Dust: An Elysian Tail

 PC
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 538 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 440 out of 538
  2. Mixed: 67 out of 538
  3. Negative: 31 out of 538

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  1. JoeRosa
    May 25, 2013
    10
    The developer built the game from the ground up on pc then ported it to xbox. He then added pc settings and such. This is a solid game and has everything you could ever want from a Metroid/Vania type game.

    The combat is fast and fluid. Character stat customization. Amazing art style and graphics. Glorious music. Crafting. Exploration and adventure. You grow attached to the npcs    The developer built the game from the ground up on pc then ported it to xbox. He then added pc settings and such. This is a solid game and has everything you could ever want from a Metroid/Vania type game.

    The combat is fast and fluid.
    Character stat customization.
    Amazing art style and graphics.
    Glorious music.
    Crafting.
    Exploration and adventure.
    You grow attached to the npcs and care about what their issues are and what happens next.    … Expand
  2. BinarySplit
    May 27, 2013
    10
    Beautiful side-scrolling action game. Has fantastic animated dialog, interesting characters and AMAZING gameplay. My only complaint is that the ending is a bit weak and there's no New Game+ to help you get 100%. At $13, this is definitely worth it.
  3. sanchokobe
    Jul 26, 2013
    10
    A fantastic game. Beautiful hand-drawn and hand-animated art, memorable characters, engaging and emotional story, brilliant atmospheric soundtrack, and the gameplay hits that sweet spot of "easy to pick up, difficult to master".

    What is truly amazing about this game, however, is the story of its development. With the exception of the music composed by Hyperduck Soundworks, everything    A fantastic game. Beautiful hand-drawn and hand-animated art, memorable characters, engaging and emotional story, brilliant atmospheric soundtrack, and the gameplay hits that sweet spot of "easy to pick up, difficult to master".

    What is truly amazing about this game, however, is the story of its development. With the exception of the music composed by Hyperduck Soundworks, everything else in this game (design, art, story, programming, EVERYTHING) was done by one person working unassisted. And this one person went into this with zero knowledge of game design and programming. He taught himself everything as he went along. The fact that he was able to start from nothing and produce a game of such impeccable quality...it is a tremendous achievement, and truly inspiring. The game deserves a playthrough based on that fact alone.    … Expand
  4. MyOnlyAlias
    Jun 16, 2013
    10
    This game is fantastic on PC. The port if phenomenal, with almost every port feature accounted for. V sync, individual sound controls, graphics settings, resolution, and even an option to toggle higher quality art assets. The story and gameplay are top notch. This is a must own for everyone.
  5. Sinfullysweet
    Jun 13, 2013
    10
    THIS IS A MUST HAVE! The story line, the play style, everything was awesome about it. When the ending makes you actually tear up, that means that the game did it's job. You care about all the characters. I played it on the casual setting, with my laptop/gaming pc hooked up to my television using the full controller support. Flawless execution. Definitely worth the time and money. So manyTHIS IS A MUST HAVE! The story line, the play style, everything was awesome about it. When the ending makes you actually tear up, that means that the game did it's job. You care about all the characters. I played it on the casual setting, with my laptop/gaming pc hooked up to my television using the full controller support. Flawless execution. Definitely worth the time and money. So many throwbacks to other indie developers that it made me smile. So thank you game developers for a game that not only I can play but my kids can play as well, that really brings you into the story! Thank you for sharing your creativity with the rest of us gamers out here. Keep up the great work. And Can I haz real life Fidget doll please? =3… Expand
  6. chad12420
    May 28, 2013
    10
    This game is phenomenal. Polished from start to finish. Great combat, environments, graphics, sound, and a decent story to boot. NO I didn’t make the game, some people are just too childish to admit not all reviews come from some paid scrub that comes on here to boost ratings. This game is awesome, don’t miss it.
  7. SwitSwat
    Sep 24, 2013
    10
    What initially got me interested was the beautiful art graphics. The controls are tight, and they serve well in the simple, yet addicting battle mechanics. The storyline itself is very intriguing and adds more purpose to actual completing the game. The voice acting is pretty good as well. I am simply put, and indie game whore and fanatic, and this was, simply put AMAZING. A must buy. 10/10
  8. Varaosa
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    One of the best ever to play the games! High recommented for everybody! Buy game your self now & your friends too, just super game................. C:
  9. Shadirrasda
    May 28, 2013
    10
    I didn't think i would like this game as I'm not a storyline type of person but the controls of this game are so slick with amazing music that i just can't stop playing!
    It's a very compelling world full of vibrant colors that just pulls you in and makes you actually care about the NPCs you're trying to help without it being quests of "kill 10 boars".
    A very very impressive game    I didn't think i would like this game as I'm not a storyline type of person but the controls of this game are so slick with amazing music that i just can't stop playing!
    It's a very compelling world full of vibrant colors that just pulls you in and makes you actually care about the NPCs you're trying to help without it being quests of "kill 10 boars".
    A very very impressive game considering it was made entirely by one person!
    An absolute must-have title.    … Expand
  10. a_consumer
    Jul 18, 2013
    10
    this is a great game. Its one of the very few that kept giving me goose bumps. Every quest as well as the side quest is a pleasure to complete because of the characters and the interesting things they would say. And well Fidget, she is hard to explain but is a really loveable companion. I've never really gotton any connection to any enemy before but the first boss is one of my top favthis is a great game. Its one of the very few that kept giving me goose bumps. Every quest as well as the side quest is a pleasure to complete because of the characters and the interesting things they would say. And well Fidget, she is hard to explain but is a really loveable companion. I've never really gotton any connection to any enemy before but the first boss is one of my top fav character in the game. It does has some majior glitch at times, i havent noticed on pc except half the screen get cut off in the title for a bit, and for the xbox it does crashes to home screen. just save multiple times for different slots like an elder scrolls game and if you see a power up that your supposed to get that is not there. i'm sorry but new game or reload a save file that doesn't have that problem. so far ive had to new game once. This is really a good game. Better then muramasa in my opinion.… Expand
  11. Max_Killington
    Dec 5, 2013
    10
    What a video game should be: non-stop fluid action plus a bit of loot. If Contra and Super Metriod had a child then raised it in Potos village it would be called Dust: and Elysian Tale.

    Great artwork and direction. Great music.
  12. Mykwon
    Dec 4, 2013
    10
    Beautifully crafted action RPG with very fluid controls, great combos and lovely characters. Very addictive and charming, you get immersed in the game and don't stop playing. A true gem.
  13. insanity82007
    Jun 3, 2014
    10
    This is an absolutely beautiful game crafted from love. It features incredible gameplay, outstanding animation, top notch character introductions and development, brilliant, brilliant music and excellent, convincing voice acting. The RPG elements in the game, while simple compared to many other ARPGs, are very well executed and complemented the game perfectly. About the only minor gripe IThis is an absolutely beautiful game crafted from love. It features incredible gameplay, outstanding animation, top notch character introductions and development, brilliant, brilliant music and excellent, convincing voice acting. The RPG elements in the game, while simple compared to many other ARPGs, are very well executed and complemented the game perfectly. About the only minor gripe I really had was that traveling could have been made easier by being able to choose a specific save location in an area from the world map when revisiting it to find secrets/treasures after learning new skills. Then again, the process of having to go from either the beginning of and area or the end of an area to get to these points enabled me to gather a lot of resources and do a lot of leveling that made me prepared for the difficulty at the end of the game. I would seriously suggest picking it up as this is worth every $$$ spent.… Expand
  14. tjgiannhs8es
    May 30, 2013
    10
    The game is EXCELLENT! The story is great and combat is a lot of fun! However, the best thing in the game is the art. The game is beautiful and the work the developer has done with painting the environment, the enemies and the protagonists is OUTSTANDING! This game must be one of the best looking games I have ever played and the npcs are all voiced which is a nice and impressive touchThe game is EXCELLENT! The story is great and combat is a lot of fun! However, the best thing in the game is the art. The game is beautiful and the work the developer has done with painting the environment, the enemies and the protagonists is OUTSTANDING! This game must be one of the best looking games I have ever played and the npcs are all voiced which is a nice and impressive touch (fidget's voice is the best). I rarely write reviews but I think this game is worth it. I don't think anyone would dislike this game since there isn't anything bad in this game. And the price makes it all the more appealing. I recommend this game by all means and hope we see a new project from the developers as soon as possible ^^… Expand
  15. Rum72
    Feb 18, 2014
    10
    for it's genre it is the best you could play .
  16. Tzeenchist
    Jul 25, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An excellent, sweet, kind, beautiful, game with humor. Makes you wonder about the most important things in life. Visually excellent and made ​​at least sounded great. With its simplicity, can bind to itself on a long time.… Expand
  17. kcanon112
    May 25, 2013
    10
    A great PC port with more options than most AAA titles combined, has great music and game play, and takes place in a beautiful world, it;s very cheap and I believe anyone can enjoy it.
  18. Slizarus
    May 28, 2013
    10
    Honestly, this game is beautiful, the gameplay is extremely fluid combat is very fun and the metroidvania style is really well represented in the level design. The Sidekicks are pretty funny, the Nimbat is hilarious and her often silly behavior is a wonderful choice in contrast to Dust's cool demeanor.

