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Cuphead in the Delicious Last Course

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Cuphead in the Delicious Last Course
Item: Cuphead in the Delicious Last Course
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Old-School Style, Side View Perspective

AvailableJun 30, 2022

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperStudio MDHR

Overview

A second helping of Cuphead action awaits on a brand new Inkwell Isle filled with boss battles, secrets, and adventure galore!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course delivers charming, nostalgic whimsy but suffers from a shallow, disjointed narrative that prioritizes gameplay over depth, offering a functional yet unremarkable extension of the series’ style.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The narrative of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course receives mixed but generally favorable remarks, with many critics acknowledging its charm and integration with the game’s aesthetic. Several reviewers highlight its whimsical, cartoonish tone and nostalgic appeal, noting that it aligns with the original game’s 1930s-style storytelling. For instance, Atomix praises the DLC for continuing the dark, layered storytelling of Cuphead, while IGN describes the plot as “charming” despite its brevity. The story’s focus on Ms. Chalice’s quest to regain her physical form through ingredient collection is seen as a natural extension of the game’s themes, with Checkpoint Gaming appreciating its compelling conclusion and mysterious elements. Additionally, Eurogamer Italy and Screen Rant commend the DLC for maintaining the game’s classic cartoon vibe, even if the narrative remains simple. These positives suggest that while the story isn’t groundbreaking, it effectively complements the gameplay experience. However, the majority of critics criticize the narrative for being minimalistic, disconnected, and lacking depth. Many argue that the plot serves more as a framework for gameplay than a cohesive story. WellPlayed and Wccftech note that the storyline is “minimal” and “disconnected from gameplay,” with players not expected to care deeply about the characters or their motivations. Cubed3 and Dexerto point out missed opportunities for narrative cohesion, such as the battle against Chef Saltbaker feeling isolated from the broader plot. Similarly, PC Gamer and Eurogamer Italy criticize the lack of character development, with bosses often reduced to “mechanical puzzles” rather than fully realized entities. Even Nintenduo acknowledges the story’s “lack of coherence,” though it finds satisfaction in its chaotic, personal ending. These critiques underscore a widespread perception that the DLC prioritizes gameplay over storytelling, leaving the narrative feeling underdeveloped. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Delicious Last Course’s story is functional but not exceptional, with most agreeing that it serves as a nostalgic, lightweight extension of Cuphead’s universe. While some praise its charm and integration with the game’s themes—such as AusGamers’ observation of its “simple setup for the game’s themes” or Malditos Nerds’ acknowledgment of its creative expansion—the majority view it as a secondary element to the gameplay. The DLC’s narrative is seen as a trade-off between accessibility and depth, with critics like GamingBolt and GameGrin noting its minimalism but appreciating its role in expanding the game’s world. Ultimately, while the story isn’t a standout feature, it aligns with the series’ identity, offering a satisfying if unassuming experience for fans.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics praised Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course for its inventive gameplay, fresh mechanics like Ms. Chalice’s abilities, and enhanced replayability through bosses, upgrades, and co-op—though some called out uneven difficulty curves, underwhelming additions, and control quirks. Overall, it’s a bold, rewarding expansion that elevates the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course for its innovative mechanics and expanded challenges. Reviewers highlighted the introduction of Ms. Chalice as a playable character, whose unique abilities—such as double-jump, dash parries, and roll mechanics—added fresh dynamics to the experience (GamersRD, Press Start Australia, and Launcher). New bosses, weapon upgrades, and difficulty modes were frequently lauded for enhancing replayability and depth, with IGN noting the "balance of challenge and fairness" and GameSpew emphasizing that the DLC "retains the game's challenging core." The inclusion of co-op support, charm systems, and mini-boss challenges like the King’s Leap tournament (e.g., Multiplayer.it, Gfinity) further enriched the gameplay. Critics like Pure Nintendo and Cubed3 appreciated the strategic depth offered by Ms. Chalice’s mechanics, while others, such as PC Gamer, praised the "time trial mentality" and skill-based progression. Overall, the DLC was seen as a natural evolution of the original game’s formula, offering veterans and newcomers alike a robust set of challenges. However, some criticisms emerged regarding specific aspects of the gameplay. A few reviewers noted issues with the difficulty