User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 172 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 15 out of 172
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  1. Apr 19, 2017
    9
    Really great port of a retro game. If you look at the gaming mechanics with current standards they fall short in many ways though... I have the 9 for being an almost perfect retro port. If you compare the game with new jump'n runs like Rayman Legends it would only be a 5 or 6 in my opinion.
  2. Apr 19, 2017
    9
    Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap was one of those games on the Sega Master System that even back 30 years ago, you knew was special. However, this version implores gamers to ask the age-old question, do retro games really need to be remade? The answer is yes and no. Nevertheless, before we begin our argument as to why this game is so damn charming and incredible, let’s look a few thingsWonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap was one of those games on the Sega Master System that even back 30 years ago, you knew was special. However, this version implores gamers to ask the age-old question, do retro games really need to be remade? The answer is yes and no. Nevertheless, before we begin our argument as to why this game is so damn charming and incredible, let’s look a few things first. Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap isn’t your typical High-Def remake of a game.

    The developers at Lizardcube put so much time and effort into The Dragon’s Trap, it’s almost really hard to place into the category of a remake. Every little detail of this game was carefully looked over, fine-tuned and measured in such a way, that it could arguably be considered the best remake of all time.

    For gamers not familiar with the Wonder Boy series probably spent most of their time playing Zelda or Metroid on the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System). However, the good news is those new to the Wonder Boy series will instantly catch on, as this is much like the beloved NES games mentioned above. This game is crammed full of exploration opportunities and even has a feature where you can use the original codes from the 80s’ version, radical!

    Possibly the sweetest thing about this entire game is being able to switch from the current new-age graphics to the retro 8-bit graphics, on the fly. Literally, at the push of a button, it’s like you are playing two different games. This feature isn’t an unlockable or DLC add-on, but built right into the game itself.

    The music and sfx have also been given a face lift. The score originally written by Shinichi Sakamoto, has been revamped and is composed by Michael Geyre and Romain Gauthier. So, whether you want to listen to an original soundtrack or switch to the 8-bit version of the game music, the option is there at the push of a button. It’s quite beautiful how seamless this feature is. Additionally, a new hero not seen in previous The Dragon’s Trap games has been added. Gamers now have the ability to play as a newcomer, Wonder Girl.

    There's a cool little prologue added to the game that allows you to battle the Mecha Dragon. Upon defeating him, a bolt of lightning strikes your character and you become cursed, taking the form of Lizard Man. For the most part, this animal form is who you’ll grow accustomed to while navigating through the game. You’ll eventually discover that there are several animal forms that have their own unique abilities that help unlock different areas of the game to explore. Scattered throughout the game, there are several power-ups and loot to collect that will allow your character to cash in on better gear or attack special enemies.

    Much like the Zelda games, your character’s life is measured by hearts, however, instead of taking out quarters or halves of your hearts, enemies will deal different levels of damage according to their power abilities. Essentially, if you face a enemy that is twice as strong as you, they could possibly take out two hearts instead of a quarter facing lower-level enemies. Good news is, by visiting the local town hub in the game, you can purchase armor and weapons upgrades to assist you in your quest.

    The graphics really stand out in The Dragon’s Trap and I’m surprised to notice that there are hardly any hiccups when switching from the remastered version to 8-bit on the fly. No lag, no visual or sound issues, flawless. The coders really did their homework. To add on top of the already beautiful hand-drawn characters and environments, everything pretty much looks true to the originals. Players take note: pay attention to the ability to switch between modern and retro graphics. The developers have added in secret walls that can only be viewed in certain styles.

    As much as I wanted to give this game a perfect score, there isn’t one game I’ve come across that didn’t come with its own funky quirks and The Dragon’s Trap is not immune.Certain enemies in this game will piss you off. I found it hard at times to avoid certain enemies and their attacks (wait until you encounter the cloud guy with sun glasses). If anything, there also seemed to be a slight delay between when your enemy attacks and when your character can strike. Let’s say, when your enemy has a jumping attack, as you approach to strike, there is a period of delay and you will almost always take damage. Enemy attacks can also result in being knocked back or can repeat stun you enough that will kill you in seconds.

    Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is by far the best representation to why certain retro games deserve a makeover. Not just because they can, but developers such as Lizardcube have taken careful thought and conducted lots of research, love and time into this game. Should DotEmu and Lizardcube decide they want to take aim at another retro game *coughs* Shinobi… I wouldn’t mind at all.
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  3. Apr 20, 2017
    9
    I played this game when it was first released on the master system back in the late 80's. I loved it. When I saw that the switch was releasing a reboot I was very excited. When I initially saw the new artstyle, I was a little worried- and told myself that I'd play it only in the original 8bit style (I thought it was awesome that this was actually an option). However, on playing it, II played this game when it was first released on the master system back in the late 80's. I loved it. When I saw that the switch was releasing a reboot I was very excited. When I initially saw the new artstyle, I was a little worried- and told myself that I'd play it only in the original 8bit style (I thought it was awesome that this was actually an option). However, on playing it, I can see how much love and detail they have put into the new art, that I have found myself playing it mostly with the new re-booted graphics. It's actually made me slightly critical of the original graphics....what am I saying???...that is ridiculous, they are perfect. ;) Great reboot. Expand
  4. Apr 20, 2017
    10
    If you grew up with this or old games, you´re in home. Great visuals and music and has a retro option to play the old way, the only terrible thing on the old version was the slow pause option, which was thankfully fixed here, everything is smooth,
  5. Apr 18, 2017
    9
    A reminder that games used to be different thirty years ago. Truly great upgrade visually with the new timeless look. Perfect for TV play or on the go. More difficult than you might expect from the first place. However it reminds me a little bit on Ori and the blind Forest mechanically and I can recommend this game for every Switch owner who like 2D platforming. The less than one GB sizeA reminder that games used to be different thirty years ago. Truly great upgrade visually with the new timeless look. Perfect for TV play or on the go. More difficult than you might expect from the first place. However it reminds me a little bit on Ori and the blind Forest mechanically and I can recommend this game for every Switch owner who like 2D platforming. The less than one GB size is also perfect for Download titles on the Nintendo Switch and this actually make this platform the perfect pick for this game. Only critic so far are the controls using 'A' not for interactions feels a little bit weird nowadays and took some time for me until it worked for me. Expand
  6. Apr 18, 2017
    8
    Quite fun I must say. nice little time killer. Some of the combat is a bit annoying with odd hit boxes but enjoy the exploration and puzzles so far. Good addition to the switch.
  7. Jun 10, 2017
    10
    they took an already great game and made it even better. the new hand drawn graphics, new sound effects and music add to what was already a near perfect game no more having to write down annoying password either the game now auto saves by itself (although it's still there if you want to use it or enter codes.)

    they got rid of that annoying charm system so no more equipping the shiny
    they took an already great game and made it even better. the new hand drawn graphics, new sound effects and music add to what was already a near perfect game no more having to write down annoying password either the game now auto saves by itself (although it's still there if you want to use it or enter codes.)

    they got rid of that annoying charm system so no more equipping the shiny armor just to see what is available in the store and every equip now says what stats you get as well as any special features it has!

