Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island

77%
Game Brain Score Based on 37 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • story
Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island Game Cover
Spike Chunsoft returns to their flagship series with must-play entry for any fan of roguelike RPGs, delivering one of the most mechanically deep games I've played in years.
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Shiren the Wanderer and Koppa arrive at Serpentcoil Island, drawn by a vision of a girl in distress and tales of lost pirate gold. As they explore the island's ever-changing Mystery Dungeons, they uncover secrets and treasures, with a powerful monster and its exquisite treasure waiting at the highest peak. Shiren must navigate the constantly shifting layouts, enemy encounters, and scant but crucial resources of the dungeons to save the girl and uncover the truth.

  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

77%
Audience ScoreBased on 37 reviews
graphics5 positive mentions
story2 negative mentions
  • The game offers a deep and rewarding roguelike experience with a wealth of content and mechanics that cater to both veterans and newcomers.
  • It features beautiful visuals and an engaging narrative, making it a standout entry in the Shiren series.
  • The dynamic online rescue system and multiplayer modes enhance the gameplay, providing additional layers of enjoyment.
  • The game can be punishingly difficult, with permadeaths and bad luck potentially leading to frustrating experiences.
  • Some players may find the inventory management and in-game currency limitations overwhelming.
  • Repetitiveness can set in during longer play sessions, which may deter some players from fully enjoying the experience.
  • gameplay14 mentions

    The gameplay is praised for its depth and addictiveness, making it an excellent entry point for new players while offering advanced mechanics for veterans. It features a captivating setting, refined multiplayer modes, and quality-of-life improvements, alongside a classic roguelike experience filled with secrets and a rich narrative. Although some find it can feel unfair at times, the overall gameplay loop is accessible yet challenging to master, enhanced by engaging visuals and a strong soundtrack.

    • “This latest installment introduces a captivating new setting and multiplayer modes, and also refines the gameplay with quality-of-life improvements.”
    • “And although the gameplay can feel unfair, every attempt to beat it is a joyful run.”
    • “The overall gameplay loop is easy to grasp, but it takes time and patience to master.”
    • “Spike Chunsoft returns to their flagship series with a must-play entry for any fan of roguelike RPGs, delivering one of the most mechanically deep games I've played in years.”
  • graphics6 mentions

    The graphics of the game feature a mix of pleasant 3D visuals and a charming art style, which some players find appealing compared to the prior 2D sprites. While the visuals are generally well-received, there are mixed opinions regarding the overall content and charm, particularly when compared to previous titles in the series. The game successfully combines its graphics with engaging gameplay elements and online features, making it a strong recommendation for roguelike fans.

    • “Combine that with some cool online features and a charming art style, and you’ve got a game that’s an easy recommendation for any roguelike fans out there.”
    • “High difficulty, lots of content to master, charming new art style.”
    • “Classic mystery dungeon gameplay with oodles of clever systems and items, awesome 3D visuals and energetic music, solid online component and sense of humor.”
  • story2 mentions

    Players note that the story unfolds gradually, with more narrative elements becoming apparent the longer they engage with the game, enhancing the overall experience.

    • “The longer it takes you to beat it, the more the story reveals itself.”
    • “The longer it takes you to beat it, the more the story reveals itself.”
  • replayability2 mentions

    Players note that the game offers significant replayability, particularly for those who complete it quickly, suggesting that its design encourages multiple playthroughs.

    • “Even if you finish it quickly, the game has great replay value.”
    • “The variety of choices and outcomes makes each playthrough feel fresh and exciting.”
    • “With multiple endings and different character paths, you'll find yourself coming back for more.”
  • music2 mentions

    The music in the game is praised for its energetic quality, enhancing the classic roguelike experience and complementing the engaging narrative and gameplay. Reviewers highlight the excellent soundtrack as a key element that adds to the overall enjoyment, alongside impressive visuals and clever gameplay systems.

    • “Delivers a classic roguelike experience without feeling old, expertly weaves an enjoyable narrative into the gameplay structure, and features an excellent soundtrack.”
    • “Classic mystery dungeon gameplay with oodles of clever systems and items, awesome 3D visuals, and energetic music.”
    • “The music perfectly complements the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience and immersing players in the game's atmosphere.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

83% average critic score

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