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Cuphead

A potent cocktail of authentic 1930s aesthetics, jazzy tunes, ingenious boss designs, and gameplay founded on the fundamentals inherent to the best 2D shooters. Cuphead sure is swell.
Cuphead Game Cover
91%Game Brain Score
graphics, music
grinding, stability
96% User Score Based on 54,365 reviews
Critic Score 86%Based on 65 reviews

Platforms

Nintendo SwitchPlaystation 5Playstation 4XboxWindowsPlayStationXbox Series X|SPCTabletCloudMac OSPhoneXbox One
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Cuphead Game Cover

About

Cuphead is a single player and multiplayer arcade platformer game with fantasy and comedy themes. It was developed by luigi2498 and was released on June 30, 2022. It received positive reviews from critics and overwhelmingly positive reviews from players.

In "Cuphead," a run-and-gun indie game, players control Cuphead, a cup-headed character, fighting through various levels and bosses in a classic 1930s cartoon style. This adaptation is a research project, aiming to create a playable version for the retro PSP console, using Game Maker 8. The latest version, Alpha 0.8.2, is available for testing, featuring numerous fixes since the initial release of Alpha 0.6. Note that this is not an official adaptation, and purchasing the original game supports the official developers.

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Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
Cuphead screenshot
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+15
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96%
Audience ScoreBased on 54,365 reviews
graphics4.1k positive mentions
grinding138 negative mentions
  • graphics
    6,722 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Cuphead is widely praised for its stunning hand-drawn graphics, which are inspired by 1930s cartoons, creating a nostalgic and visually captivating experience. The game's art style, combined with a jazzy soundtrack, enhances its charm and immerses players in a unique aesthetic that stands out in the gaming landscape. While the visuals are a major draw, many players also appreciate the challenging gameplay that complements the artistic presentation, making it a memorable title overall.

    • “The art style is mesmerizing; it does not seem like an imitation, it is really an homage to the early cartoons.”
    • “From its stunning hand-drawn visuals to its toe-tapping jazz soundtrack, every aspect of Cuphead exudes charm and creativity.”
    • “Cuphead's visuals are truly a work of art and create an immersive experience that feels like stepping into a classic animated film.”
    • “The graphics are so bad they look like something from the f*cking 1930s.”
    • “The graphics are very dated.”
    • “The graphics, I hope, aren't too low!”
  • music
    6,103 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in Cuphead has been universally praised for its exceptional quality, featuring a lively jazz soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's 1930s cartoon aesthetic. Players appreciate the unique compositions for each boss and level, which enhance the overall experience and keep the gameplay engaging, even during challenging moments. The hand-drawn visuals and meticulously crafted sound design contribute to a nostalgic atmosphere that resonates with fans of classic animation and music.

    • “From its stunning hand-drawn visuals to its toe-tapping jazz soundtrack, every aspect of Cuphead exudes charm and creativity.”
    • “Beyond its challenging gameplay, Cuphead also boasts a killer soundtrack that perfectly complements the action on screen.”
    • “From upbeat jazz tunes to haunting melodies, the music sets the mood for each encounter and adds another layer of depth to the overall experience.”
    • “The music is cute for the first few seconds to give you that 'classic feel', but it quickly degrades into repetitive atrocious noise that is so grating I had to mute it soon after each stage.”
    • “The music doesn't have to be sonic level.”
    • “The music is very catchy, I could remember myself dance to the beat while I get swarmed by a dozen bullets.”
  • gameplay
    4,881 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of Cuphead is widely praised for its challenging yet rewarding mechanics, requiring players to master boss patterns and utilize precise controls. While the game features a mix of run-and-gun levels and intense boss battles, many players appreciate the unique art style and engaging soundtrack that enhance the overall experience. However, some critiques highlight issues with the parry mechanic and the potential for frustration due to the game's steep difficulty curve, making it a title best suited for those who enjoy a tough challenge.

    • “Cuphead isn't just a game; it's a meticulously crafted work of art that transports players into a mesmerizing world of 1930s animation and challenging gameplay.”
    • “The gameplay is tough but fair, with each boss battle presenting a unique challenge that will push you to your limits.”
    • “With its stunning visuals, challenging gameplay, and infectious charm, it's a must-play experience for gamers of all ages.”
    • “I got bored of the gameplay in 30 minutes and you complain the game sucks on a Chinese basket weaving forum.”
    • “I got a's on all bosses on island 1 and tried a couple island 2 bosses then stopped playing because of how boring it is considering you will keep doing the same rinse and repeat for 15+ hours of gameplay and the game isn't even hard, it's just repeating learning bosses' moves and countering over and over and over.”
    • “The gameplay is extremely repetitive and you mostly progress through levels by luck/repetition.”
  • story
    1,439 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story of "Cuphead" is generally described as simple and straightforward, revolving around two brothers, Cuphead and Mugman, who lose their souls to the devil in a gambling bet and must collect the souls of others to reclaim their own. While some players appreciate the charming, 1930s cartoon aesthetic and the lighthearted yet dark themes, many note that the narrative is minimal and serves primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay, which focuses heavily on challenging boss battles. Overall, the story is seen as enjoyable but not the main draw of the game, with the gameplay and art style taking precedence.