curve, particularly the abrupt jump in challenge when transitioning from Simple to Regular mode (AusGamers) or the inconsistency between early and later bosses (Malditos Nerds). The absence of run-and-gun levels, replaced by a boss-rush focus, was mentioned as a trade-off by Jeuxvideo.com and PCMag, though others like But Why Tho? viewed it as an improvement. Additionally, some mechanics, such as new weapons (e.g., the Crackshot) or mini-bosses, were criticized for being underwhelming or predictable (WellPlayed, CD-Action). Control quirks, like Ms. Chalice’s altered movement or Czarka’s sliding mechanics, also drew mixed reactions, with CD-Action pointing out "control issues" that occasionally hindered the experience. While these critiques highlight areas for refinement, they were generally seen as minor drawbacks compared to the DLC’s overall strengths. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with many deeming The Delicious Last Course a worthwhile expansion. The gameplay’s core challenge and creativity remained intact, while new mechanics and content provided substantial value. IGN and Game Informer emphasized the "innovation in combat" and "skill development," while reviewers like Nintenduo and Push Square acknowledged the DLC’s ability to "redefine the original Cuphead experience." Even when pointing out flaws, critics such as Malditos Nerds and WellPlayed conceded that the gameplay “retains the core mechanics of the original” and offered a rewarding experience for dedicated players. The majority agreed that the DLC successfully expanded Cuphead’s legacy, balancing difficulty with creativity and ensuring it remains a standout entry in the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course is a visual masterpiece, dazzling with 1930s hand-drawn animation, lush retro aesthetics, and meticulous artistry that rivals Disney’s golden age. Critics praise its theatrical charm, inventive environments, and faithful yet expanded design, calling it "sublime" and "impeccable." While minor critiques note occasional repetition and fast-paced action overshadowing detail, the DLC’s artistic ambition and consistency cement it as a standout achievement in gaming visuals.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course are universally celebrated as a masterful achievement, with critics consistently praising its commitment to the 1930s Disney and Fleischer-era cartoon aesthetics. Many reviewers highlight the meticulous hand-drawn animation, vibrant character designs, and theatrical presentation that evoke the golden age of cartoons. For instance, IGN notes the "exceptional" detailed animations and transformative boss phases, while PCMag applauds the "gorgeous retro cartoon aesthetic" and improved animation quality on the Nintendo Switch OLED Model. The DLC’s new environments, such as Isle IV’s lush backgrounds and dynamic scenes, are lauded for their creativity, with DualShockers emphasizing stop-motion sequences and intricate background art like giant faces on mountains. Critics like GameGrin and But Why Tho? praise the seamless blend of watercolor aesthetics and classic animation, while Eurogamer Italy highlights the "meticulous attention to detail" in characters, bosses, and environments. The visual consistency with the original game is a recurring theme, with Nintenduo and Nintenderos noting that new designs remain faithful to the 1930s style while expanding its scope. While the majority of critiques are overwhelmingly positive, some reviewers point to minor shortcomings. PC Gamer notes that fast-paced action can overshadow the artistry, making it difficult to appreciate the visuals during intense moments. Nintenduo criticizes the limited number of new designs despite high visual quality, suggesting some repetition from the original game. Additionally, LevelUp mentions that themed levels like the desert and insect mafia are described generally without deep dives into specific visual details. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the widespread acclaim, with most reviewers acknowledging that any shortcomings are outweighed by the game’s artistic ambition and execution. The overall consensus among critics is that Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course is a visual masterpiece, with its hand-drawn 1930s-style animation and meticulous design earning near-unanimous praise. Reviewers like Push Square and Switch Player describe the animation as "sublime" and "the lifeblood of Cuphead," while GameSkinny calls it "impeccable." The DLC’s ability to expand on the original’s aesthetic without losing its charm is a key strength, with Metro GameCentral noting "incredible" visuals and more ambitious animations than the base game. Even critics who mention minor flaws, such as Nintenduo’s critique of reused designs, acknowledge the high quality of the art. Ultimately, the game’s dedication to its unique visual identity—celebrated by outlets like Cubed3, Game Rant, and Wccftech—cements it as a standout achievement in gaming aesthetics, with most critics agreeing that it is a true masterpiece.