Dead Cells, the critically acclaimed roguelike-metroidvania hybrid, has made its way to mobile devices, bringing its intense action, intricate level design, and punishing difficulty to the small screen. Developed by Motion Twin and ported by Playdigious, the mobile version of Dead Cells aims to deliver the same thrilling experience as its console and PC counterparts. But does it succeed? Let’s dive in.
Gameplay: Fast, Fluid, and Addictive
Dead Cells is known for its fast-paced combat and tight controls, and the mobile version doesn’t disappoint. The touchscreen controls are surprisingly responsive, with customizable button layouts and sensitivity options to suit your playstyle. While purists might prefer a physical controller (which is supported via Bluetooth), the touch controls are more than adequate for slashing, dodging, and parrying your way through hordes of enemies.
The game’s core loop remains unchanged: you explore procedurally generated levels, collect weapons and abilities, and fight challenging bosses, all while trying to survive permadeath. Each run feels fresh, thanks to the variety of weapons, skills, and upgrades you can unlock. The mobile version includes all the content from the original game, including updates like the “Rise of the Giant” DLC, ensuring hours of replayability.
Graphics and Performance: A Visual Treat
Dead Cells’ pixel art is stunning, and the mobile version retains every bit of its charm. The vibrant colors, detailed animations, and atmospheric environments look fantastic on high-resolution screens. Performance is smooth on most modern devices, with minimal frame drops even during intense combat sequences. However, older devices might struggle with occasional lag, so make sure your phone or tablet meets the recommended specs.
Content and Updates: Packed with Value
The mobile version includes all the content from the PC and console versions, meaning you get access to multiple biomes, enemies, bosses, and weapons. The “Rise of the Giant” DLC is included for free, adding new levels, enemies, and story elements. The developers have also promised to bring future updates to the mobile version, ensuring it stays on par with other platforms.
Challenges of Mobile Gaming
While Dead Cells on mobile is a fantastic port, it’s not without its challenges. The smaller screen can make it harder to appreciate the game’s intricate details, and touch controls, while well-implemented, may not offer the same precision as a physical controller. Additionally, the game’s difficulty can feel even more punishing on mobile, especially for newcomers to the genre.
Conclusion: A Must-Play for Fans and Newcomers Alike
Dead Cells on mobile is an impressive port that captures the essence of the original game. It’s a testament to the developers’ dedication that such a complex and demanding game translates so well to a touchscreen interface. While it may not replace the console or PC experience for everyone, it’s an excellent way to enjoy Dead Cells on the go.
If you’re a fan of challenging action games or roguelikes, Dead Cells (Mobile Version) is a must-play. Just be prepared to die—a lot.
Rating: 9/10
Pros:
- Faithful port with all original content
- Responsive touch controls and controller support
- Stunning pixel art and smooth performance
- High replayability
Cons:
- Touch controls may not suit everyone
- Smaller screen can detract from the experience
- Challenging difficulty might frustrate some players
Whether you’re a seasoned Dead Cells veteran or a newcomer looking for a thrilling mobile game, this port is well worth your time and money.