    This game's story is really surprising, you can run through it, jaded, and ignore it    Honestly, this game is beautiful, the gameplay is extremely fluid combat is very fun and the metroidvania style is really well represented in the level design. The Sidekicks are pretty funny, the Nimbat is hilarious and her often silly behavior is a wonderful choice in contrast to Dust's cool demeanor.

    This game's story is really surprising, you can run through it, jaded, and ignore it if you want, the gameplay is fun enough and the personal evolution of your character and his choices by themselves are worth the price of admission, but if you start paying attention you'll uncover a rich plot covering issues like Racism, the Moral Struggle of Absolute Justice vs Acceptance, and little a brother not accepting the guy his older sister likes.

    The story, 30% in, is enough to start some conversations with a friend or gaming significant other :)

    The game will get a full 10 from me because for what it's worth, I can't find a problem with it worth nitpicking, but broken down this would be my score.

    Gameplay 9
    Menus 9
    Replayability 9
    Graphics 10
    Story 10    … Expand
  19. KingVerity
    May 25, 2013
    10
    This game is everything you could want in an action rpg. Dust has an amazing art style with fluid, engaging combat. The music is fantastic and the voice acting is some of the best I've ever heard.

    The story line is really fresh and makes you feel very sympathetic to it's characters. Not often am I impressed by a game this much. I would highly recommend this game. A game this polished,    This game is everything you could want in an action rpg. Dust has an amazing art style with fluid, engaging combat. The music is fantastic and the voice acting is some of the best I've ever heard.

    The story line is really fresh and makes you feel very sympathetic to it's characters. Not often am I impressed by a game this much. I would highly recommend this game. A game this polished, creative and entertaining to not be played would be a crime.    … Expand
  20. Thegunner18
    May 26, 2013
    10
    Please, whatever you do, ignore all the trolls saying this is a bad game without giving any reasoning behind it. I don't know why you'd believe such crap in the first place anyway, but I had to get that out of the way.

    Dust is honestly one of the most enchanting and charming games I've ever played. The fact that all of this (other than the music) was made by one person just makes this    Please, whatever you do, ignore all the trolls saying this is a bad game without giving any reasoning behind it. I don't know why you'd believe such crap in the first place anyway, but I had to get that out of the way.

    Dust is honestly one of the most enchanting and charming games I've ever played. The fact that all of this (other than the music) was made by one person just makes this whole thing even more amazing than it already is. And if you're wondering about the music, then you won't be disappointed. Not by any means whatsoever. All-in-all, this proves to be perhaps *the* most captivating PC experiences I've had. The art, the music, the surprisingly dark story...everything.

    Buy this game!    … Expand
  21. XaoGarrent
    May 31, 2013
    10
    Take a slice of Metroidvania, take a side of Secret of Mana, throw them in a pot with a dash of Devil May Cry style combat (or perhaps an Arcsys fighter, after all dust DOES seem to wield his sword like Sol), and you've got the inspiration behind Dust. This game takes what made the greatest classics of the 16 and 32 bit era what they were and upgrades that formula with modern designTake a slice of Metroidvania, take a side of Secret of Mana, throw them in a pot with a dash of Devil May Cry style combat (or perhaps an Arcsys fighter, after all dust DOES seem to wield his sword like Sol), and you've got the inspiration behind Dust. This game takes what made the greatest classics of the 16 and 32 bit era what they were and upgrades that formula with modern design sensibilities and high definition art. As if the strong features of the actual game itself aren't enough, at a paltry 15 dollars it's an ambitious success that you'd have to be foolish to overlook, even as a budget minded gamer, and make no mistake: This is one very well executed port that feels like it belonged on PC in the first place.

    The story itself reminds us of a time when the fantasy genre in video games wasn't desperately clinging to the coattails of Tolkien or drenched in angst and J Pop style, and the gameplay teaches us the valuable lesson that designs of the past are still relevant and can be improved upon. Bright, whimsical storybook fantasy story and characters that yet manage to be woven seamlessly into a serious and perhaps tragic story are found alongside straightforward and gripping gameplay that does nothing to divert the player from the goals laid out in front of them. In short, Dust makes up a sleek and well assembled package that shows far more polish and planning than you'd expect of a big name let alone indie.

    Like Bastion or perhaps Cave Story, it's a throwback to days long gone, improving upon the strong foundation left behind in such a way that it begs the player to question why such things were ever abandoned to begin with. If this was a game you found yourself watching and waiting for on PC, make no delay in picking it up, it really is a no brainer purchase. It is a game that will suck you in, though, so be warned: You may want to put aside some time for it.    … Expand
  22. Lunate
    Jun 29, 2013
    10
    This game is one of the best 2D RPG's out there,the detail and effort put forth in this game can be clearly seen after barely playing 5 minutes of the game.It's a real joy to play this game and for its price of mere 10 bucks it offers u more than u would expect.The story is really well done,the music is great and the artwork is just stunning,very beautiful worlds and areas make this gameThis game is one of the best 2D RPG's out there,the detail and effort put forth in this game can be clearly seen after barely playing 5 minutes of the game.It's a real joy to play this game and for its price of mere 10 bucks it offers u more than u would expect.The story is really well done,the music is great and the artwork is just stunning,very beautiful worlds and areas make this game even more enjoyable.AND u know what all this was done by 1 guy,yeah no this game was single handedlly developed and prodeced by ONE GUY!!!!........How long did it take him,u ask?......well....around.........."4 YEARS!!!!",thats right 4 fukin years,seems like his life's work, for his efforts i respect him but this guy, has created a masterpiece, which is just too hard to describe.The story is very engrossing and a good one,the ending does seem like a cliffhanger but i doubt there'd be a sequel.The story,developing and the AWESOME art was done by this guy alone while a 3rd party was responsible for the music,and they have done a fantastic job.The combat is satisfying,fun and there are quite a few upgrades to unlock.The game does get a bit repetetive aroud the ends but the story easily compensates for it.BTW the game looks best at 1080p res,cuz the original art itself was done in 1080+ resolutions, no upscaling required ;-)
    This game easily earns a 9 but for the effort this guy took and the new fresh story i give it a full 10.
    This game clocked me 18 hrs but i was enjoying all visuals and playing at the "Tough" difficulty level,since the other 2 are just too easy and make the combat very effortless,so pls play at tough or higher difficulty.

    Thank u for reading my review and i hope i gave u reason enough to buy this game,but seriously buy the game !!!
    Thats it for me, Lunate signing off!

    P.S: If ur guessing why im not telling u his name,thats because i want u buy the damn game and play it and then judge the guy.    … Expand
  23. Jarkfander
    Jun 8, 2013
    10
    A game I really enjoyed playing: catchy story, delightful music, charming characters. Everything a game needs.
    The 2D cartoon style is well performed and fits really well the universe, the fights are really cool too and the combat system is well though.
    I highly recommend this cheap game, it'll make you lough and cry.
  24. Myzt0
    Jun 11, 2013
    10
    Dust: An Elysian Tail (Dust for short) makes a lot of AAA games look like Yes, the game is a 10 because not only was it created by one person, but the story... You feel so bad for "Dust" when you play the game. Yes his real name isn't Dust, but he doesn't remember anything. And no that isn't a spoiler because you get to know that the first fart minute into the game. Back to my point. TheDust: An Elysian Tail (Dust for short) makes a lot of AAA games look like Yes, the game is a 10 because not only was it created by one person, but the story... You feel so bad for "Dust" when you play the game. Yes his real name isn't Dust, but he doesn't remember anything. And no that isn't a spoiler because you get to know that the first fart minute into the game. Back to my point. The story is so immersive, the voice acting is amazing and the sound is impressive. Simply on of the best games, not just action/rpg games, but on of the absolutely best games ever, period.… Expand
  25. BlazeFox
    Jun 22, 2013
    10
    This game is purely amazing, the graphics are just beautiful, the voice acting is top marks, the story is very nice and gripping, and the characters are fun. I got this game not expecting much, but was blown away but the great gameplay and amusing story. I have no gripes about this game whatsoever, it's petty much flawless.
  26. Splender
    Jul 3, 2013
    10
    Its an EPIC game with great story and combat system. Its a game I enjoyed playing it has replaybility and a lot of reference to other game like Super Meat Boy, Mario etc. it is a game that has a heart. From the beginning of the game to the end you can see how much effort was put into it.
  27. Crezcent
    Jul 3, 2013
    10
    A great PC game, created with heart, thought and love. Beautiful environments and music. Combat could have been improved with more developed skills to make character development better. But all in all, this is the first game ever i thought deserved a 10.
  28. Afroman22
    Jul 26, 2013
    10
    This was an Xbox Live Arcade Game? Really? This game is truly amazing. A wonderful piece. You can see the developer took his time and put effort into every detail. Sure it's only 2D Side Strolling but never once did I think "Oh this looks cheesy." Every time I went somewhere new it always started with a "Wow." or "Amazing..." This game is defiantly worth it's money. Another note is... thisThis was an Xbox Live Arcade Game? Really? This game is truly amazing. A wonderful piece. You can see the developer took his time and put effort into every detail. Sure it's only 2D Side Strolling but never once did I think "Oh this looks cheesy." Every time I went somewhere new it always started with a "Wow." or "Amazing..." This game is defiantly worth it's money. Another note is... this game instantly gets 2 bonus points for a PERFECT PORT to PC. This puts a lot of AAA game industries to shame.