    and to top it off they even added some new special hidden areas AND a new secret equip to find! BRAVO.
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  8. Apr 30, 2017
    9
    Very good graphics HD, and go from Hd to 8.bit is fantastic, has enough challenge, is kind metroidvania, very good, in fear hard if it has enough challenge for veterans
  9. Jun 10, 2017
    10
    Amazing remake, the visuals are not only well done but add to the game play, their added animation makes the slipperiness when turning feel natural. They did add a few elements to make the experience a little easier to handle, but still feels like a classic, hard, 8-bit game. As for the game itself, the different characters add variety to the game play and really flesh the experience out.Amazing remake, the visuals are not only well done but add to the game play, their added animation makes the slipperiness when turning feel natural. They did add a few elements to make the experience a little easier to handle, but still feels like a classic, hard, 8-bit game. As for the game itself, the different characters add variety to the game play and really flesh the experience out. This game is worth it for fans of classic gaming or simply fans of great games. Expand
  10. Sep 30, 2018
    9
    Beautiful and charming graphics, spot-on controls, and very solidly designed levels. Simply a great game.
    I've never played the original game, so I don't use the option to turn the graphics back to 8-bit style, but it's a fun option to have.
    Oddly the game hardest in the beginning and get progressively easier as you acquire more health and weapons/armor. You'd think it would make more
    Beautiful and charming graphics, spot-on controls, and very solidly designed levels. Simply a great game.
    I've never played the original game, so I don't use the option to turn the graphics back to 8-bit style, but it's a fun option to have.
    Oddly the game hardest in the beginning and get progressively easier as you acquire more health and weapons/armor. You'd think it would make more sense if the game became more difficult along the way. So stick with it at the start and you'll be rewarded with a fun game.
    The only negative point for me is that some item shops are hidden and impossible to find without the use of a walkthrough.
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  11. Mar 24, 2019
    8
    If you didn't own a SEGA Master System, SEGA Game Gear, PC Engine, or TurboGrafx-16 -- and most Americans did not -- you probably missed out on one of the best games of the 8-bit video game generation. Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap is an outstanding remake of a somewhat forgotten classic. Players can freely switch between beautiful, charming hand-drawn sprites and backgrounds or theirIf you didn't own a SEGA Master System, SEGA Game Gear, PC Engine, or TurboGrafx-16 -- and most Americans did not -- you probably missed out on one of the best games of the 8-bit video game generation. Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap is an outstanding remake of a somewhat forgotten classic. Players can freely switch between beautiful, charming hand-drawn sprites and backgrounds or their original, colorful pixel versions on the fly. The live-recorded soundtrack can also be reverted to its classic chip-tune basis, and these great tracks will remain stuck in your head for days. I had no idea I would enjoy this game so much. Check it out! Expand
  12. Jul 24, 2017
    8
    Si este juego hubiese salido en la NES estaría en el mismo pedestal que juegos como Megaman o Castlevania. Lo compré por la curiosidad de jugar un imprescindible de la Master System y no me arrepiento un segundo. Las gráficas modernizadas son un deleite al igual que la música, pero lo que realmente me sorprendió fue que alguien haya hecho un juego con una jugabilidad tan increíble haceSi este juego hubiese salido en la NES estaría en el mismo pedestal que juegos como Megaman o Castlevania. Lo compré por la curiosidad de jugar un imprescindible de la Master System y no me arrepiento un segundo. Las gráficas modernizadas son un deleite al igual que la música, pero lo que realmente me sorprendió fue que alguien haya hecho un juego con una jugabilidad tan increíble hace tanto tiempo. Recomendado tanto para los nostálgicos de SEGA (alguno debe andar por ahí) como para los que no conocen el juego. Unos $20 USD muy bien gastados. Expand
  13. Sep 8, 2020
    8
    Enjoyfull game and nice retro remake game. Wonder boy's amazing plataform game and this one (like the others WB) is possible see that dev team did the job with tons of love (see the optional stuff showing how team did sound recording)....and the result's amazing!

    Great game!
  14. Jun 7, 2018
    8
    I had the Game Gear release when I was young and, though I loved it, never really managed to complete it.
    Several years later, I found out this remaster and I was blown away by it. Not only the presentation is amazing, its attention to detail and respect for the original material is amazing and is packed with content. It's difficult but accessible and looks and sounds perfect.
    Not only
    I had the Game Gear release when I was young and, though I loved it, never really managed to complete it.
    Several years later, I found out this remaster and I was blown away by it. Not only the presentation is amazing, its attention to detail and respect for the original material is amazing and is packed with content. It's difficult but accessible and looks and sounds perfect.
    Not only that, but the physical edition comes with much needed goddies, such as manual, japanese GameGear reversible cover, soundtrack and a keychain.

