Dungeon Defense
- November 8, 2016
- GameCoaster
- 4h median play time
"Dungeon Defense" is a single-player strategy game with a good story and perfect gameplay, featuring stunning graphics and a sensational soundtrack. As the guardian of the last dungeon, you must defend it from heroes seeking to conquer it. The game boasts easy-to-play retro graphics and sounds, with the ability to organize a variety of mercenaries, find synergies, and earn rewards for achievements. The game can be very grinding, but it is also very funny and highly replayable, offering various contents such as dungeon building and collecting weapons.
Reviews
- Great gameplay with a lot of depth and replayability.
- No ads or intrusive microtransactions, making it a refreshing experience.
- Charming retro graphics and music that enhance the overall enjoyment.
- The user interface can be overwhelming and confusing for new players.
- Cloud save functionality is unreliable, leading to lost progress.
- The game can become repetitive and grindy over time.
- gameplay495 mentions
- 61 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The gameplay is generally praised for its simplicity and accessibility, making it easy for new players to pick up while offering depth for more experienced gamers through various mechanics like RPG elements, talent trees, and upgrade systems. However, some users note that the gameplay can become repetitive over time, and there are calls for better explanations of certain mechanics and a more intuitive user interface. Overall, the game is described as addictive and enjoyable, with a nostalgic retro aesthetic that enhances the experience.
“Excellent RPG, top-down shooter, tower defense, base-building hybrid; on the surface it seems easy enough, and learning the basics are, but the depth and mastery needed to traverse the higher level difficulties is an enjoyable experience.”
“The gameplay is surprisingly deep, even if the active portions are deceptively simple.”
“The gameplay is simple yet captivating, and the music and graphics are similar.”
“While addictive in certain circumstances, it is also quite shallow and bereft of substantive gameplay.”
“Gameplay is very, very repetitive... while I like the idea of the game I also can't stand how after about 40 hours the only thing that seems to change is the numbers.”
“There is literally zero gameplay difference between day 10 and day 100.”
- graphics358 mentions
- 62 % positive mentions
- 37 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are predominantly described as charmingly simplistic and nostalgic, featuring a retro 8-bit or pixelated art style that appeals to fans of classic gaming. While some users note that the visuals may seem low-resolution or basic, many appreciate how they complement the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience without detracting from it. Overall, the graphics are well-received for their cute aesthetic and effective communication of game mechanics, making them a highlight for players who enjoy retro-themed designs.
“Adorable graphics and told from a surprisingly endearing point of view, dungeon defense is a wave survival game, and an insanely addictive one at that.”
“Amazing game, great UI and nice retro style graphics.”
“I love the graphics, old-timey and the old dungeon arcade style game and music!”
“Horrible graphics, fun and interesting gameplay.”
“The only downside is the graphics are below average.”
“For me this is a fun way to kill time, while the graphics suck, the gameplay more than makes up for it.”
- monetization217 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 24 % neutral mentions
- 29 % negative mentions
The monetization model of the game is highly praised, with users appreciating the absence of ads and the optional nature of microtransactions. While the game has a low entry fee of $1, players feel no pressure to engage in in-app purchases, as all content can be unlocked through gameplay. Overall, the monetization is described as fair and non-intrusive, allowing for a fun experience without the typical mobile game pitfalls of aggressive advertising or paywalls.
“No ads, just a fun, simple game.”
“No pressure to spend more on microtransactions.”
“Not only are the items that are purchasable in the shop earnable in game, there is even a disclaimer when entering the shop informing you of this fact and making it clear that you don't have to spend any money on microtransactions.”
“It claims to not need in-game purchases, but realistically your progress is stunted by at least 90% without additional money.”
“Paid app with aggressive microtransactions.”
“Sure, the game was cheap but the monetization behind the gameplay can't be excused unless it was a free-to-play game.”
- music158 mentions
- 68 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread praise for its nostalgic 8-bit style, with many players finding it enjoyable and well-composed, enhancing the overall gaming experience. While some noted that the soundtrack can become repetitive over time, the majority appreciated its charm and how it complements the retro graphics and gameplay. Overall, the music is considered a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's appeal.
“Absolutely adore the music and art, very impressive for a one-man team.”
“The music is amazing, the gameplay is super engaging, and there is so much stuff to do.”
“The soundtrack is phenomenal.”
“I really really like this game a lot but I kinda don't like the soundtrack.”
“Battle end music is why awful though.”
“Boring gameplay and annoying music.”
- replayability100 mentions
- 66 % positive mentions
- 31 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The game boasts exceptionally high replayability, with players praising its diverse leveling systems, numerous achievements, and various character builds that encourage multiple playthroughs. Many reviews highlight the game's depth, engaging mechanics, and the ability to manage different strategies, making it appealing for both casual and dedicated gamers. Overall, it is regarded as a fun and addictive experience with significant replay value.
“Replayability is a huge focus and there are tons of achievements and unlockables to keep OCD completists like myself addicted to the chase without feeling like I am doing chores.”
“The replayability is endless; there are a ton of team combinations and so many weapons and challenges.”