    • “The story is amazing and how could we forget the endless boss battles this game has.”
    • “The story of cuphead and mugman’s deal with the devil is a timeless fable of temptation and redemption, rendered with a playful yet sinister edge.”
    • “The story is simple but charming, and it's never been more satisfying to beat a boss.”
    • “The story is just too simple, predictable, and cliché.”
    • “There isn't much reason to cheese a boss this way as there isn't much story to pursue - there is only as much of it to justify some boss rush, so it's not like there is some epic story to conclude.”
    • “The story is practically non-existent; behind a beautiful art style is ultimately a very generic game.”
  • humor
    445 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in Cuphead is widely praised for its charming, old-school cartoon aesthetic and clever animations, which provide a delightful contrast to the game's challenging gameplay. Players often find themselves laughing at the absurdity of the bosses and the quirky storyline, making the experience enjoyable even amidst frustration. Co-op play enhances the comedic aspect, as friends share in the hilarity of their repeated failures and the game's whimsical character designs.

    • “Cuphead is a fantastic game with personality, humor, and solid gameplay.”
    • “The story is funny, the characters you meet in Inkwell Isle are fantastic, and the pace of the game feels rewarding.”
    • “This game is a visual delight, and it's not just the style that's compelling, it's the black humor throughout, like characters shooting craps in an empty coffin.”
    • “It's good, but I die too much; that's not funny.”
    • “Tons of boss battles, check. (Insert unfunny joke about Dark Souls here) level difficulty, check.”
  • replayability
    290 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, "Cuphead" is praised for its high replayability, driven by its challenging gameplay, multiple difficulty levels, and a ranking system that encourages players to improve their scores. Many players appreciate the variety of play styles, co-op mode, and the addition of expert mode and DLC, which further enhance the game's replay value. However, some reviewers note that once the main campaign is completed, the replayability may feel limited for those who are less inclined to pursue perfectionist challenges or higher ranks.

    • “The gameplay is tight, the weapons are varied enough not only to lead to different play styles, but also to add replay value. The levels are intriguing and challenging, and it's a blast in 1 or 2 player modes.”
    • “The co-op mode allows players to team up with a friend and adds an extra layer of fun and replayability.”
    • “Cuphead offers a high level of replayability, with multiple difficulty levels, secrets to uncover, and achievements to unlock.”
    • “Once players complete the main campaign, Cuphead's replayability may be limited for some, as the primary focus is on mastering boss battles.”
    • “The structure of the game is at the core of this problem: once you've mastered a boss, you may get a slight addition to the challenge in expert mode, but not a lot of replayability beyond that.”
    • “I enjoyed playing the game once, but I think the replay value is hurt due to its difficulty.”
  • grinding
    230 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The grinding aspect of the game is widely described as both challenging and tedious, often requiring players to invest significant time and effort to master difficult bosses and levels. While some players find the grind rewarding and enjoyable due to the game's beautiful art and satisfying mechanics, others feel it can become monotonous and frustrating, particularly when faced with repetitive trial-and-error gameplay. Overall, the experience of grinding varies greatly among players, with many suggesting that it is essential for those seeking to achieve 100% completion or to fully appreciate the game's depth.

    • “Cuphead is harder than Dark Souls because there is no grinding and becoming OP.”
    • “It makes the game enjoyable and not tedious like the time I'm writing this review.”
    • “There are no micro-transactions, there is no grinding, etc. You get to play this game at your own pace, and it's fun for the whole way through.”
    • “Grinding through the levels and bosses feels like an aggravating chore.”
    • “The gameplay itself is actually very tedious.”
    • “What was once an enjoyable pastime had become a monotonous, tedious chore, utterly devoid of any sense of accomplishment or originality.”
  • stability
    188 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players praising its smooth performance and minimal glitches, while others report frustrating bugs and occasional freezes that can disrupt gameplay. Overall, the game is generally well-optimized, but some users have experienced significant issues, particularly during boss fights and in co-op mode. Despite these problems, many players still find the game enjoyable and commend the developers for their efforts in addressing bugs through patches.

    • “Flawless optimization; no glitches, no stutters, no bugs, and no crashes.”
    • “I had no glitches or problems with the game, and that is saying something among today's games.”
    • “The game runs great - the music is amazing.”
    • “The main problem is that the game opens and goes straight to a black screen and freezes!”
    • “It's a fun platformer and sidescroller, but if you use the keyboard controls the game glitches sometimes.”
    • “The game is awesome, I played all the Inkwell Isle One bosses and the game is very good but, I can't play anymore, in Inkwell Isle Two the bosses just don't open, the loading screen freezes, the music kicks in but the game crashes.”
  • atmosphere
    171 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its stunning hand-drawn art style and immersive jazz soundtrack, which together evoke a nostalgic 1930s cartoon vibe. Players appreciate how the visuals and music enhance the gameplay experience, creating a charming yet challenging environment that captivates and engages them throughout. Overall, the game's unique aesthetic and atmospheric elements are considered a standout feature, contributing significantly to its appeal.

