Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap

 PlayStation 4
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 41 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 41
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 41
  3. Negative: 0 out of 41
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  1. GamePro Germany
    May 21, 2017
    74
    Technically, it's a great remake, but the gameplay hasn't aged well. Still recommended for fans of the genre and gamers with an interest in game history.
  2. COGconnected
    Apr 17, 2017
    73
    Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is a game for Metroidvania fans. If you’re the kind of fan who still plugs in their Nintendo and likes to see what the origins of modern games look like, then pick this up.
  3. IGN
    Apr 17, 2017
    71
    While its antiquated roots cause some minor frustration with unreliable hitboxes and unnecessary grinding, the foundational combat and exploration is still engaging and fun after 30 years. From long-time Wonder Boy fans to platformer enthusiasts who’ve never heard of it until now, you’ll likely be able to find whimsical fun and a neat bit of genre history in this charming adventure.
  5. games(TM)
    Jun 23, 2017
    70
    A gorgeous but sometimes galling nostalgia trip. [Issue#188, p.81]
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  6. GameOver.gr
    May 4, 2017
    70
    It’s a unique mix of a complete overhaul in the graphics and sound department, boasting catchy music and charmingly beautiful visuals, that at the same retains untouched the level design and gameplay of the original. It will not please newcomers but those that grew up in the 8-bit era will surely enjoy the faithfulness of the remake. On another level it’s a great study about the evolvement of the platformer genre and the connection between gameplay and visuals.
  7. Gamer.nl
    Apr 22, 2017
    70
    This game makes the old brand new again. The new style is amazing to look at, and the game is still as amazing as it used to be. Be warned though: the gameplay can be tough to get through.
  8. Easy Allies
    Apr 20, 2017
    70
    For the three to four hours that it lasts, Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is a largely pleasant return to a series that deserves a bit more attention. With that said, although the gorgeous art and the other updates are welcome, the game has too many points of frustration to rise to a truly great level.
  9. Metro GameCentral
    Apr 19, 2017
    70
    One of the best retro remakes there’s ever been, and although the gameplay sometimes shows its age the graphics are amongst the best of the year.
  10. Digital Chumps
    Apr 18, 2017
    70
    The art for the characters and environments are absolutely astounding, but with a dated gameplay style, it’s difficult to say this remake is fully realized. Yes, purists will love that The Dragon’s Trap is a nearly 100% replica of the original with updated art, but I feel as though the love given to the art of the game should have been given to the gameplay as well.
  11. Push Square
    Apr 17, 2017
    70
    Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap is a ruthlessly faithful remake of the Master System classic that boasts a dramatic and beautiful audiovisual makeover. The game itself is still very enjoyable with a world map that's fun to work through and a lean Metroidvania structure that introduces new ideas right to the end. The controls are quite loose, which can lead to some frustration, but by and large this is a wonderful recreation that both fans and newcomers will enjoy.
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  1. Eurogamer
    Apr 18, 2017
    The Dragon's Trap's HD sheen belies the simplistic gameplay of its era, but there's undeniable charm in that simplicity. [Recommended]

Awards & Rankings

81
#81 Best PS4 Game of 2017

User Reviews

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User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 59 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 42 out of 59
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 59
  3. Negative: 8 out of 59
  1. Alecj
    Apr 19, 2017
    9
    Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap is one of the best remakes of a retro game ive ever played. It has been recreated with all new artwork and musicWonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap is one of the best remakes of a retro game ive ever played. It has been recreated with all new artwork and music by a development team that obviously has a love for the source material. It really is top notch work.

    What about the game, you ask?

    Well, as the retro platformer, with light RPG bits, it still is exactly the same game it was when first released. If you liked the original version, you will like this. It does what it does very well. As someone who had never heard of the game, i was quite surprised by how much i liked it. Wonder Boy seems to be a lost gem in this style of game.

    If you arent a retro game fan than this game wont change your mind. It still has some of the flaws of the era. The controls are a tiny bit loose at times, and the platforming isnt for everyone.

    I still feel this game is worthy of the "9" i rated it. It truly is one of the best remakes ive ever seen or played. The game itself is one of the best of its kind from that era. If you are a fan of the genre, you really shouldnt miss it.

    Plus, the great work by developer DOTEMU, should be supported. Its clear they have a great future ahead of them if given the chance.

    A definite must buy for retro fans. A quality curiosity for others. Check it out on youtube if you are unsure, but its worth your time.    … Full Review »
  2. geoxd88
    Jul 20, 2017
    10
    Simply put, the definition of how a remake should be done. The 10 goes to the remake, not the actual game. The actual game is an old schoolSimply put, the definition of how a remake should be done. The 10 goes to the remake, not the actual game. The actual game is an old school classic with all the pros and cons this involves. New players will be left speechless by the design choices of an era long gone, while old players will realise what a long way games have come since then. It's not a bad game by any means, but it is a difficult one to play and a difficult one to appreciate. The remake is fantastic in all aspects, presentation, music, graphics. The fact that you can instantly go back to the old graphics and music (independently) with a press of a button shows that these people actually sat down and thought what a remake means and to whom a remake is targeted. I expect to see more from this team soon.… Full Review »
  3. Paulo-Lameiras
    Jul 19, 2017
    10
    I bought this game for my Master System 2 back then, and bought it now for PS4.

    This remaster is simply brilliant! The visuals are a work    I bought this game for my Master System 2 back then, and bought it now for PS4.

    This remaster is simply brilliant! The visuals are a work of art, the music is good, and i love the option to activate the classic visuals and sound.

    What surprises me the most is how modern the formula and design still feels! Despite being almost 30 years old, it feels as good as any modern indie 2d platformer. Simple, diverse, lots of secret areas, you have to grind in order to get the best items or beat some bosses, etc. My only complain is the hit detection, but then again, devs didn't change anything from the original except visuals and sound.

    All in all, Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap feels as good now as i remember, something not very common. Many games i used to play and love in 8 and 16bit eras didn't age this well. An easy 9/10.    … Full Review »
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