“This game nails replayability absolutely; it doesn't require long shifts of gameplay to enjoy, and most of all, it's simple to begin with but complex and unending in difficulty.”
“It's a lot more in-depth than I expected, and I'm sure its replayability is very, very high judging from the content.”
- grinding92 mentions
- 3 % positive mentions
- -1 % neutral mentions
- 98 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight a mixed perception of grinding in the game, with many players finding it enjoyable and rewarding, while others describe it as tedious and excessive. Some appreciate the variety and depth of content that comes with grinding, particularly in terms of customization and progression, while others feel that the grind can detract from the overall experience, especially if it becomes repetitive or overly time-consuming. Overall, the game appeals to those who enjoy grind-heavy gameplay, but may not be suitable for players who prefer a more streamlined experience.
“The leveling system feels nice, the research system isn't grindy at all, and you can easily customize your team without being overwhelmed by ads.”
“I love it! It's an interactive game at the beginning, but you gradually work your way to being able to play AFK. If you're not into grinding, you can still enjoy it casually, and in-app purchases aren't necessary unless you prefer to take shortcuts. Even then, I recommend unlocking them for that sense of reward.”
“The grind is rewarding and balanced, allowing players to progress at their own pace without feeling forced.”
“After a few days of playing, I now find out there is no end and no point in the grind... it's just a ridiculous amount of grinding to just get incrementally better.”
“At first, it seems perfect, but after grinding for ~10 hours (I kid you not), you realize that the benefits of the grind pale in comparison to the time spent.”
“The amount of grinding can be kind of high as well as the cash price if the grind is too unbearable.”
- story15 mentions
- 53 % positive mentions
- 27 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The reviews reflect a mixed sentiment regarding the game's story aspect. While some players appreciate the gameplay and graphics, many express a desire for a more developed narrative, suggesting the addition of a story mode and deeper character backgrounds. Others feel that the lack of a traditional storyline allows for a more straightforward gaming experience, but overall, there is a consensus that enhancing the story could significantly improve the game.
“Great game and has an amazing background story to it, absolutely loving it.”
“Only thing that could make this better would be a cool story.”
“There's no story to worry about, and all the rehashed cliché crud that generally would come with it.”
“Just lacks story.”
“Pretty simple and clean game, would love to see some storytelling with the monsters.”
- humor11 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is widely praised for its humor, featuring a nostalgic 8-bit aesthetic that enhances its comedic charm. Players find it funny and addictive, with a variety of amusing characters and engaging gameplay that appeals to fans of old-school video games. Overall, the humor is a standout aspect, contributing significantly to the game's enjoyable experience.
“Funny and very detailed nostalgic 8-bit look alike.”
“Super easy to pick up, great music, funny charm, and super addictive.”
“Hilarious, fun, so many angles!”
- optimization10 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is well-optimized, running smoothly on various devices, including older models like the Galaxy S4. While some users noted potential areas for improvement in menu navigation, the general consensus is that performance issues are minimal, and the gameplay experience is enjoyable and fluid.
“No performance issues, simple design which works well on mobile devices.”
“This game runs smoothly, has great pixel graphics, and doesn't push in-app purchases.”
“Really fun so far, there's a lot going on menu-wise, but with some optimizations, that could be an easy fix.”
“I love the game, but it could be optimized.”
“While worrying about optimization problems, it runs smooth as butter on my old Galaxy S4, and anything newer should be even smoother.”
- stability7 mentions
- 71 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 29 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's stability is generally positive, with many users reporting smooth performance and no significant bugs. However, some players have encountered a frustrating bug related to talent points, and there are minor UI issues on certain devices. Despite these concerns, the game is praised for its low resource demands and enjoyable gameplay.
“Runs great on a low-end phone.”
“This game is simplistic, bug-free (I myself haven't experienced any bugs), original, unique, and addicting.”
“Runs great, lots to do (so far); only hiccup is the UI is tiny on Samsung S7 for the amount of buttons/options available to use and information to read... not prohibitive for enjoying but noticeable.”
“The only reason for 3 stars is because of a really annoying bug that's recently popped up that glitches talent points, making them go into the negatives and saying you've used them even though you haven't.”
- character development5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is highly praised for its engaging designs and extensive upgrade options, blending elements of tower defense, RPG mechanics, and clicker-style progression. Players appreciate the fun and creativity involved in customizing their characters, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
“Great fun hybrid of tower defense, RPG character development, and 'clicker' style stat development.”
“An amazing one, especially if you like character development.”
“Lots of upgrades and fun character design and style.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the game's pixel art style to be heartwarming, while the campaign is noted for its emotional depth, being both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking.
“I enjoy this game; the pixel style is heartwarming and nice.”
“The campaign is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is praised for its rewarding and engaging grind, providing players with a sense of progress and achievement without the frustration of feeling stuck. This stands out in a mobile landscape often criticized for excessive monetization.
“This game creates a rewarding atmosphere with its grind, and you never feel stuck at a point where you grind for nothing most of the time.”
“The atmosphere is immersive and engaging, making every moment spent in the game feel meaningful.”
“The game's world is beautifully crafted, drawing players in with its stunning visuals and captivating sound design.”