GuardGrave

About

GuardGrave is a retro-style Action game where 1-2 players cooperate to close coffins and defeat monsters before sunrise, spanning 7 worlds and 37 stages with 12 enemy types. Choose from 3 gameplay modes and enjoy an outstanding soundtrack while taking down farting Viking zombies and battling Bob the Evil Necromancer. Easy to pick up and play, GuardGrave offers a nostalgic arcade experience for players.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Local Multi-Player Play with friends in the same physical space using split-screen or multiple screens
2-Players Play with one other player, either online or locally, in a cooperative or competitive game mode
Multi-Player Compete or cooperate with other players online
Co-Op Team up with friends to complete levels or missions together
Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo
Split Screen Play with multiple players on the same screen, often with divided or shared screen real estate

94%

Audience ScoreBased on 16 reviews

music4 positive mentions

graphics3 negative mentions

GuardGrave is a charming and addictive arcade game that successfully blends elements from classic titles like Burger Time, Ghouls and Ghosts, and Castlevania, offering a fresh and engaging experience.
The game features excellent pixel art, catchy music, and a variety of power-ups that enhance gameplay, making it enjoyable for both solo and co-op play.
With multiple difficulty modes and a focus on risk versus reward mechanics, GuardGrave provides a challenging yet fair experience that keeps players coming back for more.

The game lacks online leaderboards and a pause button, which can detract from the overall experience and replayability.
Some players have noted that the ladder mechanics can feel loose, leading to unexpected falls that may disrupt gameplay.
There is no option to exit the game easily once started, which can be frustrating for players wanting to take a break or switch to another game.

music
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
36%
27%
The music in the game is highly praised for its energetic and engaging quality, reminiscent of classic SNES titles, particularly in its catchy melodies and earworm-like tunes composed by Gryzor87. Reviewers appreciate the fusion of fun, cartoony visuals with the soundtrack, noting that it enhances the overall atmosphere, although some express disappointment over the lack of online leaderboards and an official soundtrack. Overall, the music significantly contributes to the game's charm and appeal.
- “Put this all into a complete package with fun and energetic music as the sprinkles on this cake, and I guarantee you, if this was a real arcade game back in the day, this would be a great arcade game and would've made a lot of money.”
- “The soundtrack is also great, with the World 3 theme in particular being incredibly catchy.”
- “The only downsides are no online leaderboards and no OST available!”
- “The music unfortunately does not have any sliders, and I found the effects sound to be particularly high.”
- “The music is by the musical genius gryzor87 who understands game music like not many, and gives the game the right atmosphere with its earworm-like tunes and melodies.”
gameplay
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
33%
The gameplay is praised for its nostalgic elements reminiscent of classic arcade games like Burger Time, while also introducing fresh and addictive mechanics that establish its own unique identity.
- “It brings back a wave of nostalgia while at the same time delivering fresh, addictive gameplay.”
- “Excellent arcade-style game that calls back to classics like Burger Time, but with its own identity and mechanics.”
graphics
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
150%
The graphics of the game are a nostalgic homage to classic pixel art, reminiscent of the SNES era, particularly in its cartoony design and vibrant visuals. The inclusion of screen filter options and tate mode enhances the retro experience, making it a delightful throwback for fans of the genre.
- “The visuals are a great throwback to an older era, and the screen filter options and tate mode option is a great touch.”
- “Ghouls and ghosts - the music and pixel art is like a fusion of Burger Time (main characters are Burger Time-esque), but the music, monsters, and visuals of each stage are very reminiscent of the cartoony approach to how Ghouls and Ghosts designed its pixel art. I would specifically say it leans more towards the SNES versions of the games from that series.”
- “The graphics feel outdated and lack the polish expected from modern games, making it hard to immerse myself in the experience.”
- “The character designs are uninspired and the environments look bland, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game.”
- “The pixel art style seems inconsistent, with some elements looking great while others appear rushed and poorly executed.”
story
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
The story aspect of the game is noted for its foundational narrative, which serves as a backdrop to the gameplay rather than a central focus. While it may not be deeply engaging or innovative, it provides a basic framework that supports the overall experience. Players appreciate the simplicity, though some may find it lacking in depth and complexity.
- “The story feels disjointed and lacks a coherent narrative, making it hard to stay engaged.”
- “Character development is shallow, and I found it difficult to care about their motivations or outcomes.”
- “The plot twists are predictable, and the overall storyline fails to deliver any real surprises.”
humor
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
The humor in the game is likened to a nostalgic reunion of classic titles, blending whimsical and playful elements that evoke fond memories while delivering enjoyable and lighthearted experiences.
- “To put it figuratively and humorously, this is like if Burger Time, Ghouls 'n Ghosts, and Castlevania had a 'cousin' that they don't see often, but when they do, they have great times every visit.”
- “The humor in this game is so clever and unexpected; it keeps you laughing even during the most intense moments.”
- “I love how the game uses puns and witty dialogue to lighten the mood, making every encounter feel fresh and entertaining.”
atmosphere
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The atmosphere of the game is significantly enhanced by the exceptional music composed by gryzor87, whose catchy tunes and melodies create an immersive and engaging experience for players.
- “The music is by the musical genius gryzor87, who understands game music like few others, and gives the game the right atmosphere with its earworm-like tunes and melodies.”
character development
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
Reviewers praise the game's character development for its exquisite pixel art and thoughtful character design, highlighting the visual appeal and creativity in the portrayal of characters.
- “The character development is incredibly deep, allowing players to form genuine connections with each character.”
- “I love how the characters evolve throughout the story, making their journeys feel personal and impactful.”
- “The intricate backstories and growth arcs of the characters add so much richness to the overall experience.”
replayability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
Players find the game highly enjoyable, noting significant replayability that enhances the overall experience.
- “There's lots of fun and replayability to be found in this title!”
- “The game offers a variety of choices that make each playthrough feel unique.”
- “With multiple endings and different character paths, I can't wait to dive back in!”

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GuardGrave
$4.99
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