    Story is fantastic. It's well told. It's not going to be something phenomenal but just how the pacing is done and how each part is teaching Dust a lesson as he gets his memories back and how it tells us a little bit of his past at the same time just keeps you going and wanting more. Although I don't know what to say about the ending but maybe a sequel for this amazing game?

    Characters here are memorable and I will never forget them. Some people will have problems with the characters being Furry but no one had a problem with StarFox now did they? So get over it. Dust and Fidget are an amazing duo and I couldn't help but laugh almost every time Fidget spoke. Her disregard for the fourth wall and the jokes with it just cracked me up. Dust's core character is really generic but his voice actor brings him to life and makes you feel the emotions he's going through It never once came to my mind that "Ew, Dust, is really generic." and I hope no one else feels the same. The sword Ahrah doesn't have a huge impact but you can defiantly see him as support role as well as main. He's trying to bring back Dust into someone better and reteach him his skills. That's enough to make me remember him.

    So this game is a 2D side stroller so it's visuals and graphics must be sub-par right? Wrong! It never once made me think they were poor or under developed. I thought they were amazing and really high end for a game like this. The enemies were detailed the backgrounds were amazing the character cut scenes were superb! Did I really pay 15 dollars for this game?

    Gameplay and controls are stellar! I mean it just feels, perfect. Everything responds quickly it moves smoothly it's just, fantastic. I can't really go into detail because, I can not really describe it. It's just amazing.

    Difficulty falls short or maybe I'm just skilled? I stuck it on Tough my first run through and found it anything but tough. Most of my deaths come from hazardous terrain. Never did I see any boss or monster challenging. Again though I think I am a great gamer as when my friend and my girlfriend played this on Tough they had difficulty with a lot of enemies. So I can't really say for sure if the game is too easy or too hard. I guess it just depends on how good of a player you are.

    Would I recommend this game? Hell yeah! GO BUY IT NOW DAMMIT! This is an absolute required game for everyone! I still can't believe I payed so little for this game. I would have easily paid 40 dollars for this!    … Expand
  29. AngealHewley
    Jul 19, 2013
    10
    Even though the antagonist's voice sounds a bit premature occasionally it's still a stellar title that is certainly worth your money and requires more fans!
  30. SoulMyst
    Aug 1, 2013
    10
    If you are not smiling and whacking your table saying "WOW!! AMAZING MORE MORE" within five minutes of playing this game and going through fights having the best feeling ever...then nothing will impress you...I feel sorry for you then ^_^

    Music... oh my GOD how wonderful and the graphics...characters...the amount of work and love that went into this game is utterly insane and very    If you are not smiling and whacking your table saying "WOW!! AMAZING MORE MORE" within five minutes of playing this game and going through fights having the best feeling ever...then nothing will impress you...I feel sorry for you then ^_^

    Music... oh my GOD how wonderful and the graphics...characters...the amount of work and love that went into this game is utterly insane and very appreciated...

    11/10 game and praises to the developers fantastic job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!    … Expand
  31. Necrometaloxico
    Jul 25, 2013
    10
    ¿Qué acciones tomarías tú, si un día despertaras en un lugar extraño y sin recordar absolutamente nada sobre ti mismo y tu pasado?...

    Esto es lo que nos propone Dust: An Elysian Tail, un juego donde se desenvuelve una historia no solamente original, sino verdaderamente atrapante y con varios giros en su desarrollo que no son para nada predecibles en realidad. Una historia en la cual te    ¿Qué acciones tomarías tú, si un día despertaras en un lugar extraño y sin recordar absolutamente nada sobre ti mismo y tu pasado?...

    Esto es lo que nos propone Dust: An Elysian Tail, un juego donde se desenvuelve una historia no solamente original, sino verdaderamente atrapante y con varios giros en su desarrollo que no son para nada predecibles en realidad. Una historia en la cual te encuentras con varios personajes únicos y memorables, sobre todo los principales, de los cuales te hacen querer saber más sobre ellos.

    Si extrañas juegos al estilo de los clásicos "Castlevania" encontrarás varias similitudes a ello en "Dust", que cuenta con una jugabilidad sencilla pero completamente adictiva, niveles amplios y con elementos de RPG ya que nuestro personaje puede subir de nivel y portar objetos que lo ayuden a ser más fuerte. También existe el uso de ataques mágicos que llegan a ser bastante espectaculares

    Este juego cuenta con varios secretos y parodias por descubrir en los cuales llega a hacerse mención a otros juegos reconocidos de otras empresas.

    En cuanto a gráficos es impresionante ya que son totalmente coloridos, atractivos y con escenarios perfectamente diseñados, cada uno con su tema propio muy bien adaptado.

    La banda sonora es de las mejores que he escuchado en mucho tiempo, sencillamente perfecta, encajando con la atmósfera de forma muy exacta, permitiéndonos sumergirnos placenteramente en esta aventura épica. Es increíble la manera en que encaja de forma maravillosa en los momentos mas críticos y emotivos de la historia.

    Las actuaciones sobre las voces de los personajes es algo que cabe destacar también ya que los diálogos son interpretados increíblemente, convirtiendo el intercambio de dialogos entre personajes en algo muy apetecible y entretenido. Sobre todo en las escenas de éxtasis donde las actuaciones llegan a convertirse en algo muy bello.

    En resúmen: "Dust: An Elysian Tail" es un juego que no te puedes perder si eres amante de las aventuras fantásticas o simplemente buscas un buen juego que te haga olvidarte completamente de la vida cotidiana para llevar tu mente a lugares fantásticos y coloridos... sin necesidad de drogas.

    Mis felicitaciones a los desarrolladores.    … Expand
  32. orangejedi829
    Aug 2, 2013
    10
    A true testament to the claim that video games can be art. Forget the mega-budget monstrosities like Call of Doody; this little game has actual heart. I would trade every soulless megabudget game that will inevitably be released next year for another meticulously hand-crafted game like this one. It's not just the literal artwork that makes this game incredible (and the artwork truly isA true testament to the claim that video games can be art. Forget the mega-budget monstrosities like Call of Doody; this little game has actual heart. I would trade every soulless megabudget game that will inevitably be released next year for another meticulously hand-crafted game like this one. It's not just the literal artwork that makes this game incredible (and the artwork truly is beatiful) but the entire experience the game provides. From gameplay to character development to story to soundtrack, Dust is an enthralling adventure that is refreshingly unique. This game might not have the million-dollar polish that the huge games have, but, to me, that didn't matter one bit. The gameplay is a blast and the story is surprisingly serious. The characters are instantly memorable, and if the game doesn't leave you breathless by the end, well, then, I don't know what would.
    All in all, a real masterpiece of an indie game one that is worth far more than $15, IMHO.    … Expand
  33. NintegaAlpha
    Aug 2, 2013
    10
    Amazing game. Beautiful graphics and art style, addicting beat 'em up game play, engaging story, dialogue, and voice acting. Including the fact that the game was made by only one man, this game is a master piece. With 10+ hours of game time, this game is definitely worth the $15.00
  34. Scypheroth
    Oct 17, 2013
    10
    One of the best indie games i ever played! Right on up at the top with Bastion. I would have no issues voting for this game to be IGOTY. Has a great story and alot of action and fast pace run and jump. The best part like i said is the story is spectacular. better than some AAA titls out there even. HIGHLY suggest this game
  35. Pacattack
    Oct 28, 2013
    10
    This game is amazing. Simply put. Smooth combat system and beautiful artwork, huge combinations of different attacks. You may think that the story is stupid and childish, you are mistaken. So what the story is about animals? That does not mean that it is merely meant to be played be children. Dust has an amazing combat system, stunning presentation, and amazing voice acting. Some gamesThis game is amazing. Simply put. Smooth combat system and beautiful artwork, huge combinations of different attacks. You may think that the story is stupid and childish, you are mistaken. So what the story is about animals? That does not mean that it is merely meant to be played be children. Dust has an amazing combat system, stunning presentation, and amazing voice acting. Some games don't even have a personality to go with their characters, some games don't even bother to give their characters a tone in their voice. But Dust is different. The characters are almost real. The tone, the way the characters act. It's almost real. I was not a big fan of RPG games. But games like Dust and Path of Exile have made me fans of a genre I once didn't care for. Dust is a wonderful game, and well worth the money.… Expand
  36. Jord
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    One man made this game. ONE MAN. This game was one of the greatest under the radar games of its time. So much love was put into this game and I'll never forget my experience with it.
  37. Paikia
    Nov 19, 2013
    10
    One of the best games I've encountered during the last few years. The graphics are great, the soundtrack is awesome, the story is good, but most importantly, the gameplay is awesome. This game is just pure fun!
    Kind of reminds me of "Guardian Heroes", a Sega Saturn game from quite a while back.
    The game is a side-scrolling fighting platformer, with strong RPG elements (character    One of the best games I've encountered during the last few years. The graphics are great, the soundtrack is awesome, the story is good, but most importantly, the gameplay is awesome. This game is just pure fun!
    Kind of reminds me of "Guardian Heroes", a Sega Saturn game from quite a while back.