    You can't go wrong with this one.
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  15. Jun 2, 2018
    8
    Beautiful, great job remaking the game, it's a little short but it's a great game, the music and the visuals are gorgeous.
  16. May 5, 2017
    8
    Il gioco è stato riproposto ai giorni nostri con cura e la possibilità di "skippare" dalla grafica originale a 8 bit a quella attuale è una trovata sicuramente originale. C'è stata molta cura per confezionare questo gioco, un platform/action 2D con stile "Metroidvania", tuttavia la longevità del gioco è molto corta (4/5 ore) in proporzione al prezzo a cui viene proposto (20Il gioco è stato riproposto ai giorni nostri con cura e la possibilità di "skippare" dalla grafica originale a 8 bit a quella attuale è una trovata sicuramente originale. C'è stata molta cura per confezionare questo gioco, un platform/action 2D con stile "Metroidvania", tuttavia la longevità del gioco è molto corta (4/5 ore) in proporzione al prezzo a cui viene proposto (20 Euro)...Consiglio l'acquisto, magari quando andrà in sconto...15 euro sarebbe stato un prezzo più appropriato. Expand
  17. May 2, 2017
    9
    In an age of Zelda's, Mario's, Megamen, Castlevania, Sonic and countless others, this gem appeared as the third iteration in the Wonder Boy franchise. I'm very happy to have played it on the Sega Master System and would like to advise it to everyone who likes these kinds of games. It isn't a Grand Theft Auto 5, a Breath of the Wild or any of the like. It is a pretty lineair, 2D adventureIn an age of Zelda's, Mario's, Megamen, Castlevania, Sonic and countless others, this gem appeared as the third iteration in the Wonder Boy franchise. I'm very happy to have played it on the Sega Master System and would like to advise it to everyone who likes these kinds of games. It isn't a Grand Theft Auto 5, a Breath of the Wild or any of the like. It is a pretty lineair, 2D adventure game with a decent difficulty setting. Why I liked it? I'm not really sure really. The atmosphere, the reward system for reaching new places or solving puzzles or quests? It is a rich game with plenty to do and it is just plain fun. Expand
  18. Apr 23, 2017
    9
    All I can really say is this is a great game and I completely recommend it the reason I am giving it a 9 is because it is a little to hard for my liking so if you do not like hard games you might want to stay away but other than that it is a fantastic game!
  19. Jun 18, 2017
    8
    I've never played the original Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap, so this remastered version was fun for me. The artwork and character animations are really great, and I'm impressed by their ability to modernize the game while keeping the gameplay exactly the same. It's a great game, but I do wish it had a bit more of a storyline or context to the main character's ultimate quest. ConsideringI've never played the original Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap, so this remastered version was fun for me. The artwork and character animations are really great, and I'm impressed by their ability to modernize the game while keeping the gameplay exactly the same. It's a great game, but I do wish it had a bit more of a storyline or context to the main character's ultimate quest. Considering it's just a remastered version of an old game, however, it's not like they could have changed it. I suppose it's just an example of how the old style of video games don't always hold up to modern standards, even when developers modernize the graphics. I definitely still recommend buying the game if you haven't played the old version, or if you played the old version and you absolutely loved it. At $20, it's worth the price, but don't expect it to be the best game you've ever played. Expand
  20. Apr 30, 2018
    8
    Overall Wonder Boy is a remake that I am more then happy to sink 6-7 hours into and is most definitely a game I will pick up again in the future. Personally I think Lizard Cube have done a fantastic job of bringing this classic back to life and maybe more developers should take a look at this and bring more old school classics back.
  21. Dec 1, 2017
    10
    A must have version if you were a fan of the original. People who were not fans of the original however may find this game lacking. However I am a total fanboy and hope other classic Sega titles get the same treatment.
  22. Dec 16, 2017
    9
    My first experience with this game was when I was a teenager and played Hudson Soft's port for the Turbografx, known as Dragon's Curse. I absolutely adored the game and it turned me on to the other games in the Wonder Boy/Monster World series. 27 years later, I came across the re-make on the Nintendo Switch and was surprised how great the game holds up after so long.