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics raved about Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course’s 1930s-inspired jazz, swing, and orchestral scores, calling them essential to its nostalgic charm and immersive retro vibe. A live orchestra, catchy tunes like High Noon Hoopla, and seamless gameplay integration earned praise from outlets like Game Informer and Destructoid, with many hailing it as one of gaming’s best soundtracks. Minor critiques about sound effects or track quantity were overshadowed by universal acclaim for its musical excellence, cementing the DLC as a love letter to classic animation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course received widespread acclaim, with critics consistently praising their ability to enhance the game’s nostalgic, 1930s-inspired aesthetic. Reviewers highlighted the soundtrack’s seamless integration with the gameplay, noting its jazz, swing, and orchestral elements as central to the experience. Game Informer called the score “one of the best in gaming,” while Checkpoint Gaming emphasized the “jaunty soundtrack” that immerses players in a “nostalgic atmosphere.” Destructoid praised the “incredible marriage of music and visuals” during boss battles, and Gfinity noted the inclusion of a live orchestra, elevating the DLC’s musical excellence. The jazz-inspired themes, such as Kristofer Maddigan’s new tracks like High Noon Hoopla (Push Square) or the “catchy barbershop tunes” (GameGrin), were frequently lauded for their charm and emotional resonance. Even critics who didn’t delve deeply into specifics, like Eurogamer Italy or Hobby Consolas, acknowledged the soundtrack’s cohesion with the game’s retro style, underscoring its role as a defining feature of Cuphead’s identity. While the majority of reviews celebrated the music, some critiques pointed to minor shortcomings. Metro GameCentral criticized the sound effects as “wimpish” and lacking feedback, which detracted from immersion, while PSX Brasil noted that the soundtrack, though good, was sometimes overshadowed by intense gameplay moments. LevelUp mentioned a reduction in song quantity compared to the original game, and Wccftech acknowledged limited elaboration on specific audio details. These points were relatively rare, however, and often framed as minor drawbacks rather than major flaws. Even critics like Noisy Pixel, who praised the “satisfying sound design” of parry mechanics, acknowledged that the music’s impact was occasionally eclipsed by the game’s challenge. Nonetheless, these critiques did not overshadow the overall enthusiasm for the soundtrack’s creativity and execution. The consensus among critics overwhelmingly favors The Delicious Last Course’s sound design and music, with many considering them a standout aspect of the DLC. The 1930s-inspired jazz and orchestral scores were repeatedly praised for their ability to elevate the game’s retro charm and emotional depth, as noted by Game Rant, who called the soundtrack “a perfect match” for the aesthetic, and XboxEra, which highlighted its “immersive auditory experience.” Even in cases where specific elements were less detailed—such as with Wccftech or Pocket Tactics—the general sentiment leaned toward admiration. The DLC’s musical contributions, whether through expanded orchestration (Gfinity) or genre experimentation (Push Square), reinforced the game’s reputation as a love letter to classic animation. While not universally flawless, the music and sound design were consistently regarded as essential to Cuphead’s success, with critics like GameGrin and Nintenderos emphasizing their role in preserving the original’s “musical excellence” while adding fresh, engaging layers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course delivers rock-solid technical performance across platforms, with praise for stability, polish, and optimizations—PC, Xbox One, and Switch all shine, while minor quirks (like control hiccups or glitches) are deemed trivial compared to its overall excellence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course across platforms was largely praised by critics, with most highlighting its stability and polish. On PC, reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming noted the DLC’s bug-free execution and smooth gameplay, while TierraGamer emphasized improved fluidity on new-gen systems, acknowledging platform-specific optimizations as a notable achievement. For Xbox One, Gamer.nl and Generación Xbox praised minor enhancements such as weapon adjustments and smoother traversal, with the latter calling the game “technically polished” despite minor collision quirks. On Nintendo Switch, multiple critics—such as Atomix, Nintenderos, and Pure Nintendo—highlighted stable frame rates (1080p when docked, 60fps), efficient use of the Unity engine, and no major technical issues, with The Games Machine specifically noting “no technical issues” on the platform. The DLC’s performance built on the original’s success, particularly on Switch, where Nintenduo and Switch Player confirmed its seamless integration without significant hiccups. While most reviews were positive, some minor technical drawbacks were noted across platforms. On PC, CD-Action pointed to control issues with Czarka’s slide mechanic, attributing it to input sensitivity rather than major flaws, while Jeuxvideo.com mentioned the absence of online co-op but no specific bugs. On Xbox One, Generación Xbox noted “minor collision quirks,” and on Nintendo Switch, Switch Player reported a white screen