    The game is a side-scrolling fighting platformer, with strong RPG elements (character progression, side quests and a deep storyline). Everything is in equilibrium, perfectly balanced. Don't miss on this one!    … Expand
  38. OmegaBowser
    Nov 25, 2013
    10
    This is the kind of game that big studios should make instead of all those useless and soul-less games.
    A mix between platform, action and RPG game, sort of castlevania or metroid-like.
    Graphism are simply magnificent, very well animated, and it even contains cinematics! Gameplay is as good as the artistical direction, very dynamic and nervous, with the RPG aspect, you can level-up    This is the kind of game that big studios should make instead of all those useless and soul-less games.
    A mix between platform, action and RPG game, sort of castlevania or metroid-like.

    Graphism are simply magnificent, very well animated, and it even contains cinematics!

    Gameplay is as good as the artistical direction, very dynamic and nervous, with the RPG aspect, you can level-up your character to upgrade your stats.

    The only bad point you can attribute to this game is his duration, only 8 hours to beat it, but there's enough optional quests to entertain.
    Anyway, stop reading this and just go play it!    … Expand
  39. gizarmaluke
    Nov 29, 2013
    10
    This is one of the games which after every completed quest would let me hope that it wasn't one of the last ones. And when I noticed the game is coming to an end, I was actually quite sad that my amazing journey would be over soon.
    This game is amazing and easily one of the best ones I have played in the last years. The graphics are GORGEOS, the environments are breathtakingly beautiful    This is one of the games which after every completed quest would let me hope that it wasn't one of the last ones. And when I noticed the game is coming to an end, I was actually quite sad that my amazing journey would be over soon.
    This game is amazing and easily one of the best ones I have played in the last years. The graphics are GORGEOS, the environments are breathtakingly beautiful and I've come to love the characters over the course of the game (gotta admit, I found Fidget to be pretty annoying at first, that changed pretty soon tho).

    I would highly recommend this game to anyone!    … Expand
  40. DeadDoggy
    Dec 8, 2013
    10
    This is without any exaggeration the best high-definition platform game available on the pc. Amazing artwork and great story, too bad it was low budget but I hear of a sequel coming sometime in the next year or two. I would recommend this game to anyone who likes adventure and platform combat.
  41. Lucathegreat
    Jan 27, 2014
    10
    Beautiful, fun to play, with an unique style and a mature plot despite the "cartoon" characters.
    Probably one of the best Indie games of the year and a true example of how a metroidvania should be done.
  42. Vattira
    Dec 26, 2013
    10
    Just what it says on the tin. A gorgeous landscape with imaginative, memorable characters, brilliant music, and the combat system is the single most responsive I've ever seen in a brawler. When I die, it's because I did something stupid, not because the system is derpy or because the levels screw you over.
  43. victormfeitosa
    Jan 1, 2014
    10
    This game is absolutely amazing. Well done for the small (and talented) team that made it!!This is an absolutely amazing game. One of the best I`ve ever played. Could not stop playing until finishing it. The only negative thing is the plot lenght and deepness: after seeing the end, I felt clearly that the story should have been developed further. Later on, the creator of the game statedThis game is absolutely amazing. Well done for the small (and talented) team that made it!!This is an absolutely amazing game. One of the best I`ve ever played. Could not stop playing until finishing it. The only negative thing is the plot lenght and deepness: after seeing the end, I felt clearly that the story should have been developed further. Later on, the creator of the game stated that he, indeed, had to cut one third of the story in order to publish the game on time.
    Besides this setback, anyone interested in a very good Metroidvania adventure action rpg should play this game. Well done!!    … Expand
  44. NeverSurrender1
    Jan 3, 2014
    10
    This game is amazing. A beautiful world, amazing music, and fantastic voice acting. The combat and gameplay is smooth, and the story line is great. I loved Dust: An Elysian Tail from the moment I came to the main menu to the beautiful song during the credits. Everything about this game I loved.

    Dust: An Elysian Tail is definitely worth the money. I would recommend it to anyone. It's    This game is amazing. A beautiful world, amazing music, and fantastic voice acting. The combat and gameplay is smooth, and the story line is great. I loved Dust: An Elysian Tail from the moment I came to the main menu to the beautiful song during the credits. Everything about this game I loved.

    Dust: An Elysian Tail is definitely worth the money. I would recommend it to anyone. It's simply amazing. To anyone who has not played this game, do it if you're able. I just can't stress enough how beautiful and amazing Dust: An Elysian Tail is.    … Expand
  45. le-ultra-gamer
    Jan 16, 2014
    10
    posso ser brasileiro mas mesmo assim esse jogo é ótimo!! (eu até zerei ele) e também foi um dos primeiro que me emocionou por isso recomendo jogar e para ser sincero o jogo não é como gta ou saints row mais sim um ótimo jogo que foi feito com boas artes
  46. sdc
    Apr 5, 2015
    10
    Well worth the 15 bucks they charge nowadays. A fantastic story with twists and turns, a beautiful art design that reminds me of Disney when it was good, solid combat and slick controls, tight level design, ambient music, and I really love the graphics, if not washed out.
  47. Surlent
    Feb 9, 2014
    10
    One of the best indie games out there - it should please fans of fast-paced action and RPG games alike. I can only wait for a sequel as good as the first...
  48. stealth545
    Feb 18, 2014
    10
    This game is an emotional fantasy for all ages, with anime-like beautiful graphics combining quality and beauty. Great storyline. A must-get game with beauty and fighting combined. Unique, inspiring, emotional. Get this game
  49. htetas
    Jul 8, 2015
    10
    I don't normally like indie platformer but this game is different and it is really beautiful and combat is really fun. It is impressive more so that every character has voice acting. I love the game and would recommend anyone in a heartbeat.
  50. ANF
    Apr 14, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. เกมนี้เป็นทุกสิ่งที่คุณอาจต้องการในการดำเนินการสมมุติ ฝุ่นมีที่น่าตื่นตาตื่นใจศิลปะสไตล์ด้วยของเหลว, การมีส่วนร่วมในการต่อสู้ เพลงเป็นที่ยอดเยี่ยมและการแสดงเสียงเป็นบางส่วนของที่ดีที่สุดที่ฉันเคยได้ยินเรื่องราวความสดใหม่จริงๆและทำให้คุณรู้สึกเห็นใจมากเป็นตัวอักษร ไม่บ่อยครั้งที่ฉันประทับใจกับเกมนี้มาก ฉันอยากจะแนะนำเกมนี้ เกมนี้ขัด… Expand
  51. ThePCGamer101
    Jun 24, 2015
    10
    A Fantastic Indie game, the creator at Humble Hearts should be awarded for all his effort and hard work, very good work a fantastic indie game... Recommend buying this game
  52. clavinthecat
    Jun 23, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The ending where he dies and comes back brings great feels, this is a game with underline great graphics and great story line. Everything works out perfectly where you help people while unraveling the mystery of who the main character is and why he exists. Great mechanics and well everything at LEAST great and a squeal would be amazing and very possible.… Expand
  53. ForestBug
    Dec 22, 2014
    10
    WARNING: FAN BOY AHEAD

    The heck with the furry haters and internet trolls, this game is amazing. Let alone my favorite game of all time! The art style is amazing, the characters are well-developed, and the music is astounding. Yes, I may be a furry, but that doesn't prove the point that you'll be attached to certain characters. ESPECIALLY Dust himself. Even the development was    WARNING: FAN BOY AHEAD

    The heck with the furry haters and internet trolls, this game is amazing. Let alone my favorite game of all time! The art style is amazing, the characters are well-developed, and the music is astounding. Yes, I may be a furry, but that doesn't prove the point that you'll be attached to certain characters. ESPECIALLY Dust himself. Even the development was interesting, because it took 4 years to make by one guy (aside from the music, voice acting, writing, etc.) The game also has addictive gameplay and makes a unique use of the controls. Even though it is a RPG, you won't have to grind in it, which is less painful. The bosses are great and challenging fights that make you feel depressed at the end. Speaking of which, the game can get dark at times, even if it's rated E 10. All in all, this game is PLUPERFECT. PERFECT ART. PERFECT CHARACTERS. PERFECT STORY. PERFECT MUSIC. PERFECT GAMEPLAY. PERFECT QUESTS. PERFECT EVERYTHING!!!

    And to think, 29 people posted negative reviews of this game. All I can say is this: I know I'm supposed to be open to other opinions, but whoever hated this game is bound to face their demise.    … Expand
  54. DreamerTG
    Mar 2, 2015
    10
    Dust an Elysian Tail may be rough here and there, and I admit I hated certain sgements, but looking back at the whole adventure, this is easily one of the best games out there, and a shining example of how a PC game truly should be.
  55. Nemo84
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    Great game with great gameplay. Good music, good levels, good characters i can't find anything bad about this game. I played it over and over again. All i need to say is play it for sure you will enjoy.
  56. Dbgarza
    Nov 4, 2016
    10
    This is a game that got me really hooked that I played it from beginning to end on the same month I bought it. The visual part is simply amazing. The combat system is solid and easy to dominate, and this is comming from someone who sucks at making combos, but on this game I made them fairly easy that I even unlocked the 1000 combo achievement (it is called Combo Breaker if my memory servesThis is a game that got me really hooked that I played it from beginning to end on the same month I bought it. The visual part is simply amazing. The combat system is solid and easy to dominate, and this is comming from someone who sucks at making combos, but on this game I made them fairly easy that I even unlocked the 1000 combo achievement (it is called Combo Breaker if my memory serves right).

