Shovel Knight

 3DS
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 302 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 247 out of 302
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 302
  3. Negative: 35 out of 302
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  1. inzolence
    Jan 17, 2015
    2
    I've now completed the game and have to lower my score for this game from 3/10 to 2/10.

    Some, but not all, of the problems with this game are: 1. Trial and Error is the only way to beat some of the later levels. 2. Clunky controlls, especially for selecting spells on the fly. 3. All bosses can be killed with the same strategy. 4. It doesn't matter if you are a good or bad player,    I've now completed the game and have to lower my score for this game from 3/10 to 2/10.

    Some, but not all, of the problems with this game are:
    1. Trial and Error is the only way to beat some of the later levels.
    2. Clunky controlls, especially for selecting spells on the fly.
    3. All bosses can be killed with the same strategy.
    4. It doesn't matter if you are a good or bad player, having good mechanical skill will only hinder you.
    5. Only 4 of the spells are useful.
    6. Only 1 of the armors are useful.
    7. Only 2 of the unlockable Abilities/Attacks are useful.
    8. The bosses are the easiest part of the game because of the horrible level design.

    Pros:
    1. It has a nice story, but it's predictable and short.

    Conclusion:
    Would not recommend.    … Expand
  2. TheLinkgirl
    Sep 25, 2022
    3
    Aside from the extremely catchy music, Shovel Knight isn't a very enjoyable experience. The level design is unimpressive, the gameplay is tiresome, and the game is extremely easy in my opinion. Compared to games like the classic Mega Man games, Shovel Knight just feels lacking in almost every area, except for the music which is genuinely great.

Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best 3DS Game of 2014
9
#9 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2014
5
#5 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. Level7.nu
    Dec 4, 2014
    80
    The portable version Shovel Knight is in any ways as good as the others, even better as the both the graphics and the mechanics works perfect on a small screen. On the negavition side there are some badly designed levels and to many trial and error moments, but for the most part Shovel Knight is a good reminder that games were a bit more rewarding back in the days.
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  2. SpazioGames
    Nov 24, 2014
    85
    Shovel Knight is a little gem of an indie game, perfectly suited for short bursts of play and extremely enjoyable for both the veterans (who will shed joy tears) and the newcomers looking for a challenge on their 3DS.
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  3. XGN
    Nov 14, 2014
    90
    Shovel Knight is the ultimate retro game. It takes all the good parts of old classics and improves on it with current technology. Truly a joy to play.
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