced along the way.
  • There is a shared appreciation for the game's music and overall aesthetic, which enhances its replay value.
  • Updated 6/6/2026, 12:02:04 AM UTC