Dragon Is Dead

Dragon Is Dead is a very good hack-and-slash game, but it’s a pretty poor Roguelite. I wish the game had more carefully crafted levels, with well-placed items. The game’s pixel art and dark fantasy world drove me to keep playing, but the Roguelite systems didn’t. There are also way too many systems and ideas that need streamlining. The game has enough good elements that 2D hack and slash and Roguelite fans should still check it out. Dragon Is Dead just isn’t a great example of the genres merging.

Offers up a fair amount of side-scrolling hack-and-slash challenges, but compared to its contemporaries lacks a clear addictive pull to keep you coming back for more

Dragon is Dead is an interesting experiment that bases many of its ideas on popular Metroidvania games, adding RPG elements that make its gameplay very addictive, and if you are a fan of "Blasphemouslike" games, this title is for you.

This action-packed, 2D, hack-and-slash game featuring permanent death is aimed at hardcore gamers and roguelike enthusiasts who won't be put off by failure. Although the game itself is relatively short, it takes a lot of tries to reach the finale.

Not every roguelite can be like Hades and its sequel, but that doesn't mean it has to be. While there are certain similarities between the leading games in the genre and Dragon is Dead, what Team SunEat has put together is still a worthwhile adventure that is just a little rough around the edges. For 12-16 hours or so, it will appeal to the player who is willing to enjoy the grind, and the result is an addictive time that looks great and plays well, just don't look too keenly at the writing.

Dragon is Dead doesn’t exactly revolutionise the side-scrolling platformer, but between the vast skill trees, plethora of items and their effects, and different player classes, every run feels unique. Even different styles of the same character can feel like playing a completely different game, and the roguelite structure ensures players can pour countless hours into honing a playstyle they really like—or throw caution to the wind and let the RNG give them whatever it wants. A few visual bugs mar an otherwise beautiful game, and the core level design could stand to be less formulaic, but players will likely be too addicted to the gameplay loop to notice.

Dragon is Dead has evolved significantly since its Early Access debut. TeamSuneat has delivered on much of its promise, delivering a more polished action roguelite packed with content and engaging combat. The inclusion of a new playable character, UI improvements, and a challenging endgame have made the experience even more rewarding for players who enjoy pushing their limits.

RPGamers that enjoy loot systems and roguelites in general will certainly find something to appreciate here, but the game is unlikely to sway those who don’t already enjoy the genre.

Dragon Is Dead establishes itself as a 2D action roguelite with tremendous potential and undeniable charm, especially for those who appreciate fast-paced gameplay and a deep progression system. TeamSuneat wears its influences proudly, skillfully blending mechanics and atmospheres reminiscent of genre-defining classics to create an experience that’s both highly enjoyable and addictive. While the linearity of the level design may be a notable weakness, the sheer variety of build combinations and the fluidity of combat more than make up for it, ensuring that every run is a genuine pleasure. Get ready to lose track of time—this is a true gem with serious addictive qualities.

Dragon is Dead combines the enjoyment of collecting loot and creating your perfect build in a side scrolling action roguelike fashion. It has its flaws with a lot of aspects, but is undeniably fun with the seemingly limitless builds that you can make.