Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Current Players: 5263
Developers: Motion Twin
Publishers: Motion Twin
Release Date: Aug 6, 2018
Price (USD): $12.49
Fluid combat
Replayability
Pixel art
Weapon variety
Soundtrack
Weapon variety
Difficulty curve
Replayability
DLC integration
Repetitive early levels
Difficult bosses
Slow meta progression
Overall, players find Dead Cells to be a captivating and addictive roguelike with fluid combat and an impressive array of options. The game is lauded for its beautiful pixel graphics and engaging soundtrack, which contribute to its immersive experience. However, some players find the difficulty can be too punishing at times, and have issues with the DLC integration feeling like a necessary extension rather than an optional addition. Despite these concerns, the game remains a standout in its genre, with most players highly recommending it for those who enjoy challenging and rewarding gameplay.

Positive Points

  • Dead Cells is praised for its endless replayability due to procedural generation of levels and a wide variety of weapons and build options, allowing for unique and fresh playthroughs each time.
  • The game's fast-paced and fluid combat is highly regarded, offering satisfaction and challenge, with controls and mechanics that feel incredibly responsive.
  • The pixel art graphics and atmospheric soundtrack receive acclaim, adding to the engaging and immersive experience.
  • Players appreciate the challenging but rewarding nature of the game, where mastering combat mechanics and different playstyles or builds brings satisfaction and a sense of achievement.
  • The game is celebrated for its depth and customization options in terms of weapons, skills, and combat tactics.
  • Negative Points

  • Some players noted a sense of repetitiveness or grinding, especially after multiple runs, due to the randomization not being sufficient enough to keep the early levels fresh.
  • Critics mentioned that the game can become frustratingly difficult, especially when certain enemies or bosses feel overpowered or when deaths occur due to perceived unfair mechanics.
  • Several players were disappointed by certain DLC content feeling too integrated into the main game, making the base game feel incomplete without purchasing additional content.
  • The meta progression system is seen as slow or unfulfilling for some, particularly with the perceived imbalance in upgrade systems and the lack of impactful rewards.
  • Mixed Points

  • Weapon variety receives mixed feedback – some players love the diversity and the ability to discover new combinations, while others feel certain weapons lack distinctiveness from one another.
  • The difficulty curve is divisive, with some players enjoying the challenge and others finding it a barrier to enjoyment.
  • Replayability, while generally praised, is occasionally seen as leading to a cycle of monotony for some players.
  • Common Themes

  • Dead Cells blends roguelike mechanisms with metroidvania elements for a unique gaming experience.
  • The game's design encourages a 'learn from failure' approach, with each death offering players insights into tactics and combat improvements.
  • DLC content is frequently discussed, both in terms of its quality and how its presence impacts the overall experience of the base game.
  • The action-heavy gameplay and engaging combat system are central to the game's appeal.
  • Updated 5/17/2025, 12:02:31 AM UTC