Dead Cells

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 293 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 211 out of 293
  2. Mixed: 48 out of 293
  3. Negative: 34 out of 293
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  1. GBG_Jason
    Aug 7, 2018
    10
    Starting out you’ll see a little pile of goo head to a corpse and reanimate it – this is you. From here you set off to gather your bearings and will likely die before doing anything too grandiose. I managed to make it to the first boss and didn’t stand a chance having no idea what to expect. Eventually you’ll respawn to a room filled with hanging jars that are filled by the runes youStarting out you’ll see a little pile of goo head to a corpse and reanimate it – this is you. From here you set off to gather your bearings and will likely die before doing anything too grandiose. I managed to make it to the first boss and didn’t stand a chance having no idea what to expect. Eventually you’ll respawn to a room filled with hanging jars that are filled by the runes you unlock by giving your Cells to the Collector (no, not the one from Marvel). As the game makes use of the permadeath mechanic so often found in rogue-lites, these serve as the progression you’ll make in the game.

    The game is pretty brutal in difficulty, and the ever changing layout of the map only adds to that as you are never able to memorize how to traverse it. This means there are plenty of secrets to be found, although there are some factors that are pretty standard throughout. In the second area you enter you can safely assume that a timed door can be found by going down the first elevator you encounter. If you happened to make it there quickly enough, there’s a fair amount of rewards to be found, including a trophy/achievement. I actually didn’t manage to do this until I went to the third area with about a minute to spare. The game is full of little things like this catering to all sorts of play styles and encourages trying something new.

    Starting from the beginning you’ll have a sword and the option to choose either a shield or a bow and arrow. Each weapon is tied to a different class which is color coded by red, violet, and green. As you explore you’ll undoubtedly find scrolls that allow you to increase the skills of one of the classes of your choice, which will also upgrade your health. The boosts for each of these will change each time you find them, so perhaps you don’t have any of the survival (green, shield) items, but you really need a health boost – I’ve found myself collecting the 60% health boost over the 31% with a 15% boost to damage of my sword. Each combination of weapons also means a completely different form of playing the game. Whether you end up defending/parrying attacks with green or attacking from a range with purple changes the experience entirely, and I wholeheartedly advise you give both a fair chance. Without a shield you’ll want to get familiar with the dodge mechanic and the proper timing for it, as each enemy has their own tells and abilities. In addition to the three main styles of weaponry, you’ll find tertiary equipment with cooldowns, such as AOE grenades, turrets, traps, among others. These also tie in with the classes, so your choices are pertinent for progression as the enemies grow stronger. If you’re not finding what you want just laying around, you always have the option of buying items from the local merchant.

    The enemies at first glance may look pretty standard, but it doesn’t take long for their designs to become rather intimidating, as well as exceedingly dangerous. Whether they’re teleporting after you until you give in or they drop an assortment of explosives upon death, everything wants to kill you, and they’ll do everything they can to do so. Even the minuscule enemies can be a threat if you’re not paying attention and end up surrounded. Each area has new strategies you have to employ, so be leery when entering the unknown. You are going to die quite often, and that’s okay. It may be frustrating, but the randomness keeps things fresh, and eventually you’ll find some wall chicken and other assorted goods hidden throughout the game to keep you going, along with the upgrades. Honestly, I keep finding things I had no idea about by accident, and it makes me wonder just how much this game has hidden and whether or not everything will be found. There’s plenty of lore to be found in your exploration, and there’s a fair amount of humor which was unexpected, albeit pretty dark.

    On top of the runes you unlock from the Collector, you’ll be granted various abilities from besting the elite enemies which will help you not only traverse different areas and find secrets, but help you progress to new levels. If you find parts of the world that you can interact with but nothing happens, chances are you’ll need to beat one of the bosses or elite enemies first.

    To be quite honest, I’m not sure I ran across anything in the game that I’d say would fault it – even backtracking is a non-issue with so many teleportation devices. The game is about as good as it gets for the genre, and this is a prime example of how you stand out from everything else being released – indie or otherwise. If you’re looking for something that is both challenging and feels good (side note: you can either open doors regularly or bust them open and stun enemies doing so – I’ve never felt so satisfied with a door as having it explode open in this), Dead Cells checks all the boxes.    … Expand
  2. SwitchNoi
    Aug 7, 2018
    10
    I’m very surprised that this game doesn’t have a higher user score. I’m not even necessarily a fan of roguelike games, that is until I played this game. This is one of the best games I’ve played this year. The gameplay is fluid and extremely well done. It’s enjoyable going through the different areas and fighting your way through. I personally don’t have any real criticisms for this gameI’m very surprised that this game doesn’t have a higher user score. I’m not even necessarily a fan of roguelike games, that is until I played this game. This is one of the best games I’ve played this year. The gameplay is fluid and extremely well done. It’s enjoyable going through the different areas and fighting your way through. I personally don’t have any real criticisms for this game so far.… Expand
  3. GamergodsFail
    Aug 9, 2018
    9
    Dead Cells is the first roguelike game I've attempted, and I'm loving it so far. Permadeath is always daunting, but in this game my failures are not discouraging mainly because of how outstanding the gameplay is. Grinding for upgrades across each and every attempt can add repetition, but for those who have great patience as they slowly get better at it will feel an immense sense ofDead Cells is the first roguelike game I've attempted, and I'm loving it so far. Permadeath is always daunting, but in this game my failures are not discouraging mainly because of how outstanding the gameplay is. Grinding for upgrades across each and every attempt can add repetition, but for those who have great patience as they slowly get better at it will feel an immense sense of accomplishment when they succeed.… Expand
  4. CrusaderForever
    Aug 8, 2018
    10
    Wow, this game is rogue-like PERFECTION!! So much fun can be had with this game. The controls are so tight and every death has been my fault. The Sinew Slicer is a great turret. I am loving the graphics for older looking title as well. Gibs, gibs and more gibs is a good thing haha. Working through levels to spend your Cells is so addicting. I am sure there is a lot I don't know andWow, this game is rogue-like PERFECTION!! So much fun can be had with this game. The controls are so tight and every death has been my fault. The Sinew Slicer is a great turret. I am loving the graphics for older looking title as well. Gibs, gibs and more gibs is a good thing haha. Working through levels to spend your Cells is so addicting. I am sure there is a lot I don't know and I am looking forward to playing more today to learn more.… Expand
  5. Gamingteacher
    Aug 30, 2018
    8
    A pretty fun game, very pick-up-and-play-able.