    I loved the anime style videos that play on certain parts of the game that tells us more about the game's plot, even though in PC they're compressed as Windows Media Videos, the quality is quite high.

    The characters's personalities were quite good. Kudos to the voice cast because of how much effort they put into recording the dialogs, each actor recorded their dialogs on their home studios while the voice director was directing them via Skype call.

    I really can recommend this game. Actually I recommended it to a friend of mine and he fell in love with it.

    This is how a good game should be done and best thing is that you can play the PC version even on a old Core 2 Duo PC with 2GB ram, so no one will be out due to not having a good PC :)    … Expand
  57. Toalbooth
    Jan 16, 2017
    10
    For a game made by one man who had no experience in coding, and a budget of $40,000 out of his own wallet, this has to be one of the, if not THE best game I have ever played in my life.
    When the game first came out onto Xbox Live in 2012, it later got ported to Steam in 2013: the version I've played, which is also the best PC port of any game I've ever seen, fantastic PC controls which    For a game made by one man who had no experience in coding, and a budget of $40,000 out of his own wallet, this has to be one of the, if not THE best game I have ever played in my life.
    When the game first came out onto Xbox Live in 2012, it later got ported to Steam in 2013: the version I've played, which is also the best PC port of any game I've ever seen, fantastic PC controls which don't require a controller, and even re-recorded lines in some cases for the PC controls, not to mention instant recognition when you hook up a controller to it.
    Dust is a Sidescroller Beat 'em up, you fight to save the Moonlblood race from General Gaius, as you go on, the game is also a form of Metroidvania, a set pathway but will reward you if you're curious to go off the beaten path.
    The visuals are absolutely fantastic, the voice acting is perfect in portraying the characters and the music is ear warming deliciousness.
    I don't want to say more without going into my hype rant mode, but please do buy this game, whether it's on Steam and PS4 for £11 or iOS for £4.99, you will have an amazing time playing it.
    You can thank me later    … Expand
  58. seifershneider
    Feb 16, 2017
    10
    Dust: An Elysian Tail is a fantastyic beat'em all that draws inspiration from the great Muramasa. This game has everything that a player looks for in a video game: poetry, wonder, quality gameplay, smart ideas and fantastic implementation, powerful sensations and great pleasure/satisfaction. I strongly recommend this game for the following reasons:

    Pros: + Both an enchanting and brutal    Dust: An Elysian Tail is a fantastyic beat'em all that draws inspiration from the great Muramasa. This game has everything that a player looks for in a video game: poetry, wonder, quality gameplay, smart ideas and fantastic implementation, powerful sensations and great pleasure/satisfaction. I strongly recommend this game for the following reasons:

    Pros:
    + Both an enchanting and brutal environment/story.
    + A magnificient artistic direction.
    + A speedy and nervous gameplay.
    + Over 10 hours to finish the game.
    + A good soundtrack
    + A low price for the quality of the game. Seriously, there are some garbage games out there for $49+.

    Cons or Tips:
    + Start with higher difficulty if you want a serious challenge.
    + Combos could have been made more complex.
    + I loved the game so much that I didn't want to finish it. I didn't want the story to end... And that's a mark of an outstanding artwork.

    Verdict: A+    … Expand
  59. triptop
    May 29, 2017
    10
    A beautiful example of indie gaming done right. You can see just how much of the creator's soul was poured into this work, from its gorgeous art, diverse environments, tight controls, fun and varied combat, humorous story, and clear direction from beginning to end. You absolutely should not pass this one up, It still runs for $15 on Steam, and it's one of those special exceptions thatA beautiful example of indie gaming done right. You can see just how much of the creator's soul was poured into this work, from its gorgeous art, diverse environments, tight controls, fun and varied combat, humorous story, and clear direction from beginning to end. You absolutely should not pass this one up, It still runs for $15 on Steam, and it's one of those special exceptions that feels like it deserves that price point even years after release. I sincerely hope that the creator's success and profit here results in more games of this caliber down the line.… Expand
  60. Yanarsen
    Apr 11, 2019
    10
    Stunning game! Its beautiful from all aspects. Amazing 2D action RPG. Storyline is so surprising, map is fairly big, soundtrack is complete killer! A lot of different equipment, even achievements on Steam are not just based on "Complete the game and you have all of 'em". Combat system is solid, and all opponents (especially bosses) are quite unique. Boss fights are maybe weak point of thisStunning game! Its beautiful from all aspects. Amazing 2D action RPG. Storyline is so surprising, map is fairly big, soundtrack is complete killer! A lot of different equipment, even achievements on Steam are not just based on "Complete the game and you have all of 'em". Combat system is solid, and all opponents (especially bosses) are quite unique. Boss fights are maybe weak point of this game (they are not that hard, but not so easy neither). And thing that impresses me the most is that this game is entirely made by ONE SINGLE PERSON! Hope we will see some sequel at any point!… Expand
  61. BobTheViking
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This game is an excellent 2D Action RPG. It is definitely one of my all time favorites. The gameplay is tons of fun. The graphics are pretty. The soundtrack is AMAZING! And I also really liked the story as well. Given that its a pretty cheap game to buy, I would have to say its a great value for what you are paying!
  62. Inuyasha17
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    It feels like watching an animation.
    It's a well-made game with great care.
    Especially, action and hitting sense are excellent.
    Aside from the story, I recommend this game even if you want to enjoy the action.
    But the story is also a very good game.
    It's probably like a sword fight game set in the Goryeo Dynasty of Korea.
  63. GandalfCzarny
    Jun 2, 2021
    10
    From whatever perpective I look from I see masterpiece. I love everything about this game - story, characters, lore, graphics, music, voice acting, nearly everything is perfect. This is truly one of my top 5 games of all time
  64. SergeiZ
    Oct 22, 2021
    10
    Wonderful Metroidvania. Interesting, albeit predictable, plot, characters. Of the minuses, I note not the smoothest mechanics (sometimes opponents can throw the player into the abyss or lava), and in some places not the most beautiful graphics. But the game was essentially made by one person, so I'm ready to forgive those flaws.
  65. socokid
    Jun 17, 2013
    9
    I am not usually a fan of side-scrollers, but this game was thoroughly enjoyable from beginning to end. The pace was perfect, the skill tree provided noticeable and significant upgrades to the play with every choice and the story was engaging. The voice actors were top notch.

    The graphics are beautiful, and action is very fluid. The price was right so I gave it a shot and was well rewarded.
  66. vahn
    Oct 23, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game was a little surprise for me: I was initially unsure of trying (either for the furry-like creatures, either for the castlevania style of gaming), but in the end I saw how it was fun and I got it myself: the result is that Dust is one of the funniest, most engaging action-rpg games around. Granted though it has plentiful of flaws that in my opinion don't give this a perfect score, because some are annoying and some are weird. The story, for starters, has a fatal flaw: it almost disappears during the middle of the game because the plot "forcefully" says to wait for the right moment, and that's annoying because it could have handled better by just giving us small hints and keeping the plot more constant; in the end, we focus on other things while we "wait" for the final resolution. Also, although this is highly personal, the choice of using furry-like creatures (AND BEFORE ANYONE EVEN BREATHES, I DID LIKE THE CHOICE OF IT) is a little unoriginal because it's a story of racism: for some reason whenever I read stories about furries (games or not), it's often racism or hatred between two of different species (with some exceptions): in my opinion they could have gone easily with humans instead, but I will lie if I said that the furries actually do give a nice cartoony touch and they are greatly well done and detailed. Infact Dust is not only a great character and very cool, but also very interesting and very likeable and that's a huge accomplishment to make, since cool characters tend to be annoying (Dante...here comes the dislikes) and likeable characters tend to be secondary characters of (bad) main characters (the sub characters of Tales of Xillia it's the first thing that pops in my mind). Speaking of, even Fidget (the secondary character) isn't all that bad either and it's likeable too!. However, her voice can be annoying. Also the secondary characters are good, although we won't know them for too long and they'll basically disappear after their quests. Ok story is out, what's else that doesn't work? The combat: the combos that we will get aren't that many but they are useful. For 5 minutes, after that you'll only know to use one skill: Dust Storm. What it does? With Fidget's spells, you can basically nuke everyone on the area without much trouble (and when you get the flying storm, it's even easier), and you'll get this in the very first level, making the game extremely easy: no point rising the difficulty, for it will only increase the damage from enemies and their hp, making it just more annoying than difficult, with also one big annoying thing: the save points only recover a portion of your HP, depending on which difficulty you play with (if the lowest, it fully recovers, if higher it recovers a quarter), and this is personally a big annoying flaw because, in the first hours of the game, you'll rarely get full hp unless you get food, which is expensive at first and unless you play on the easiest difficulty the HP WILL NOT recover in any other way except food (later on, you get regen items, which is something). Luckily this wasn't an issue, but I didn't like this design choide, since fights will be easy (and short) and levelling will be also very fast considering that the more combo, the extra xp you get and later on we do get very useful skills that will be needed to complete the maps (slide, double jump, climbinb, etc). Luckily we get some trials during the game (6 if I'm right) that will also give you some break from the usual slaughter and will put to test your main skills, but in here I noticed another issue: the controls aren't that perfect, since a lot of times they tend to be not precise (the dodge doesn't make you invulnerable while dodging and has a fixed range; slide has a fixed range too and climbing "won't climb" on it's own, but you'll have to jump): this issue is most notable while doing the trials, since precision is almost required for getting 4 stars, but for the rest of the game is no big brainer and you won't even care. And for last, the game isn't exactly long: I finished at 100% in 15 hours max, but for those who don't want to complete the game will surely take 10 hours more or less, depending on how much you're rushing. But I think the good points overcome the bad points: graphically it's a gem, animation is fantastic on Dust (not as good on the rest of the characters), voice acting is very well done and engaging (a bit too overacting now and then), level design is great and the story even with flaws is very good and has an good and often misused idea behind (SPOILER: the soul merging) that is well done. And it's cheap too. If you love games like Castlevania, this might a great gift for your collection; if you love Action-Rpg, you will like how fast and easy is to play. Only thing that might drawback people is the furry elements but, considering the quality of the game itself, I dare say is a detail that you can easily ignore. Give it a shot: it highly deserves it!… Expand
  67. hassenpheffer
    Mar 27, 2015
    9
    Excellent in almost every respect. I can go on and on about all the terrific gameplay and visuals but just find out how awesome it is on your own. A must own for old school platform lovers.
  68. GolovA
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    I have yet to see a more abysmal save/checkpoint system and a more annoying Skip dialogue mechanism than in Dust. Yet the game is swift, dynamic, a bit childish, but with a solid though stereotypical and cliché story/names/character depiction, well drawn, and generally well put together.