    • “Gorgeous melodies that fully match the atmosphere and action on the screen, creating a unique atmosphere and adding depth to the gameplay.”
    • “The game's retro-style graphics and jazzy soundtrack create a delightful and charming atmosphere that is sure to captivate players.”
    • “The hand-drawn graphics mixed with the tight controls, and the amazing soundtrack and atmosphere make for one of the most unique game experiences to date.”
    • “The atmosphere of the game is more immersive and incredible than any other game; the gameplay is also great.”
    • “This surreal, almost-elegiac atmosphere pairs remarkably well with the relentless difficulty; this is a world where every inanimate object has angry eyes, gyrates constantly like it's busting for a piss, and desperately wants you dead, which is just as well, because you'll have obliged them several hundred times before the game is done.”
    • “It's frustratingly hard, which will turn some people off, but the atmosphere!”
  • emotional
    155 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The emotional aspect of "Cuphead" is characterized by a profound rollercoaster of feelings, ranging from frustration and anger to joy and nostalgia. Many players report experiencing intense emotional responses, including tears of both joy and pain, as they navigate the game's challenging mechanics and heartfelt storytelling. The combination of its nostalgic art style and difficult gameplay creates a unique emotional experience that resonates deeply with players, often leaving them feeling both accomplished and emotionally drained.

    • “Such an inspiring story made me shed a tear, and I couldn't not support the developers...”
    • “This game made me feel alive!”
    • “Cuphead is an absolutely charming and heartwarming run-and-gun game.”
  • character development
    112 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in the game is highly praised for its stunning hand-drawn animation and unique character designs that evoke the charm of 1930s cartoons. Reviewers highlight the creativity and detail in character aesthetics, with each character and boss showcasing distinct traits and imaginative designs that enhance the overall gameplay experience. The cohesive blend of art style, animation, and music contributes to a captivating and immersive environment, making character design a standout feature of the game.

    • “The game beautifully captures the hand-drawn, 1930s cartoon aesthetic, with its vibrant colors, fluid animations, and imaginative character designs.”
    • “You can tell right off the bat how much passion and hard work went into this game, and it really shows in the game's character designs.”
    • “The character designs themselves are splendid, from the main characters to the large boss enemies right down to the background characters.”
    • “Bad character design.”
    • “The character design is bad too.”
    • “Also the visuals are terrible; lazy animation and uninspired character design.”
  • optimization
    83 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the game's optimization is generally praised, with many players reporting smooth performance across a variety of systems, including lower-end PCs. While some users experienced minor issues such as frame drops and stuttering, particularly on specific platforms like the Switch, the majority found the game to run well with minimal glitches or crashes. A few players noted that further optimization for certain setups, like ARM Macs, could enhance the experience, but many agree that the game is well-optimized for its visual quality and gameplay mechanics.

    • “Flawless optimization; no glitches, no stutters, no bugs, and no crashes.”
    • “The game runs smoothly on a crap laptop, so don't hesitate to buy this game since you need no master laptop for this masterpiece!”
    • “Cuphead is an incredibly fun and challenging boss rush shooter that encourages learning, execution, and optimization.”
    • “Leave it a three star for now, 5 stars after the game is optimized for ARM Macs.”
    • “Having performance issues on a PC that should be able to run ten instances of the game also leaves a bad taste.”
    • “I get some huge framerate drops and stuttering play at odd times.”
  • monetization
    29 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization model of Cuphead is highly praised, with users emphasizing the absence of microtransactions, DLC, and pay-to-win mechanics, which they see as a refreshing departure from the current trend in many AAA games. Reviewers appreciate the developers' commitment to delivering a complete gaming experience without resorting to cash grabs, highlighting the game's focus on quality and player enjoyment. Overall, players recommend Cuphead for its integrity in monetization practices, contrasting it with the prevalent issues in the gaming industry.

    • “Game is clear: no microtransactions needed!”
    • “This game puts AAA games to shame, and you won't have to subject yourself to microtransactions and numerous DLCs.”
    • “Just like the good old days, there isn't any DLC or microtransactions for additional content.”
    • “No season pass BS, no in-game purchase sh*t, no pay to win...”
    • “It's refreshing to see a game oozing with passion and care amidst a sea of cash grabs and shovelware.”
    • “Good on MDHR for making a game that is not just a cash grab.”
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86%Critics’ scoreBased on 65 critic reviews
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20h Median play time
55h Average play time
10h Main story
25h Completionist
6-58h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 162 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Cuphead is a arcade platformer game with fantasy and comedy themes.

Cuphead is available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Windows and others.

The main story can be completed in around 10 hours, while the entire game is estimated to take about 25 hours to finish. On average players spend around 55 hours playing Cuphead.

Cuphead was released on June 30, 2022.

Cuphead was developed by luigi2498.

Cuphead has received positive reviews from players and positive reviews from critics. Most players liked this game for its graphics but disliked it for its grinding.

Cuphead is a single player game with multiplayer and local co-op support.

Similar games include Super Meat Boy, Little Meatmo, Enter The Gungeon, Rayman Origins, Pizza Tower and others.