    The good: control is practically orgasmic. gameplay is action-pacted and fun to speed-run. Roguelike levels keep things reasonably fresh. Permanent upgrade system rewards even quick playthroughs. Most weapons are fun to use. Bosses are well designed and animated. The average: music is good but will feel repetitive, especially the first    A pretty fun game, very pick-up-and-play-able.

    The good: control is practically orgasmic. gameplay is action-pacted and fun to speed-run. Roguelike levels keep things reasonably fresh. Permanent upgrade system rewards even quick playthroughs. Most weapons are fun to use. Bosses are well designed and animated.

    The average: music is good but will feel repetitive, especially the first level. Some weapons are less fun to use but can be ignored. Only four bosses, two of which you will always face in a complete run and hence can feel repetitive. Difficulty may turn off some players.

    The bad: some level gimmicks are downright bad. Increased difficulty is mainly done by reducing the ability to heal which is a little cheap.

    Yup. Like this one. Kinda wish I bought it on the switch instead as I think the game would suit a handheld more but I’m told the game runs less well on that platform. Definitely worth a play.    … Expand
  6. zencube
    Nov 9, 2018
    7
    The gameplay itself is absolute great and highly addictive but does not compensate the massive lack of variety itself. There are only 4 bosses to fight and even you've got tons of weapons and stuff to slowly unlock, it just doesn't evaluate the time you'll spend playing. My strongest complain is the final boss, as it's way to hard to beat compared to the levels you run through before theThe gameplay itself is absolute great and highly addictive but does not compensate the massive lack of variety itself. There are only 4 bosses to fight and even you've got tons of weapons and stuff to slowly unlock, it just doesn't evaluate the time you'll spend playing. My strongest complain is the final boss, as it's way to hard to beat compared to the levels you run through before the final fight. And I personally HATE it, when I manage to complete all stages and finally having an A-Hole 5 times harder then the rest of the game! So, you play around one or two hours, just enter this final idiot and get kicked back to the beginning within a few seconds.

    Dear developer! Do you really expect your players to invest at least one hour of doing all those levels again and again, just to get fckd up by a boss within seconds, not even able to learn all the moves this thing does?! I finally ended up killing the game just after I died, so I could enter this boss fight right after starting the game again. And it took me many many attempts to kick his ass - if I would add an extra hour to every attempt, dudes, you certainly should consider changing something in your design! This unbalanced boss-fight(s) and also some random encounters who will kill you in just a few seconds are totally frustrating and imagine a dark souls, where you have to start allover at the FIRST bonfire....

    Maybe they'll add more content, and tweak some of the mechanics as well. For me, I'm done with the game as there's nothing left but browsing through the levels and being totally frustrated by the last boss - to complete the run! I did beat him twice, but it's just way too much time being wasted...    … Expand
  7. globe199
    Nov 10, 2019
    10
    It's a good title, but very difficult. I recommend picking it up if you want to play a difficult roguelike-metroidvania type of game.
  8. TredZ
    Sep 7, 2018
    8
    Good game, I spent a lot of time on this one. When you have 30-60mins and don't know what to play...launch this game!

    I got the 2 cells boss quickly but when you play in 2 cells mode, it is a lot, lot, lot harder than 1-cell mode. Maybe it is a too big step? You will have to farm to loot more powerful weapons and upgrade them, it's not really fun. I played less. The difficulty is    Good game, I spent a lot of time on this one. When you have 30-60mins and don't know what to play...launch this game!

    I got the 2 cells boss quickly but when you play in 2 cells mode, it is a lot, lot, lot harder than 1-cell mode.
    Maybe it is a too big step? You will have to farm to loot more powerful weapons and upgrade them, it's not really fun. I played less.
    The difficulty is mostly done by adjusting the number of life-refill you got while playing.
    Music is perfect and the gameplay is better than perfect :)    … Expand
  9. Professorfett
    Aug 14, 2018
    8
    Dead Cells is like Groundhog Day if Bill Murray got better at killing instead of learning to be a better person. Dead Cells is though a Metroidvania hack and slash game at its core, but it is so much more than that. In more of a nefarious way.

    The story of Dead Cells is... I honestly am not a 100% what it is. You are a reanimated corpse that is in a jail/morgue and you're alive for    Dead Cells is like Groundhog Day if Bill Murray got better at killing instead of learning to be a better person. Dead Cells is though a Metroidvania hack and slash game at its core, but it is so much more than that. In more of a nefarious way.

    The story of Dead Cells is... I honestly am not a 100% what it is. You are a reanimated corpse that is in a jail/morgue and you're alive for reasons. Truth time I didn't really pay that close attention to the story so if it is deep or nuance story that I have to figure out I apologise for not seeing it. All I know is you're back to kicks some name and take some ass, or something of that sort.

