Nidhogg

83%
Game Brain Score Based on 7,870 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
Nidhogg Game Cover
A brilliant marriage of mechanics, level design and music that will be played and talked about for years to come.
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"Nidhogg is a local multi-player fighting game for 2 players, filled with fast-paced fencing and melee combat. Victory comes from a series of kills, allowing you to advance towards your opponent's goal-zone. With its stunning visuals, hilarious gameplay, and numerous arenas, Nidhogg offers a highly replayable and unique experience."

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Steam Deck
  • Windows
  • Play​Station
  • Play​station Vita
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

83%
Audience ScoreBased on 7,870 reviews
gameplay429 positive mentions
story10 negative mentions
  • gameplay913 mentions

    The gameplay of Nidhogg is characterized by its simple yet deep mechanics, making it easy to learn but challenging to master. Players engage in fast-paced, competitive duels that emphasize strategy and skill, with a unique tug-of-war element that adds tension to each match. While the game excels in local multiplayer fun, many reviewers note a lack of content and variety, with only a few maps available, which can lead to repetitive gameplay over time.

    • “The gameplay initially seems fairly simple, but has a surprising amount of nuance and counterplay as you learn the mechanics, and the visuals are also simplistic, but are highly stylised and really sell the gritty, weird nature of this game.”
    • “The core gameplay is easy to pick up, but there is plenty to learn and good variety in play.”
    • “Nidhogg is a great example of mechanics (gameplay) over aesthetics (graphics), proving that being fun to play is the single most important part of game design.”
    • “The gameplay is unpolished, the controls are badly designed, the balance feels off and the software is not the best.”
    • “There aren't many levels or too much combat depth, so things get boring after a bit, but the controls and gameplay are solid.”
    • “The gameplay concept is really cool, but the lack of story and multiplayer support paired with repetitiveness makes this a not so fun experience.”
  • graphics486 mentions

    The graphics of Nidhogg are characterized by a charming, minimalist pixel art style that evokes nostalgia for retro gaming, particularly reminiscent of Atari visuals. While some players appreciate the simplicity and unique aesthetic, others find the graphics lacking in detail and depth; however, many agree that the visuals effectively complement the game's fast-paced, competitive gameplay. Overall, the art style is seen as a fitting choice that enhances the game's quirky atmosphere and engaging mechanics.

    • “The gameplay initially seems fairly simple, but has a surprising amount of nuance and counterplay as you learn the mechanics, and the visuals are also simplistic, but are highly stylized and really sell the gritty, weird nature of this game.”
    • “The art style and soundtrack combine to create a wonderful setting while you master the in-depth combat.”
    • “The visuals, however minimal, are beautifully designed and add to the unique gameplay that Nidhogg brings to the table.”
    • “The graphics are not impressive, but that should be obvious from the screenshots.”
    • “It has barely any maps or variation in the gameplay, the music is sub-par, the graphics are unappealing, and the game overall gets very dull after about five minutes.”
    • “Knowing this and seeing low quality graphics, the lack of digital controller support and bugs all over the place I cannot recommend this game at $15 or even at its sale price.”
  • music342 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread acclaim for its unique and engaging compositions, primarily crafted by Daedelus, which enhance the overall atmosphere and gameplay experience. While many players appreciate the catchy and fitting soundtracks that accompany each level, some express concerns about the repetitiveness due to the limited number of tracks. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a significant highlight, contributing to the game's charm and intensity.

    • “The music is perfect.”
    • “The soundtrack is awesome and unique.”
    • “Daedelus' musical score for the game shines surprisingly bright; in tandem with the trippy stage backgrounds the tracks create a very surreal and otherworldly experience that I would never have expected from the game, but I find the atmosphere highly captivating and very much want more of it.”
    • “I dislike this game purely for its horrible art style and music.”
    • “There is one song in each map, so due to the many times that you'll die you will eventually get tired of them.”
    • “It has barely any maps or variation in the gameplay, the music is sub-par, the graphics are unappealing, and the game overall gets very dull after about five minutes.”
  • humor296 mentions

    The humor in this game is consistently praised, with players highlighting its hilarious moments, especially during local multiplayer sessions. The chaotic and fast-paced gameplay leads to spontaneous laughter, ridiculous deaths, and memorable interactions among friends, making it an ideal party game. While some find the novelty may wear off, the overall experience is described as uproariously funny, particularly when enjoyed with others.

    • “Playing this with friends is absolutely hilarious and can result in some great memories and gameplay.”
    • “The action is fast, frantic and absolutely hilarious!”
    • “Endlessly accidentally and hilariously killing your friends has never been more fun.”
  • replayability74 mentions

    The game's replayability is highly dependent on multiplayer experiences, with many users noting that it shines in local or online PvP modes, offering nearly endless fun. However, the single-player mode is often criticized for being short and lacking depth, leading to limited replay value for solo players. Overall, while the multiplayer aspect provides significant replayability, the single-player experience is generally seen as lacking.