    En Resumen:
    Solid Dynamic Well Designed and Fun 2D Slasher.
  69. lahjaunelmia
    Oct 29, 2014
    9
    This is a spoiler-free review. Very good game. Only one chapter was actually boring, the third one but other than that the gameplay was good. Every boss is very easy except for the final boss. It wasn't hard but at least gave me some challenge. As for the story it was fantastic and the voice acting was topnotch. Ending was just weird I mean the characters' reactions seemed kindaThis is a spoiler-free review. Very good game. Only one chapter was actually boring, the third one but other than that the gameplay was good. Every boss is very easy except for the final boss. It wasn't hard but at least gave me some challenge. As for the story it was fantastic and the voice acting was topnotch. Ending was just weird I mean the characters' reactions seemed kinda whatever-like somewhat. There could have been more emotion in the ending. Music is also amazing and there is a lot to do in this game if you want to 100% it. It took me like 10 hours just do beat the game.… Expand
  70. ShaziaTheProud
    Jul 29, 2013
    9
    A truly outstanding game. While playing, you are constantly in awe of the fact that it was all hand-drawn by one person. It's definitely easy to tell that it was a labor of love. Everything about the game is fantastic the gameplay is fun, fast-paced, and addicting, the story is interesting, the characters are endearing, the music is great, the environments are dazzling, the animation ofA truly outstanding game. While playing, you are constantly in awe of the fact that it was all hand-drawn by one person. It's definitely easy to tell that it was a labor of love. Everything about the game is fantastic the gameplay is fun, fast-paced, and addicting, the story is interesting, the characters are endearing, the music is great, the environments are dazzling, the animation of the main character is exquisite, and I enjoyed the voice acting. I really, really hope that there is a sequel to this down the road, even if it takes years. My only complaint about the game, an all-too-frequently complaint about many games that we love, is that it's too short … Expand
  71. Claytality
    Apr 7, 2017
    9
    Dust has great metroidvania action, superb voice acting, humorous moments, and a great story.

    A few small flaws:
    1. occasionally imprecise parrying
    2. the cartoon cut scenes are somewhat poor quality

    As a metroidvania fan I highly recommend this game. Bought for $2.99 on sale, played 25 hours. Will play again every few years for the rest of my life.
  72. Muuvinki
    Jul 20, 2013
    9
    Very interesting platformer action game with great combat system. Story that will keep you interested until the end of the game. If you haven't considered buying this game go get it now. Its fully worth its money.
  73. birdman3
    Apr 12, 2014
    9
    Dust has a number of incredible things going for it. The tooney art style is easy on the eyes, but also distracts you from the deep storyline that the game follows. Make no mistake- this game can get heavy. Is it a game for children? Sure, a child could play it, but the game is much more than that. I found the writing in the game to be nothing less than phenomenal. The character quips andDust has a number of incredible things going for it. The tooney art style is easy on the eyes, but also distracts you from the deep storyline that the game follows. Make no mistake- this game can get heavy. Is it a game for children? Sure, a child could play it, but the game is much more than that. I found the writing in the game to be nothing less than phenomenal. The character quips and attitude that were present were highly appealing, especially anything that was said by Fidget. The quests that you undertake throughout the game are nothing special, but the over-arcing storyline is a good one to pay attention to. The combat in the game is solid and very flashy and pretty rewarding. My only complaint about the game is how repetitive the combat can get, however. Once you find a few combos that work for you, you rarely use anything else for the rest of the game. And there is A LOT of combat- every time you leave a section, monsters respawn in every area you cleared. I felt like there was a decent amount of back-tracking throughout the game, so I fought more respawns throughout the game than anything else. But that is the ONE downside to the game overall. Everything else was fantastic- from the characters to the gameplay to the item management to the RPG elements, everything was handled fantastically. It was well worth the 14 hours it took me to beat the game (it's probably possible to beat the game in about half the time, but like I said, I did a fair amount of backtracking and searching). I would recommend this game to just about anyone.

    PS Games like this seem to suffer from pacing issues- they're not quite sure when they should end. Dust just about nails it, in terms of length. Nothing feels terribly stretched out.    … Expand
  74. will824
    Dec 11, 2013
    9
    Dust is a nice game, that might be easy even on the hardest difficulty and has unbalanced leveling play, but it provides an interesting cure story and somewhere around 20 hours of entertainment.

    Amazing for such a small team of devs to come up with a nice and fun game.
  75. SeveredWing
    Jan 14, 2014
    9
    Dust: An Elysian Tail is a glorious trip through a world of anthropomorphic beauty that should not be missed by anyone who has a soft spot for cute furry creatures who can also kick butt. The art style and voice acting alone make the game worth playing for hours on end. The game play is a standard side-scroller with combo/button mashing mechanics built in. While not entirely original itDust: An Elysian Tail is a glorious trip through a world of anthropomorphic beauty that should not be missed by anyone who has a soft spot for cute furry creatures who can also kick butt. The art style and voice acting alone make the game worth playing for hours on end. The game play is a standard side-scroller with combo/button mashing mechanics built in. While not entirely original it has enough diversity in the way it approaches the system that it is far from a repetitive bore-fest. I just cannot say enough about the gorgeous visuals in the game. Dialogue is delivered through a high quality portrait of the character talking and the images are lush and well animated. In addition the voice acting is just fabulous and if you don't immediately giggle when first hearing Fidget speak this likely is not the game for you.… Expand
  76. LOL_DUDE
    Jul 25, 2013
    9
    I personally liked this game so, so much that I would give it a 10 if I didn't take some time to examine the game. The combat is great (really spectacle fighter-y), platforming is good, and the storytelling is near-perfect. The only things that bring this down is that at some points, the voice acting is less than desirable and the 4 boss fights throughout the game (excluding the finalI personally liked this game so, so much that I would give it a 10 if I didn't take some time to examine the game. The combat is great (really spectacle fighter-y), platforming is good, and the storytelling is near-perfect. The only things that bring this down is that at some points, the voice acting is less than desirable and the 4 boss fights throughout the game (excluding the final boss) are nothing very special. Another thing is that a Windows update currently brought a bug that causes some backgrounds and cutscenes to be cut off on the top and some backgrounds to not display at all (like on the map screen where you should see the Navi-esque companion Fidget sleeping or eating marshmallows over a campfire), but since this could easily be fixed in a future Windows update, I will not allow it to affect my score. If you ask me, this is a must-have.… Expand
  77. Matchet
    Oct 29, 2013
    9
    I've just revisited this game and what a gem it is: good storyline.great music, lots of options. The world is vivid and engrossing. My only very small complaint is that the battles turn a bit repetitive in the long run but still at grand game.
  78. xkdksk
    Jul 7, 2013
    9
    Wonderful indie fantasy game.

    I can't leave on my chair when I play this game.

    Lovely story, mood and easy but fantastic combo action.

    I am sure this can be one of best platform action up to recently. Recommend!
  79. backInBone
    Sep 21, 2013
    9
    I love Fidget! Er, this game can be better but it's already excellent enough. New things (skills, enemies, items, gameplay) keep coming from the first minute to the last so you won't easily get tired of it. The exploration is terrifically good fun. There are 12 friends (characters from other 8 awesome games) to be rescued in this game and the Bastion-style way to rescue the kid fromI love Fidget! Er, this game can be better but it's already excellent enough. New things (skills, enemies, items, gameplay) keep coming from the first minute to the last so you won't easily get tired of it. The exploration is terrifically good fun. There are 12 friends (characters from other 8 awesome games) to be rescued in this game and the Bastion-style way to rescue the kid from Bastion most impressed me. And again, I love Fidget!… Expand
  80. Tarquis
    Jun 27, 2013
    9
    This is everything an action rpg sidescroller can offer! Fluid combat, gripping story and characters, nice music, good voiceactors and a good gear system for upgrades and armor.