    The gameplay is the reason to play this game. Like I said it is a Metroidvania style game, but if you die it takes a page from old school games and you start all the way over. Now that sounds like a living hell, but it's better trust me. All the powerups you get during your life are carried over to the next making the beginning areas a walk in the park. The levels you go to are also procedurally generated so no run will feel the same. It will be similar mind you because dark gray dungeons all start looking the same. The game is very addictive because you go through the levels so quickly and the simple hack and slash just feels so nice when you dodge and attack an enemy. Like Castlevania you also get sub weapons you must find to gain an edge. They vary from portable turrets to ice grenades. I say the game is a hack and slash, but you could play it very ranged if you'd like. Each life you find these level up that improve melee, ranged, or sub weapons. This lets you decide your play style in each life.

    I was trying to get myself to check out a couple of indie games a month so I wasn't only looking at Triple A games. I have to say Dead Cells is a great boost of confidence in that decision. The game is hard, but rewarding. The game is extremely addictive with the just one more time mentality you get while playing. If you are looking for a challenge in a game and love old school mechanics Dead Cells is for you. I give it a BUY.    … Expand
  10. Pringled
    Aug 7, 2018
    10
    Amazing roguelike game. I havn't had a roguelike feeling like this since The Binding of Isaac, or a platformer experience like this since Ori and the Blind Forest. The game feels extremely polished with lot's of little details, secret areas and unlocks. I love how there is a sense of progression with the permanent unlocks system. If you die, you basically lose everything (as it should beAmazing roguelike game. I havn't had a roguelike feeling like this since The Binding of Isaac, or a platformer experience like this since Ori and the Blind Forest. The game feels extremely polished with lot's of little details, secret areas and unlocks. I love how there is a sense of progression with the permanent unlocks system. If you die, you basically lose everything (as it should be in any good roguelike). However, after beating an area you can unlock some permanent upgrade that you start with after dying. The combat is fluent, the artstyle is great but most importantly the game is very challenging. Any roguelike fan should buy this.… Expand
  11. djdnauk
    Aug 10, 2018
    7
    funny how this game is rated lowest on PS4 despite its specs, its a great little game in the same vein as moonlighter, enter the gungeon, wizard of legend etc... maybe a little over hyped compared to the others! and i have no idea why there so much difference between review scores but id prefer all these games on switch just so you can play them in portable mode... dont think the PS4funny how this game is rated lowest on PS4 despite its specs, its a great little game in the same vein as moonlighter, enter the gungeon, wizard of legend etc... maybe a little over hyped compared to the others! and i have no idea why there so much difference between review scores but id prefer all these games on switch just so you can play them in portable mode... dont think the PS4 version deserves such low ratings compared to the others though, theres nothing wrong with it as such, if anything its only the switch version that should score higher because it is portable.… Expand
  12. Sabith1
    Aug 7, 2018
    9
    Best rougelite 2d sidescrolling gameplay experience i have played it is kinda hard if you dont like harder games i would avoid
  13. Youmustdienow
    Aug 15, 2018
    9
    Disliked this game after playing 30 mins of it, but boy did my opinion change after discovering the hook & nuances it had to offer. Don’t be like me expecting Dark Souls 2D. This game is better than Souls because it is constantly encouraging you to try new gear rather than commit to a strict class. I see Dead Cells as a new type of arcade style game where you can play for a few mintutes toDisliked this game after playing 30 mins of it, but boy did my opinion change after discovering the hook & nuances it had to offer. Don’t be like me expecting Dark Souls 2D. This game is better than Souls because it is constantly encouraging you to try new gear rather than commit to a strict class. I see Dead Cells as a new type of arcade style game where you can play for a few mintutes to countless hrs. If arcades were still big, this would be some next level stuff.… Expand
  14. ujinroth
    Aug 19, 2018
    5
    In my personal opinion this game is too short, not enough bosses (only 4), not enough interesting synergies between weapons, very repetitive stages configurations. All of it makes me think it really was a metroidvania project that they turned into a roguelite only because of it's low content. Giving an 8 is way too much for half of a game.
  15. samside
    Jul 19, 2020
    0
    Awful game and community. Do not recommend to anyone. There are many better rouge lite games out there. This is just poor man's dark souls
  16. Goo4you
    Aug 10, 2018
    5
    To give an even (but of course downvoted to oblivion) look on Dead Cells, I can sum it up only as such:

    Change the title to "Gameplay: the game that is all about the gameplay." I need more from a video game than simple tight controls, combat, loot collection. For me, all those things are tools to be used for making a quality video game. If your game though is nothing but solid    To give an even (but of course downvoted to oblivion) look on Dead Cells, I can sum it up only as such:

    Change the title to "Gameplay: the game that is all about the gameplay."

    I need more from a video game than simple tight controls, combat, loot collection. For me, all those things are tools to be used for making a quality video game. If your game though is nothing but solid gameplay and lacks ANYTHING else (and don't give me there's a story here, there isn't. There's an excuse), then it's a tech demo devs use to sell a project.

    Dead Cells is a tech demo for an actual video game.

    Somehow either the devs have regressed into the 80's mindset of game design (hard, simple premise, focus on the mechanics) or we the audience have just given up and will play anything in front of us new that's shiny.