    I'm not saying this
    My first experience with this game was when I was a teenager and played Hudson Soft's port for the Turbografx, known as Dragon's Curse. I absolutely adored the game and it turned me on to the other games in the Wonder Boy/Monster World series. 27 years later, I came across the re-make on the Nintendo Switch and was surprised how great the game holds up after so long.

    I'm not saying this game's perfect, as the original isn't either. The weird hit boxes take a little getting used to if you're not used to the series and the difficulty level might be a bit of a put-off to the current generation of gamers. But despite all this, the gorgeous graphics overhaul, the beat-for-beat re-creation of the gameplay, and the beautiful musical score make this an amazingly crafted love letter to the original.

    The option to play it with the original Master System sounds and graphics was a neat little addition as well, as I have never had the good fortune to experience that version until now.
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  23. Apr 26, 2021
    8
    Muy buen juego. Nunca había conocido esta versión.
    Me encanta la saga de wonder boy . Mas que nada Monsterland V
  24. Apr 26, 2018
    8
    I never played the classic however that doesn't matter with this version. You can actually flick between both live as you're playing! The game felt great and you can see how much effort went into it. The attention to detail is great and the way everything is hand drawn gives it that modern yet retro feel. The way previous side-scrolling classics had gone through. The story is quite simpleI never played the classic however that doesn't matter with this version. You can actually flick between both live as you're playing! The game felt great and you can see how much effort went into it. The attention to detail is great and the way everything is hand drawn gives it that modern yet retro feel. The way previous side-scrolling classics had gone through. The story is quite simple and doesn't really hold up to many modern day games but other than that this game has everything a side-scrolling classic remake should have with genius ideas including. Definitely sets the bar high and other re-maker's of classic platformer's should take note! Expand
  25. Jun 18, 2018
    9
    If it's not broke, don't fix it, they simply made a great, classic game look modern, and boy is it beautiful. DotEmu showing developers how a remaster is done.

    PS: Although I feel like they missed out on the opportunity to bring more Wonder Boy games to the modern era.
  26. Jun 16, 2018
    8
    A remake of an older 1989 platformer game with the option to change the graphics from the modern version to the 1989 version and back, just with one button-click. A charming game with classic platforming elements that works well on the nintendo switch.
  27. Apr 29, 2020
    10
    For me, Wonderboy, The Dragon's Trap stands back to back on the Switch with Nintendo's own remake of Zelda, Link's Awakening as one of the best remakes I've ever played. Both games have been lovingly recreated with modern graphics and sound without interfering whatsoever with the gameplay of the original 8-bit titles. These titles represent the two sides of the Sega/Nintendo coin and theFor me, Wonderboy, The Dragon's Trap stands back to back on the Switch with Nintendo's own remake of Zelda, Link's Awakening as one of the best remakes I've ever played. Both games have been lovingly recreated with modern graphics and sound without interfering whatsoever with the gameplay of the original 8-bit titles. These titles represent the two sides of the Sega/Nintendo coin and the best those companies could offer in the early nineties. As with their upcoming title, Streets of Rage 4, the developer LizardCube has done a wonderful job in updating the game with handrawn graphics and an orchestral soundtrack that absolutely nails the sense of nostalgia when playing it. Most of the negative reviews I've seen for the Dragon's Trap cite 'too much backtracking' or 'bad controls' but I get the impression that anyone who has stuck with the game for more than 45 minutes would strongly disagree. My reasoning for this is because, as you progress through the game, you unlock new characters and purchase equipment which dramatically change how the game is played from moment to moment. It's almost a bit like DarkSouls or Bloodbourne in some respects as your character returns to a central hub area each time you die. You get to keep the money and items you have collected after death so you never feel like any progress was lost and you just cant beat the feeling of discovering a whole new area, despite having already walked past the entrance a dozen times without noticing, until you unlock the ability that gives you access to it. Games like this and Link's Awakening represent a masterclass in purist game design and I feel that game critics and developers alike should be forced to sit down and play them before spouting off about how great the new Uncharted game is, when beneath the shiny graphics, the gameplay is already formulaic and dated. Games like the Dragon's Trap and Link's Awakening remakes aim to prove that gameplay is king and that good game design is timeless - I for one am convinced. Expand
  28. Sep 6, 2021
    9
    If you were a fan of the original you will be overjoyed at what they have done with this remake. The sound and graphics are outstanding and it plays really nicely. They have also made some tweaks to make the menu system easier to navigate which is much appreciated. Some aspects of this game have aged better than others, so beware of that if you don't already have a soft spot for the 1989If you were a fan of the original you will be overjoyed at what they have done with this remake. The sound and graphics are outstanding and it plays really nicely. They have also made some tweaks to make the menu system easier to navigate which is much appreciated. Some aspects of this game have aged better than others, so beware of that if you don't already have a soft spot for the 1989 version. (For example, it is not always obvious what to do next in this game.) But if you want a nostalgic rerun of a childhood classic then I'm sure you will enjoy this game. This is one of the best early examples of metroidvania and it has been remade with lots of love and care. Expand
  29. May 2, 2021
    9
    Wonder Boy is an perfect example for good remaster of an original. It's from a-z the original game with better graphics, and you can anytime switch between original and enhanced graphicmode, as same you can switch between original sounds and the new ones.
    I was using both modes intensely, just to see how good work the developers did.
    Gameplay works fine as ever, but i have to warn you.
    Wonder Boy is an perfect example for good remaster of an original. It's from a-z the original game with better graphics, and you can anytime switch between original and enhanced graphicmode, as same you can switch between original sounds and the new ones.
    I was using both modes intensely, just to see how good work the developers did.