    This is a game that i highly recommend to anyone. It's major selling point is actually it's combat that is so fluid, smooth and makes you feel like a total badass when chopping up your foes. The only    This is everything an action rpg sidescroller can offer! Fluid combat, gripping story and characters, nice music, good voiceactors and a good gear system for upgrades and armor.

    This is a game that i highly recommend to anyone. It's major selling point is actually it's combat that is so fluid, smooth and makes you feel like a total badass when chopping up your foes.

    The only complaint is that after playing it for well over 17h, you can get a little tired of the combat style, but i couldn't stop myself from playing it 24/7 thanks to it's amazing story and characters. Worth meantioning is also that only one guy made this game (not counting voice actors and artists working on music) in only four years! Since he released it on Xbox first he made sure to make the best goddamn port i think i have ever seen.    … Expand
  81. HELLruler
    Jul 4, 2013
    9
    One of the best games I played this year. The adventure is great, nice music and voices, and fast-paced combat. The difficulty gradually changes, and you get better items to fight the harder monsters, so you dont need to waste hours grinding
    The game is not expensive, and really worth buying
  82. Mariokata
    Oct 26, 2013
    9
    One of the best RPG games that I played. A few hours into the game and I was hooked. Beautiful art style, Great story, amazing music and voice acting. The game is very polished and you can feel the love that went into developing this gem. Really this game was a breath of fresh air and I highly recommend a purchase.

    Pros: Great story, Great dialog, spectacular art style, cameos from    One of the best RPG games that I played. A few hours into the game and I was hooked. Beautiful art style, Great story, amazing music and voice acting. The game is very polished and you can feel the love that went into developing this gem. Really this game was a breath of fresh air and I highly recommend a purchase.

    Pros: Great story, Great dialog, spectacular art style, cameos from other indie game characters (fez, braid, super meat boy etc..), very cheap, many hours of pure fun, the ending is very touching, main character is energetic, humorous conversations :)

    Cons: Bosses are very easy, some repetition from backtracking and revisiting environments in order to complete some side quests or unlock achievements, Dust needs more combat moves

    Total score: 09/10    … Expand
  83. FogCityRoller
    Mar 15, 2015
    9
    A thoroughly fun adventure through an anthropomorphic world with seemingly endless combos and enchanted swords. Well worth the money and another notch on the belt of fantastic indie games. A bit of a button masher but if you loved Odin Sphere for PS2 you will absolutely love this game.
  84. REDPhantomPie
    Apr 12, 2014
    9
    this game is just so amazing, if u like action rpg games, i would definitely recommend this. The graphics,storyline, combat and stuff is just so cool and the final boss battle was kinda epic and the ending was kinda sad.
  85. SweetRollsAhoy
    Dec 29, 2013
    9
    A fun and interesting game. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the gameplay. Considering that this game was made mainly by one animator who wanted to make a game, it is very good.

    Without spoiling the story, you play as Dust, who is currently suffering form amnesia. A sword that can control the element of wind comes to him, along with the sword's guardian (and Dust's new companion)    A fun and interesting game. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the gameplay. Considering that this game was made mainly by one animator who wanted to make a game, it is very good.

    Without spoiling the story, you play as Dust, who is currently suffering form amnesia. A sword that can control the element of wind comes to him, along with the sword's guardian (and Dust's new companion) Fidget. Together they go on an adventure to recover Dust's memories and discovering the truth behind his existence.

    The gameplay is slightly similar to Muramasa: Demon Blade. It's a side scroller where you have a very overpowered blade (if used properly). Fidget is used to add variety to your attacks with her powers. As you play you gain new abilities and items which allow you to access areas previously blocked off. Pretty straight forward.

    As for the characters, in regards to the designs and dialog, I found them charming. Many see it as childish or immature or too "furry" which honestly the designs are no different then a lot of the anthro cartoons we all have grown up with), but I found it to be enjoyable. The one liners had me laughing and the characters actually managed to get me very absorbed in the game. I didn't want to quit until I had beat the game.

    The game is rather short, but in my opinion it was well worth the money. I have replayed it several times and still find it as charming as when I first played. The story was actually very unique and well done. It surprised me. I recommend that anyone who purchases Dust An Elysian Tail is that you please keep an open mind. Let yourself enjoy the story and don't focus so much on the art style choice (which I have seen many people avoiding because).

    Highly recommended.    … Expand
  86. Joeberto
    Jan 7, 2014
    9
    Joeberto's Short Review:

    - Cartoon graphic really accurate and funny.

    - Gameplay full of action.

    - Rpg, Hack 'n Slash, Platform, this game is NEVER boring.

    - Buy it.
  87. Reciter5613
    Oct 10, 2014
    9
    This was a fun 2D side scrolled. The DMC like fighting is simple and very engaging. The hand-drawn characters are nicely animated and I hope to see more games done like this. Most of the characters are very likeable (Especially Fidget).

    Only a few flaws I could see. Like how your almost never getting the crafting materials you need on a drop. Good thing they have the thing of selling it    This was a fun 2D side scrolled. The DMC like fighting is simple and very engaging. The hand-drawn characters are nicely animated and I hope to see more games done like this. Most of the characters are very likeable (Especially Fidget).

    Only a few flaws I could see. Like how your almost never getting the crafting materials you need on a drop. Good thing they have the thing of selling it to buy later. Also the last lever overdoes it on the enemies making it repetitive and annoying after a while. Finally the only flaw with the story is the Villain's reasons for the evil thing he's doing is very questionable and it didn't feel like there was enough build-up before the final battle.

    Overall I'm glad I played it and hope to see more like this.    … Expand
  88. DaydreamR
    Apr 6, 2017
    9
    Wow This action RPG video game that I found for a long time. Cuteness animation, all of character are neutral face. The story is great until ending, make me happy 9/10
  89. QAOSbringer
    Feb 25, 2023
    9
    Combination of Metroidvania, RPG, Hack&Slash and Action Platform in a single game. The story feels very childish, but it presents a tale-like atmosphere inside the game. You can choose different difficulty settings, and this gives you a chance to play with your own play-style. You can taste the story, or just challenge yourself to the max. Character movements are smooth enough, and youCombination of Metroidvania, RPG, Hack&Slash and Action Platform in a single game. The story feels very childish, but it presents a tale-like atmosphere inside the game. You can choose different difficulty settings, and this gives you a chance to play with your own play-style. You can taste the story, or just challenge yourself to the max. Character movements are smooth enough, and you regularly get new abilities during the story. You can play the game as a button mashing Hack&Slash, or just an exploring platform game, no matter what is your choice, it gives enough content for that specific purpose.

    9: Must play - One of the best games of the year it came out.    … Expand
  90. MalFet1999
    Mar 3, 2014
    8
    I read quite a bit of hype over this game before I bit the bullet and picked it up. For the most part the hype is well deserved. For a casual action RPG/platformer look no further. The combat mechanics are deep enough not to feel terribly button-mashy, but neither are they challenging to master. The comedy is campy, but fun, and fits the animation well. Be prepared for furries, though. AndI read quite a bit of hype over this game before I bit the bullet and picked it up. For the most part the hype is well deserved. For a casual action RPG/platformer look no further. The combat mechanics are deep enough not to feel terribly button-mashy, but neither are they challenging to master. The comedy is campy, but fun, and fits the animation well. Be prepared for furries, though. And the voice acting is... generally good... but I cringed at more than a few lines. I've read a few reviews that describe it as "the best ever" but that is far overreaching. It's okay, certainly not great. For me, the real appeal of this game is that it's just plain fun. It's a great platformer with great RPG elements (the gear/item options are particularly fun to search for and upgrade), and I had a lot of fun simply exploring the map in search of treasure. Absolutely worth a spot on your hard drive.… Expand
  91. StaticSpine
    Jan 11, 2014
    8
    This game is all about quality: the breathtaking visual art, sounds, voice acting. Fun exploration, engaging combat. It can become tedious though. The fair mark would be 85/100 or 8,5/10. This game should not be missed by fans of ARPG, Platformer or Brawler genres. Though I can advise it pretty much to any gamer because of it's top notch quality in every aspect.
  92. kckkryptonite
    Jul 27, 2013
    8
    What a beautiful game, with fluid controls and slick combat. The voice work is great and the difficulty of the side-puzzles reminded me of a time when things weren't hand fed to the player; and it is quite fun figuring things out on your own. It's a bit short and the combat may get repetitive at times, but I never found myself bored. The furries made me hesitant to try this game at first,What a beautiful game, with fluid controls and slick combat. The voice work is great and the difficulty of the side-puzzles reminded me of a time when things weren't hand fed to the player; and it is quite fun figuring things out on your own. It's a bit short and the combat may get repetitive at times, but I never found myself bored. The furries made me hesitant to try this game at first, but I ended up enjoying it.… Expand
  93. War_Dancer
    Jul 1, 2013
    8
    This game is simple yet exciting that would put your mind in focus, even with repetitive enemies and movements it makes your trigger finger slash through enemies. Although the choices are not much applied into the story, I was assuming that whenever he makes a choice, effects the further part of the game play. But so far it didn't do much. For a simple action game it needs goodThis game is simple yet exciting that would put your mind in focus, even with repetitive enemies and movements it makes your trigger finger slash through enemies. Although the choices are not much applied into the story, I was assuming that whenever he makes a choice, effects the further part of the game play. But so far it didn't do much. For a simple action game it needs good specifications in order to play it well. For ATI users the game's language/text is a mess.… Expand
  94. TheDreamlord
    Aug 5, 2013
    8
    Dust is a rather nice retro-ish platformer with modern sensibilities. It's a side scrolling rpg-light metrovania game with rather charming graphics, simple but with surprising depth fighting system and a light hearted enough story (probably due to the cutesy design, rather than the story itself).