    If you want to play a game where the most significant feat is button pressing, Dead Cells is for you. If though you are holding out for games with content beyond mechanics, wait for something else.    … Expand
  17. Goat_punishment
    May 28, 2019
    1
    Game just crushed and I lost all of my savefiles. Good job, developers. It's crazy how you can play a game, and lost all of your progress immediately. And I could have said about some gameplay stuff, but I don't want to. Overrated piece of ****
  18. Cells_R_Dead
    Aug 7, 2018
    5
    Those people who claim this game to be in the same category as the Souls series are clearly mistaken.That's why is bought it.DC are nothing like them.Why? well you get to keep your loot in DS for one. Sure you die a lot. But all the buffs and upgrades you get to keep on the easier difficulties. Just like the gear you find along the way. This gives you the incentive to replay over and overThose people who claim this game to be in the same category as the Souls series are clearly mistaken.That's why is bought it.DC are nothing like them.Why? well you get to keep your loot in DS for one. Sure you die a lot. But all the buffs and upgrades you get to keep on the easier difficulties. Just like the gear you find along the way. This gives you the incentive to replay over and over again. DC does not. Personally i don't mind the grinding part. What i don't like is that i don't get to keep anything that i find if i die. And does a small game like this even need loading time? Com on!. The souls games are one of its kind. Nothing will ever be like them. And when it comes to DC its ok at best. Personally i regret buying it. They should have made it possible to play a demo before you purchase. To me this game just feel like you are rewarded for speedruns not for time spent on exploration. The developers should have taken the guys that love spending time exploring every nook and cranny into account as well. Made it possible to choose like a exploration-mode. Cause i don't care about achievements or timed records. No i've spent 20$ on this game so naturally i want the fun part as well.Now Im certain this was all in vein cause i'm not going to finish it as it's not really that much fun. I've finished all the souls games and Bloodborne as well.Those games are worth every penny. One more thing that i feel is important with my time is that i can save my progress. Not everyone has the luxury to spend or waste 10ths of hours just to get to the next level. Its a shame that a gorgeous game like this ache so much. Be aware. This is not like the Souls Series!… Expand
  19. IIIAHMIII
    Nov 12, 2021
    4
    It's way to hard to tell the difference if your getting hit close up or not. Making it nearly impossible tot do the bosses without getting hit. Who on earth thought this was a good idea for such a game. Also the farming is the biggest cancer i have ever seen. Last pixel art game for me.
  20. Red-Eyes
    Oct 7, 2020
    6
    First things first: this game is a roguelike action game, it has no elements to be called a metroidvania (go watch Ingenious Clown ytube video about it if you wanna know more). With that out of the way the action sections (the combat) are awesome! It's a constant barrage of enemies and the adrenaline rush is surreal when your reflex skills are tested everytime, there are so many weapons,First things first: this game is a roguelike action game, it has no elements to be called a metroidvania (go watch Ingenious Clown ytube video about it if you wanna know more). With that out of the way the action sections (the combat) are awesome! It's a constant barrage of enemies and the adrenaline rush is surreal when your reflex skills are tested everytime, there are so many weapons, sub-weapons and weapon types that the combat never feels old; the very nature of a roguelike might force you to choose a different tool for the job each run making it fresh every time.
    But the roguelike aspect is also the main flaw. The idea of a random generated level is **** Instead of having a thoughtful level design with good platforming and stuff you just gonna charge a random algorithm to do the job instead. That's ludicrous! As a result the levels are boring, the platforming is super flat and besides the excellent combat there is nothing else.
    I also dislike having only 4 bosses. In a game like this there should be a boss at the end of each level.
    I finished the game once but I have no desire to complete the weaponry, get every item let alone getting platinum and the random level design is the sole reason why    … Expand
  21. Bruiser69
    Mar 24, 2021
    1
    Would have likely been 7-8 stars if not for permadeath. Not a fan of endless repeats.
  22. Azel
    Nov 27, 2019
    9
    The combat is slick and responsive, there are tonnes of weapons with unique animations, tonnes of gadgets, traps, bombs etc, and you combine your abilities as you find them in each of your play throughs through procedurally generated dungeons. This offers a lot of variety and replayability, especially as there are so many different enemy types too. There has been free DLC added which isThe combat is slick and responsive, there are tonnes of weapons with unique animations, tonnes of gadgets, traps, bombs etc, and you combine your abilities as you find them in each of your play throughs through procedurally generated dungeons. This offers a lot of variety and replayability, especially as there are so many different enemy types too. There has been free DLC added which is such a nice touch, especially given the small team who worked on it. I played the game easily for 30 hours, and could get more out of it. You can customize your runs to stipulate particular weapons etc, to tweak the random elements of the game if you want. I would say that the game would benefit from even more biomes than there are, but for the price that it has, it's an absolute bargain, lasting me as long as so called AAA games.… Expand
  23. Bolkie
    Sep 23, 2018
    10
    Dead Cells is turning out to be one of my favourite games of all time.
    I'm always interested in games that are hyped, and in the case of this game it is deserved. Never encountered a game with such replayability and even when you die, you really want to start again.
    Many levels are randomized so they are never the same. Even though a death = start again, it's never futile as you do level    Dead Cells is turning out to be one of my favourite games of all time.
    I'm always interested in games that are hyped, and in the case of this game it is deserved. Never encountered a game with such replayability and even when you die, you really want to start again.
    Many levels are randomized so they are never the same. Even though a death = start again, it's never futile as you do level up every time you play.
    The choice of weapons (one in each hand, usually sword/whip/bow and variants of these weapons) and skills (two different skill: a huge variety) makes every outing exciting. The art is wonderful.
    Lots of different enemies. When you fight them you learn their moves and you get a grasp of which weapons are best for the different enemies. When there is a huge variety of weapons and stuff in a game I usually lose track: but not in this game.
    Try this game, you won't regret.    … Expand
  24. Hermaeus
    Nov 29, 2018
    10
    I don't like pixel art. I don't especially care for roguelikes. And yet, I have to say Dead Cells is straight-up awesome. From the fast, fluid gameplay, to the wide array of weapons (and different ways to approach combat), to a soundtrack I kept playing long after I was done with the game, this is one of the greatest indies I've played, period. Tons of secrets, too. All around excellent.
  25. Kargun
    Jan 28, 2019
    8
    Hace todo lo que se le pide a un roguelike muy bien y en ese aspecto no innova, pero, a diferencia de otros, logra que todas las runs te parezcan provechosas gracias a su sistema de progresión. Poco a poco las opciones que están al alcance del personaje van mejorando al mismo tiempo que tu mejoras como jugador.
  26. rpardono
    Aug 4, 2019
    9
    Jogo fantástico, excepcional, muito original, muitas horas garantidas de jogatina e diversão!
  27. Wander22
    Feb 17, 2019
    8
    Gameplay/Mechanics: 8.5
    Sound/Music: 8
    Graphics/Art: 8.5
    Story/Atmosphere: 8.5
    OVERALL: 8.4/10
  28. zGoldenOG
    Nov 9, 2019
    8
    Excelente jogo,muito fluído e divertido,porém o fator "zerar e rezerar" pode tirar um pouco o gosto do game. Basicamente você zera ele uma vez,mata um boss,pega uma célula desse boss,ai você usa essa célula para deixar o jogo um pouco mais dificil...ai voce repete o processo,mata o boss,pega outra célula dele e a usa para deixar mais dificil ainda...são umas 8 células. Boa Sorte.
  29. destinyfan1
    Aug 31, 2018
    9
    Amazing roguelike game,the art style is pretty,their is tons of hours to be had in this game,i am not even a fan of this genre,juli and august where really boring months in gaming,so i saw the reviews,and then i saw dead cells,and o boy it is the best decision i made this summer
    Really don't be afraid,this game isn't very hard,but it isn't easy either,but the upgrades and unlockables make    Amazing roguelike game,the art style is pretty,their is tons of hours to be had in this game,i am not even a fan of this genre,juli and august where really boring months in gaming,so i saw the reviews,and then i saw dead cells,and o boy it is the best decision i made this summer
    Really don't be afraid,this game isn't very hard,but it isn't easy either,but the upgrades and unlockables make this game so fun.    … Expand
  30. harlota
    Feb 29, 2020
    10
    It's one of the most addictive games I've ever played. Extremely fluid action and clever risk-reward system.
  31. Mindurbidniss
    May 24, 2022
    2
    Addictive but incredibly overhyped. 2d Dark Souls. Incredibly frustrating due to the style of game it is. The combat can be fun but a lackluster story and enemy types make it boring before long. Then again I'm just not a fan of these groundhogs day games.
  32. Joyoviews
    Oct 19, 2018
    9
    A subtle nod to those games of yesteryear where hand holding and constant checkpoints didn't exist, Dead cells will bring back the challenge of wanting to uncover its story through exploration and "getting good" rather than simply pushing you along and adjusting difficulty to suit certain play styles.
    Starting off as almost literally nothing you eventually uncover and obtain new abilites    A subtle nod to those games of yesteryear where hand holding and constant checkpoints didn't exist, Dead cells will bring back the challenge of wanting to uncover its story through exploration and "getting good" rather than simply pushing you along and adjusting difficulty to suit certain play styles.
    Starting off as almost literally nothing you eventually uncover and obtain new abilites as you go making each subsequent playthrough a different experience everytime throw in randomly generated areas and abilities to open new and more interesting paths and you have a game that full of surprises and rewards for you efforts.
    With satisfying and challenging combat and its exploration playstyle you could compare this game to many metroidvania type games with a dark souls combat twist.
    Master its difficulty or try for the best times i recommend you give it a try.    … Expand
  33. korksz
    Mar 7, 2021
    10
    I just need one word to describe what I feel about this game: FUN!
    Even though I die a "thousand" times it somehow manages to not make it frustrating. This is a game where a death really feels like progress towards the final boss.
    After playing a ton of AAA games filled with fake content where I usually feel that it's a chore going through the whole game, Dead Cells does something I    I just need one word to describe what I feel about this game: FUN!
    Even though I die a "thousand" times it somehow manages to not make it frustrating. This is a game where a death really feels like progress towards the final boss.