    • “With the race, dueling, and tournament modes just in PvP, the replay value here is nigh endless.”
    • “Easily the best sword-play mechanics I've seen to date, with a lot of replayability, as each game can be as quick as 2 minutes, or as long as 20, and a new opponent will be along for you to run into their sword within minutes.”
    • “This game is amazing, 10/10 worth the money, 100% replayability and fun through the whole game; I do suggest a controller to play.”
    • “Couldn't really find the replay value.”
    • “However, the replayability of the game is limited, as there are only four maps and the online multiplayer is a bit rough around the edges, and once you beat the singleplayer campaign you need friends who enjoy playing it as much as you do.”
    • “No unlockable content pretty much makes this game suffer from a scarcity of solid content and no replay value.”
  • story66 mentions

    The game's story is largely criticized for being minimal or nonexistent, with many players expressing a desire for a more developed narrative. While some appreciate the gameplay mechanics and find enjoyment in multiplayer experiences, others feel that the lack of a substantial story detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the game is seen as fun and challenging, but it does not cater to those seeking a rich, story-driven adventure.

    • “I like the controls, the storyline, and the fact that it's really challenging.”
    • “Intricate mechanics, steady challenge progression, captivating story and writing, truly beautiful ending and art style that complements the gameplay perfectly.”
    • “A story that will keep you saying, 'What the hell is going to happen next?'”
    • “The only thought that I had after I finished the game was: 'there should definitely be a story mode for this game, rather than just plain duels.'”
    • “This game does not have any story of any kind.”
    • “There is a 30-minute single player mode with no story or explanation of what a Nidhogg is; in fact, there is no story to the game whatsoever.”
  • stability60 mentions

    The game's stability is heavily criticized, with numerous reports of bugs and glitches affecting both single-player and multiplayer modes. Players experience issues such as freezing, lag, and desynchronization, particularly in online matches, leading to a frustrating gameplay experience. While local multiplayer is generally praised, the overall impression is that the game feels unfinished and requires significant improvements to its stability.

    • “No glitches; both multiplayer and solo AI are of decent quality.”
    • “My 6+ hours with this game shows that I somewhat enjoy playing it from time to time, but this game is most definitely let down by glitches.”
    • “If you want a quick review: don't buy this game for the singleplayer: it's buggy, unrewarding, unsatisfying, and extremely unfair and irritating.”
    • “The online multiplayer is not just laggy or slightly buggy, as you'd expect from an 'indie' title - it is outright broken.”
  • optimization20 mentions

    The game's optimization is a mixed bag; while single-player runs smoothly with high framerates, the multiplayer experience suffers significantly from severe lag and low performance, making it nearly unplayable for clients. Users report that despite having capable hardware and fast internet connections, the game's network performance is poorly optimized, leading to frustrating gameplay issues. Overall, the optimization concerns primarily affect the multiplayer aspect, detracting from an otherwise enjoyable experience.

    • “The controls take a while to get used to or to find what you like, but after that learning curve, the game runs smoothly and is a lot of fun to play either with a friend or against the single player campaign.”
    • “It was an absolutely fantastic performance.”
    • “Runs smoothly and can bring either rage or joy to anyone with its simplistic controls!”
    • “However, the multiplayer is often unplayable due to lag issues that result from poor optimization, which is a significant negative.”
    • “We only live two hours apart and we both have extremely fast internet speeds (50mb+), yet the lag was so bad that whoever wasn't hosting literally had no chance of winning due to stuttering and lag issues in the game.”
    • “Depending on who is the host determines who gets a seamless performance; if you're the client, then you will experience the worst latency and detection possible.”
  • emotional17 mentions

    Players report a profound emotional impact from the game, describing it as an emotional roller coaster that evokes laughter and tears. Many express a deep connection to the game, highlighting its ability to make them feel like true heroes or swordsmen, while others share feelings of longing and unfulfilled fantasies. Overall, the game is praised for its capacity to elicit strong emotional responses, making it a memorable experience.

    • “It was an emotional roller coaster, I couldn't handle it.”
    • “10/10 would cry again.”
    • “I laughed... I cried... a must buy at 5 dollars!!!”
  • atmosphere14 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is described as tense and competitive, enhanced by quality combat and a captivating musical score by Daedelus. Players appreciate the combination of simple yet exciting graphics and surreal stage backgrounds, which together create an extraordinary and immersive experience. Overall, the atmosphere is a significant draw, making the gameplay both fun and engaging.

    • “For such a simple concept, the game has amazing atmosphere, quality combat, and an overall extraordinary gameplay experience.”
    • “It creates a tense, yet fun atmosphere that will have you jumping up when your opponent throws his sword into your face and runs past your corpse.”
    • “The uniquely realized concept simplifies the oft-debated 'right of way' that plagues fencing judges and participants alike, adding to the atmosphere of this being Atari fencing, while the addition of throwing one's sword and buckets of pixelated blood makes you realize it's anything but.”
    • “Daedelus' musical score for the game shines surprisingly bright; in tandem with the trippy stage backgrounds, the tracks create a very surreal and otherworldly experience that I would never have expected from the game, but I find the atmosphere highly captivating and very much want more of it.”
  • grinding6 mentions

    Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be somewhat tedious and boring, particularly in single-player mode, where it can feel repetitive. However, the competition does ramp up in tournament mode, providing a more engaging experience.

    • “The game becomes tedious and boring within the first match.”
    • “The single player mode is a little tedious, though the competition does increase quite a bit.”
    • “The game can feel a bit grindy sometimes.”
  • character development2 mentions

    The reviews highlight a strong emphasis on clean character design and art direction, suggesting that the visual presentation enhances the overall experience. However, there is little mention of depth or complexity in character development, indicating a focus on simplicity in gameplay rather than intricate character arcs.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

76% average critic score

Buy Nidhogg

Play time

6hMedian play time
30hAverage play time
1hMain story
6hCompletionist
4-10hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 16 analyzed playthroughs

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