    Gameplay works fine as ever, but i have to warn you. The game is still a beast. Not a feel-good plattformer you finish easily. But that's Wonder Boy, and we love it. It's a challenging, traditional game with pure retro flair. There is an easymode, but even that one will not forgive you much.

    The new soundtrack is just brilliant. The music tracks are sooo wonderful. Animations and effects are also very well done. This game is absolute recommended, if you want to have a great game from the good old times, with the enhancements of a modern console.

    Just worth buying.
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  30. Feb 10, 2023
    9
    This game plays almost like the original but it has added bonuses, foremost the updated graphics in a classic cartoon hand drawn style and a marvellous soundtrack recorded with acoustic instruments. The other bonuses are a few new hidden areas, a neat art gallery, a few tweaks to the menus as the weapons and inventory management. A really great feature is the possibility to change anytimeThis game plays almost like the original but it has added bonuses, foremost the updated graphics in a classic cartoon hand drawn style and a marvellous soundtrack recorded with acoustic instruments. The other bonuses are a few new hidden areas, a neat art gallery, a few tweaks to the menus as the weapons and inventory management. A really great feature is the possibility to change anytime between the remade graphics and soundtrack, also separately. There's even the option to run the Japanese FM soundtrack of the original game.
    As essential as the original is to the Master System, the remake makes nearly everything better. You just have to cope with the dated physics the remake took over entirely from the original.
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  31. Sep 13, 2021
    8
    Without a doubt one of the best remakes I've played in recent memory. While the level design is the same and doesn't offer much new in that department, the new art style, music composition and the ability to swap between both at the press of a button is outstanding!
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 19
  2. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Jun 23, 2017
    85
    This may be the most beautiful hand-drawn 2D game I've ever played, and I'd frequently stop while playing just to marvel at the mastery of how each scene was reworked. [Issue #28 – July/August 2017, p. 20]
  2. CD-Action
    Jun 7, 2017
    85
    After you get used to some crudeness related to the fact that the original is 28 years old, you’ll notice that is hasn’t aged that much. What’s more, visuals were revamped so skillfully that The Dragon’s Trap is one of the prettiest games released this year. [06/2017, p.54]
  3. May 26, 2017
    90
    Wonder Boy is full of wistful retro charm, and an absolutely essential purchase on the Nintendo Switch eShop.