    After playing a ton of AAA games filled with fake content where I usually feel that it's a chore going through the whole game, Dead Cells does something I can't express in words. This is a game. A GAME! Not an annual cash grab, not another story-telling, not another digital world filled with a thousand outposts to capture, just a game focused on giving you pure enjoyment. The combat system, the variety of weapons and gadgets to use and combine together and the flow keeps me wanting to do just one more run. And just one more. And just one more... I highly recommend it to anyone. And I mean really anyone. This is my first roguelite and to be honest, just looking at gameplay videos I felt that it may not be made for me. Considering the praise it got I gave it a shot despite not really liking what I had saw before... aaaand I was wrong. Totally wrong. I absolutely love it.    … Expand
  34. DotakuReview101
    Aug 23, 2020
    8
    Before I get into the...story and gameplay let me tell you this game looks great. If you love stylish pixel art then you will adore this game's visuals because it has plenty of that goin on.Seriously I'm not always the biggest fan of pixel art, I don’t dislike it I just don’t prefer it and I loved the pixel art on display here. One of the best out there as far as I’m concerned.

    When it    Before I get into the...story and gameplay let me tell you this game looks great. If you love stylish pixel art then you will adore this game's visuals because it has plenty of that goin on.Seriously I'm not always the biggest fan of pixel art, I don’t dislike it I just don’t prefer it and I loved the pixel art on display here. One of the best out there as far as I’m concerned.

    When it comes to the story honestly I don’t really know what the plot is supposed to be and I don’t really have the motivation to dive deep into the lore like I do the Dark Souls series. That said from what I can tell from the bits of lore I did find, the Island is engulfed by something called The Malaise that twists its inhabitants and seems to be the reason our protag is now trapped in a seemingly endless loop of death. That could be totally off base but it’s what I could gather, either way the lore does allow for a darkly fun world to explore so I’d say it doesn’t really matter. The lore is there if you care to dig deep into it.