    It can get a little tedious towards the end due to repetition and quite a bit of    Dust is a rather nice retro-ish platformer with modern sensibilities. It's a side scrolling rpg-light metrovania game with rather charming graphics, simple but with surprising depth fighting system and a light hearted enough story (probably due to the cutesy design, rather than the story itself).

    It can get a little tedious towards the end due to repetition and quite a bit of backtracking, and with hard difficulty it can grind on your nerves a bit, but on the whole, for a game of this length (around 15 hours long) and this polished state to be done by mostly one person, it is quite the achievement.

    If you like this type of games, this should be definitely one for your list. Do not expect the new dawn of gaming revolution, but it's pleasant enough to earn a place in your fond memories once you have finished it.    … Expand
  95. AnonJ
    Dec 30, 2013
    8
    Solid Gameplay, So-So Story

    The battle mechanism is quite a homage to old-style 2D hack & slash which turns out to be executed nicely. No clutter, no BS yet you'll feel it's generally varied and fluid enough to keep you interested. The side-quest and treasure box system is challenging and rewarding enough to have you spend quite a lot of time on, while not distracting from the main-line    Solid Gameplay, So-So Story

    The battle mechanism is quite a homage to old-style 2D hack & slash which turns out to be executed nicely. No clutter, no BS yet you'll feel it's generally varied and fluid enough to keep you interested. The side-quest and treasure box system is challenging and rewarding enough to have you spend quite a lot of time on, while not distracting from the main-line story. Therefore the gameplay feels solid throughout.

    The indie developer who made the game, Dean Dodrill, certainly put his heart into the gameplay. His attention to details is respectable. Every game area feels characteristically distinct and alive(if you've played Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic you'd get what I mean.) Not to mention the totally amazing tribute to other indie games which is seamlessly a part of this game. Especially the parts of stylistically simulating the gameplay of Fez, Braid, and Bastion. Though only a fraction of actual playing time, its implementation must have demanded tons of time and dedication. Contrast this with big productions nowadays, which are fast-food products: looking marketable but lacking in soul and sincerity. Although such contrast is no surprise anyways.

    With that said, I feel its story mostly mainstream at best. Sure it would be quite impossible to demand a video game of a story with Nobel-Prize(or even any serious literature) level of quality and complexity, but the story still feels a bit simplistic and failing to build on its quite promising backbone: protagonist’s identity to produce convincing and touching accounts. It feels as if there should have been much more interactions between characters, as well as much more in-depth depictions of characters. Instead, characters look good-or-evil, which is highly unreal; story looks more like something to string the gameplay together rather than a serious stuff by its own right, and the ending feels most thoroughly traditional-Hollywood and uninspiring, even a bit rushed. Though probably it’s a common phenomena for video games, I would say that Braid and Bastion, also as Indie Games, have told much more original and edifying stories than this one.

    In the end, while I gave Bastion 10 stars, I would only give Elysian Tail 8 stars. Not to say it’s not a good game. Only that it looks slightly less awesome in my eyes. In all, still definitely a game made with heart, and worth trying for everybody!    … Expand
  96. curzon_dax
    Oct 14, 2013
    8
    For what it does, it is perfect, but I can help but add my personal preference. The game as a type is too "consoley", it doesn't offer much to a PC user used to more complex games with a more elaborate story. Then again, if you are into a simple pseudo-RPG with great graphics, great movement, great gameplay. you will love it, it is also very user friendly for very young audience (even 8 orFor what it does, it is perfect, but I can help but add my personal preference. The game as a type is too "consoley", it doesn't offer much to a PC user used to more complex games with a more elaborate story. Then again, if you are into a simple pseudo-RPG with great graphics, great movement, great gameplay. you will love it, it is also very user friendly for very young audience (even 8 or 10 year olds).… Expand
  97. blaow
    Jun 3, 2014
    8
    I was excited when I heard about this game because I hadn't played a so-called 'Metroid-Vania' game in years and had the itch. Not much can satisfy like a good old school branching 2d platformer, so I snatched Dust: An Elysian Tail when it was on sale. It is an excellent game - ASTOUNDING when you consider it was made by one person who had to learn how to code as a first step! I'm notI was excited when I heard about this game because I hadn't played a so-called 'Metroid-Vania' game in years and had the itch. Not much can satisfy like a good old school branching 2d platformer, so I snatched Dust: An Elysian Tail when it was on sale. It is an excellent game - ASTOUNDING when you consider it was made by one person who had to learn how to code as a first step! I'm not taking that fact into account with my review (I'm tough but fair), nevertheless much respect to him for this amazing achievement.

    The biggest pro for me is the fluid and rewarding combat system. Everything is very smooth, the visuals are very entertaining and chaining together a big combo is very satisfying. The enemies towards the beginning are way too easy but as you go there are a few quite challenging enemies starting about halfway through. A tip for anyone with even a passing familiarity with 2d platformers - use at least the tough difficulty setting, otherwise this will be way too easy. The artwork is a highlight. Every environment is beautiful, with multi-level backdrops, beautiful plants, animals and settings. Game pace is good, secret areas are well done. The animation is very good, but Dust himself kind of runs around like he has a stick up his ass. The sound is pretty good. There are also several homages to old games (and I mean OLD, even back to NES games) that I enjoyed more than I thought I would.

    I only have a few minor complaints. First I found the story interesting but the conversations long winded. Probably 25% of the dialogue should have been chopped. It messes with the pacing of an otherwise great story. I think the complaints about Fidget being annoying are overblown. I also wish that there were more weapons to collect besides Fidget's three ammo types, especially since only one was useful. As good as the combat system is, another type of sword or boomerang or SOMETHING would have been nice. My biggest complaint is the amount of trouble I have to go through to get the game working with my Logitech Rumblepad 2. I had to use x360ce to emulate an xbox gamepad. It works great but was a pain to set up.

    That's all! Great game, would definitely recommend. I'm very much looking forward to a sequel, which I'm sure will address some of my minor complaints.    … Expand
  98. Pyromancer
    Jan 7, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is very well made, especially since it's made by one person. A must get for anyone who likes RPG's or brawlers. The art style is very good, and cartoony. The only reason I gave this game a 8 instead of a 10, is because it's only a few hours long. Definitely worth the 15 dollar price.… Expand
  99. Isten
    Feb 26, 2014
    8
    When I want to enjoy a beautiful side slasher and don't feel like playing the sometimes frustrating Bastion, I play DUST. It is well worth picking up. Good story, fun combo combat, easy to learn, hard to "master". Very reminiscent of historically good side scroll action games.
  100. DanySK
    May 12, 2016
    8
    Very nice fast paced action platformer with RPG elements. Despite being a game available also on mobile, the graphics is extremely polished (2D surely helps a lot), and the game is solid and fast also on old systems, and also on not-so-common operating systems (I've played it entirely on Linux). The game can be enjoyed best with a gamepad, I used a Steam Controller and it worked like aVery nice fast paced action platformer with RPG elements. Despite being a game available also on mobile, the graphics is extremely polished (2D surely helps a lot), and the game is solid and fast also on old systems, and also on not-so-common operating systems (I've played it entirely on Linux). The game can be enjoyed best with a gamepad, I used a Steam Controller and it worked like a charm.
    The plot is very enjoyable and the characters lovely (how can't you love Fidget?). The RPG elements are an interesting addition, that keeps the player more interested in the game. There are lots of easter eggs (if you have played Bastion or Fez, keep your eyes open...), and the map that tells you how much you have explored of each area saves the player from wasting lots of time in searching where nothing is present, or from giving up searching bonus and conclude the game.
    Overall, I warmly recommend it.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Best PC Game of 2013
66
#66 Most Discussed PC Game of 2013
79
#79 Most Shared PC Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Sep 19, 2013
    100
    Dust is energetic like a tornado. It has its artistic touch to it. This gem is like the best of the video games history, to shine upon the present days. [Issue#232]
  2. PC Gamer
    Jul 8, 2013
    79
    Highly entertaining, substantial and a visual treat but with a slight whiff of Gorgonzola in the story department.
    Read full review
  3. GameStar
    Jun 6, 2013
    79
    Quotation forthcoming.
    Read full review
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