    Now gameplay wise, like I said some have called it a soulslike and there are some aspects where I suppose that is sort of true. It has very difficult combat revolving around a dodge mechanic, it has healing flasks, you can regain health from hitting enemies like in Bloodborne, ext so yeah if you are a Soulsborne fan there is definitely some familiar stuff here that said unlike Soulsborne this game at its core is a punishing Roguelite with constant dying and restarting from the beginning alongside randomized level layouts and enemy placements.
    You gradually obtain permanent unlocks like new mutations that give certain benefits for that specific run and more healing flasks so there is that at least. About the only thing I really really didn’t like was getting dizzy from falling from too high a height, I found that more annoying than anything.

    Personally I don’t usually enjoy these kinds of games, I don’t mind dying and being sent back a bit in games like Dark Souls but I just don’t enjoy constantly being sent back to the very beginning. That said there are exceptions to the rule like Rogue Legend and honestly Dead Cells. Yeah I actually found myself quite enjoying this one. Maybe it was the tight combat, the beautifully creepy aesthetic, the Soulslike mechanics or all of the above but I legit had a good time with this one and even found myself being slightly addicted. I have decided against number rankings from this point on because I feel they are just a little too...played out and I also don’t really love them. So instead I decided on this grading system for games ranging from Instant Classic to as low as avoid at all costs. That said I will put this game firmly in the recommended category. I wouldn’t call it a must play as it has a lot of niche aspects but it’s definitely worth trying if you are even remotely curious.    … Expand
  35. MEMESAREPEOPLE
    Jan 27, 2020
    10
    Dead Cells takes the art of death of video games and puts it on its head, with each run making you stronger until you are able to take on the final boss. While this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this idea, its a brilliant mix of classic Dark Souls-esque difficulty with fluid 2D Metroidvania action.

    In terms of story, you are a prisoner who is reanimated with the fate of traversing an    Dead Cells takes the art of death of video games and puts it on its head, with each run making you stronger until you are able to take on the final boss. While this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this idea, its a brilliant mix of classic Dark Souls-esque difficulty with fluid 2D Metroidvania action.

    In terms of story, you are a prisoner who is reanimated with the fate of traversing an island of unique environments, dying, and learning from death to get farther than you did last time, until you reach the final boss. While there isn’t much in terms of story upfront, the optional lore rooms are genuinely interesting and sometimes even grant you items or food to benefit you during your run, so there’s good reason to visit these.

    Dead Cells is a game where death is almost guaranteed to any gamer on their first run. You will die, a lot. However, its death that keeps you going and drives you forward. After every death, you come back with a valuable upgrade, a powerful new weapon or ability, or even knowledge of the foes you’re facing. The progression feels as if no run is ever wasted, ever, and each run inches you closer to the final boss, until you beat the final boss. However, the fun doesn’t stop there, as there are FIVE more playthroughs of New Game +, each with increasing difficulty to keep you progressing forward. Initially, exploration in Dead Cells is limited to what you can reach with a double jump, or with an elevator. However, progressing far enough will unlock you upgrades that will allow you to explore anywhere that can be explored, and you’ll be rewarded for it too, with either currency, or equipment you can either use or sell.

    Dead Cells is very flexible in its gameplay, with almost any possible playstyle being applicable here. You can be a speedy whirlwind of death, killing all that stands in your way. Or you can play it slow with turrets, traps, and slower weapons. Or you can avoid all combat entirely if you wish to reach a timed door, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the enemies. Most of the weapons and abilities in the game are up to the task to fit almost any playstyle. Dead Cells uses the design where if you’re skilled enough, you’re an untouchable whirlwind of death, thanks to the usage of dodge rolling and/or shield parrying.

    Dead Cells turns death into a lesson, or a stepping stone to the final boss, instead of a reason to rage-quit or to get frustrated. Take this with engrossing, difficult, flexible, and fluid 2D gameplay, and procedurally generated maps, and you have a game that will satisfy any Metroidvania fan.    … Expand
  36. Eyes_Grim
    Jan 26, 2021
    5
    At first, the game appeared to be addictive and promising, but over time I noticed you can only happen to 6 short levels and 3 bosses per run.
    Graphics is really poor, soundtracks are disappointing
    There is no way you can carry over your gear and abilities to a successive run. The lack of checkpoint system also induces unnecessary stress. It is an alright title if you catch it on sale, but    At first, the game appeared to be addictive and promising, but over time I noticed you can only happen to 6 short levels and 3 bosses per run.
    Graphics is really poor, soundtracks are disappointing
    There is no way you can carry over your gear and abilities to a successive run. The lack of checkpoint system also induces unnecessary stress.
    It is an alright title if you catch it on sale, but definately not worth it at full price.    … Expand
  37. Amorris17
    Nov 26, 2019
    8
    Great time killer. Fun and fast. A bit too hard for my old reflexes with a few cells active.
  38. Crysouls
    Dec 2, 2022
    7
    Prós:
    - Jogabilidade
    - Direção de arte - Level design - Diversidade de armas - Muito conteúdo adicionado por att Contras: - Progressão extremamente lenta - Repetição massiva/exaustiva - Trilha sonora Conclusão: Roguelike divertido porém sua progressão lenta atrapalha bastante a vontade de seguir com game, após minha primeira run bem sucedida e varias repetições em sequencia    Prós:
    - Jogabilidade
    - Direção de arte
    - Level design
    - Diversidade de armas
    - Muito conteúdo adicionado por att

    Contras:
    - Progressão extremamente lenta
    - Repetição massiva/exaustiva
    - Trilha sonora

    Conclusão: Roguelike divertido porém sua progressão lenta atrapalha bastante a vontade de seguir com game, após minha primeira run bem sucedida e varias repetições em sequencia enfrentando os mesmos inimigos, sem um enredo que sustente a jornada e motive o jogador como em Hades, vejo dead cells como um bom jogo com diversas armas e formas de derrotar os inimigos, varios upgrades para progressão mas o meio de se alcançar toda essa vasta diversidade de gameplay é cansativa, diria que o jogo é ótimo para poucas runs mas pra quem procura repetição atrás de repetição se torna enjoativo e pouco recompensador, no geral é um excelente roguelike porém com uma execução contraditória a proposta do gênero.    … Expand
  39. KunderscoreKing
    Jun 21, 2020
    8
    Dead Cells, I love the fight, learn, die, repeat game play.

    After finally reaching the end and discovering how expansive this game is, I was in awe.
  40. Burattix54
    Jun 26, 2020
    6
    It is a good Rouguelike, but I didn't enjoy it much. It is hard, I get it. It took me a while to complete it the first time. The scaling after that point is, however, ridiculous. At only 2 boss cells the first floor gets invaded by endgame enemies which teleport, fly, go invisible, and ALWAYS oneshot you, etc... And there's like 7 of them per room. It feels like artificial difficultyIt is a good Rouguelike, but I didn't enjoy it much. It is hard, I get it. It took me a while to complete it the first time. The scaling after that point is, however, ridiculous. At only 2 boss cells the first floor gets invaded by endgame enemies which teleport, fly, go invisible, and ALWAYS oneshot you, etc... And there's like 7 of them per room. It feels like artificial difficulty because this game has dozens of mechanics which involve never being hit in 60+ minute runs, such as taking away almost all of your healing potions at higher difficulties. It's way too much, it requires speedrunner levels of precision and reflexes just to get to the last ending, which also blocks off most of the DLC's.

    Also, little note, the bosses aren't as great as, for example, hollow knight. They are kinda spammy and annoying, and there's very few of them.

    I almost never get annoyed by hard games, actually I love them, but just finishing this game is harder then the DmC5 platinum. I didn't get past the third BC    … Expand
  41. tariq_almandhar
    Jun 12, 2022
    9
    المهم هو الأسلوب وطريقة اللعب وهذا ما أُُتقن في اللعبة
    صعوبة للتحدي والمتعة وطريقة لعب مناسبة
  42. Walterjunior
    Oct 29, 2020
    10
    Great game, 2d graphics amazing... on The best style metroidvania, i like it
  43. GeekFusion
    Aug 31, 2020
    8
    Being immortal is harder then you think.

    I’m not really an Indie game type of person I prefer Triple A titles much more, so when I saw Dead Cells on Xbox Game Pass, I wasn’t really too intrigued but thought I would give it a go. I have never been more hooked by a game after playing it for 5 minutes then I was with Dead Cells. You are thrown straight in then left to understand the    Being immortal is harder then you think.

    I’m not really an Indie game type of person I prefer Triple A titles much more, so when I saw Dead Cells on Xbox Game Pass, I wasn’t really too intrigued but thought I would give it a go.

    I have never been more hooked by a game after playing it for 5 minutes then I was with Dead Cells. You are thrown straight in then left to understand the mechanics and combat by yourself. The entire premise of Dead Cells is that you cannot die so if you fail you restart the entire game, a thing I have had to do many times. However as you play you reach what are essentially checkpoints where you can make permanent upgrades to your character. These will help you get further and further through the game every time that you die and have to restart.

    There were 3 things that kept me coming back to this game: the combat, the ever changing level design and the music. So first the combat: The combat in this game is incredible there is so much variety with weapon choices and play styles it makes the experience fun for anyone that wants to play it. The variety of enemies in each area also make for a fresh challenge in every new area, and even when you have played the game enough to know which enemies are coming it still isn’t easy as they are usually around so many other types of enemies you have to be very strategic in your approach to combat.

    The ever changing level design makes the usually mundane task of trudging through levels you have already completed new and exciting, as well as always challenging as a new enemy assortment populates the new levels. Having permanent upgrades such as the random starting sword also helps with keeping the game feel fresh and never making you feel as though you are simple just going through the same areas over and over again.

    Another way this game always manages to feel fresh is through having permanent upgrades that will make the game easier not matter how many times you have to retry it you will always find it easier the next time as you have new tools at your disposal.

    Even the art style of this game never manages to get old, with customisable costumes to make your character unique. The flashy visuals mixed with the incredible score for this game mean that no matter how many times you are replaying it you can always find some joy in it.

    However, as much as this game does so many incredible things to make it feel new and fresh every single time, it does become frustrating as you are just playing the same bits over and over again. I found this particularly obvious on days where I would play the game for longer periods as even though the maps do change every time, there are still things that remain the same and reinforce to the player that you are just restarting the whole game every time you die. And when you are dying continuously through long playthroughs the game starts to be aggravating as it is very difficult, but it is clear this is a game where the more time you put into it, the easier it will get.

    Dead Cells: 8/10    … Expand
  44. hector_bcn98
    Jun 18, 2023
    9
    Adictivo y difícil como pocos juegos he completado, si se quiere es un juego inacabable, con infinitas runs y descubrimientos constantes de objetos, caminos, mejoras y bosses. Además, está siempre tirado de precio, así como sus dlc's. Compra obligada para cualquier gamer hardcore que quiera romper su mando contra la pared.
  45. MrShava97
    Dec 4, 2020
    1
    В первые часы игра кажется интересной. Но когда по прошествии времени, ты проходишь одну и ту же локацию по многу раз, где одни и те же NPC, когда дерешься с одними и теми же боссами, игра становится скучной. Из оружия, мутаций выбираешь только что-то одно, остальное не более чем, бесполезный мусор. Мое финальное прохождение заняло около 50 минут, после чего я с радостью удалил даннуюВ первые часы игра кажется интересной. Но когда по прошествии времени, ты проходишь одну и ту же локацию по многу раз, где одни и те же NPC, когда дерешься с одними и теми же боссами, игра становится скучной. Из оружия, мутаций выбираешь только что-то одно, остальное не более чем, бесполезный мусор. Мое финальное прохождение заняло около 50 минут, после чего я с радостью удалил данную "игру".… Expand
  46. bpgould1994
    Jan 21, 2021
    10
    The first thing that I must say to start this review is that Dead Cells is a amazing roguelike Dungeon crawler. That has not been getting as much attention as it should for how many different ways the game can be played and the comp updates it enough to keep the experience fresh and different
  47. Superpurdik
    Feb 10, 2021
    10
    This game reminded me awesome experience from youth playing sega, one of few that gives you such a competition inside an interesting new original world, variety of play style. Dead cells are definitely forever in my game library on all types of game devices, must play!
  48. zohar098765
    Apr 13, 2021
    8
    hyjxgfffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffjxhyfffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffx
  49. Korova11
    Feb 16, 2022
    10
    Best game ever. Pure love, favorite rouglike. Cant wait for more dlc, worth all money
  50. oliodyssey
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    How can someone score this game Zero. There most be something wrong in their head or they have other intentions. I have played more hours than many AAA games and the android version is also great. And the amount of fun is phenominal. It is Roguelike so takes a bit of getting used to. It has great sound track and addictive gameplay. I would rate it 8 or 9 but have to give it a 10 for itsHow can someone score this game Zero. There most be something wrong in their head or they have other intentions. I have played more hours than many AAA games and the android version is also great. And the amount of fun is phenominal. It is Roguelike so takes a bit of getting used to. It has great sound track and addictive gameplay. I would rate it 8 or 9 but have to give it a 10 for its pure and beautiful uniqueness. And why give it a Zero????? Try out the Android version first if you can get it for free or on Play Pass give it 2 or 3 hours.… Expand
  51. WeterGhetto
    Sep 1, 2022
    9
    Классная игра в жанре рогалик, в которой отличная атмосфера, музыка, геймплей, но вскоре надоедает проходить одни и те же миссии в каждой поставленной клетке( На 4 клетке у меня кое-что сгорело) Всем удачи в прохождении!
  52. Julio-FR
    Feb 10, 2022
    10
    El juegos esta buenisimo, ya lo probe en steam y en teclado no me gusto tanto pero en mando de ps4 me encanto.
    Lo recomiendo para los que le guste la dificultad
  53. Yojimbo2015
    Jan 25, 2023
    7
    Visually sumptuous rogue-like 2D platformer with gorgeous retro graphics and loads of power-ups and secrets to discover.
  54. rccastro0711
    Feb 22, 2023
    9
    i played 30 minutes and it turned into one of my favorite games. The soundtrack, the controls, the tension and combat against some enemies and bosses, everything its just perfect ( I even dowloaded thee soundtrack),and who cannot like the fact that basically many other indie games are present here from Hotline miami, curse of dead gods, shovel and holo knight, my heart love to see all ofi played 30 minutes and it turned into one of my favorite games. The soundtrack, the controls, the tension and combat against some enemies and bosses, everything its just perfect ( I even dowloaded thee soundtrack),and who cannot like the fact that basically many other indie games are present here from Hotline miami, curse of dead gods, shovel and holo knight, my heart love to see all of this. The only thing I disliked is the fact that there isn't a saving mechanic, so you cant quit in the middle of the game, if it had that, this game would be a 10… Expand
  55. Daviwaru
    Mar 19, 2023
    10
    Um dos melhores rogue likes já feitos, que também mistura uma mecânica com metroidvanias
  56. douglastutmes
    Mar 22, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. É um bom jogo, o único problema é a aleatoriedade dos itens, por mais que você tenha uma boa tática, você fica dependendo dos itens que deseja aparecerem, se não aparecerem, tem que se virar.

    Seria bom se houvesse um modo que jogássemos todas as fases até o fim.
    Atualmente está com bug no modo personalizado no Play 5 impedindo de ganhar troféus.
    É um bom jogo, mas se não quer gastar muito tempo rejogando inúmeras vezes, não jogue.    … Expand
  57. Rubber_DUCKYY
    May 22, 2023
    9
    This is the first game in a long time that has made me genuinely excited to play it. Whenever I pick this game up the hours just fly by. Worth EVERY dollar. First rougelite I've ever played, so definite a must play for everyone.

Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best PS4 Game of 2018
50
#50 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2018
41
#41 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2018

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Digital Trends
    Jan 23, 2019
    80
    Dead Cells is frenetism in its purest form, and one of the few games in the genre that can grant a sense of progression and skill in the first few minutes, without demanding a grind from the player or a slow-paced levelling system. It takes you in with a powerful soundtrack and a gorgeous visual style, but it’s the combat and how quick and responsive the controls are that make it stand out from the rest.
    Read full review
  2. Gamers Heroes
    Aug 23, 2018
    90
    Dead Cells sets an example for the rest of the industry as far as Metroidvanias are concerned. If Dead Cells sounds even remotely interesting to you, pick it up and give it a go.
    Read full review
  3. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Aug 23, 2018
    90
    You often learn by dying, yet this somehow never feels unfair. Compelling and endlessly replayable, the quality of Dead Cells is unlikely to cause division among your friends. [Issue#153, p.94]
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