glitch during the final boss and an unintended “three wishes” mechanic, though these were deemed trivial setbacks. Despite these issues, they did not detract from the overall polished experience, as most critics emphasized that technical problems were either rare or easily overlooked. The consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that the technical performance of Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course met high standards across all platforms. On PC, Checkpoint Gaming and TierraGamer underscored its smooth execution and optimizations, while on Xbox, SomosXbox highlighted reduced load times and stable performance on the Series X. For Switch, multiple reviewers—Atomix, Nintenderos, and The Games Machine—praised its technical consistency, with Pure Nintendo calling it “top notch.” While minor issues existed, they were framed as negligible compared to the game’s broader success. Critics like Gamer.nl and Generación Xbox noted that even older hardware handled the DLC well, reinforcing the conclusion that Delicious Last Course delivered a technically robust experience, maintaining the series’ reputation for excellence.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Cuphead: Delicious Last Course delivers sharp replayability via new mechanics, difficulty tiers, and hidden challenges, but its 3-4 hour runtime and sparse content leave some wanting more—fans will love its depth, others may find it brief.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics highlight the positive aspects of Cuphead: Delicious Last Course’s replay value, emphasizing its diverse challenges, new mechanics, and content that encourage multiple playthroughs. IGN praises the DLC for offering "multiple difficulty levels, secret challenges, and expert mode," while GameGrin notes the inclusion of "rechallenge base game levels" and Ms. Chalice’s abilities, which add fresh strategies. Eurogamer Italy and Pocket Tactics also commend the game’s focus on mastering boss patterns and varied weapon/item options, suggesting strong replayability despite its brevity. Additionally, critics like Cubed3 and GameSpew highlight new bosses, secret content, and co-op play as key factors that extend engagement. The DLC’s emphasis on mastery—such as "S Rank requirements" (Noisy Pixel) and "parry challenges" (GameRant)—further reinforces its appeal to completionists and skill-driven players. However, several critics point out limitations in the DLC’s replay value due to its short length and occasional lack of substantial new content. LaPS4 and PSX Brasil note that the expansion feels "short (3-4 hours)" for experienced players, while Jeuxvideo.com criticizes its "brevity" and "lack of substantial new content." Pure Nintendo and Malditos Nerds mention that some players may find the DLC less engaging due to its compact scope or uneven difficulty curve. Additionally, GameSkinny and Hobby Consolas acknowledge that while hidden elements and challenges exist, the DLC’s "tightly designed experience" ends abruptly, potentially leaving some players wanting more. These critiques suggest that while the DLC offers meaningful content for fans, its limited duration may not satisfy those seeking extensive post-game longevity. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward a balanced view: most agree that Delicious Last Course significantly enhances Cuphead’s replayability through its new mechanics, difficulty tiers, and hidden challenges, even if it’s not a lengthy expansion. Critics like IGN, GameGrin, and Eurogamer Italy emphasize how features such as Ms. Chalice’s integration, expert modes, and boss gauntlets create compelling reasons to revisit the game. However, the DLC’s brevity remains a recurring concern, with outlets like LaPS4 and Jeuxvideo.com noting that its short runtime may limit long-term appeal for some. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of reviewers conclude that the DLC successfully extends Cuphead’s legacy, offering enough depth and variety to justify multiple playthroughs for fans of the series.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overwhelming consensus among critics highlights The Delicious Last Course as a masterful expansion of Cuphead, celebrated for its exceptional design, creative mechanics, and unwavering commitment to the game’s core identity. Reviewers like PC Gamer and IGN praised its "top-tier content," "stunning visuals," and "innovative boss fights," emphasizing how it elevates the original game’s strengths while introducing fresh elements such as Ms. Chalice and the Heart Ring charm. GameSpot called it a "triumph" that expands Cuphead’s legacy, while DualShockers lauded its "artistry, challenge, and innovation," noting its "chef's-kiss of approval." The DLC’s faithful recreation of the 1930s cartoon aesthetic, combined with its meticulous attention to detail in animations and music, was repeatedly highlighted as a standout feature. GamersRD described it as "exquisite" and "phenomenal," while Everyeye.it called it a "masterful DLC" that improves upon an already near-perfect game. These accolades underscore the DLC’s success in delivering a deeply rewarding experience for fans, even if it leans heavily on the formula that defined the original. Despite its acclaim, several critics pointed to notable shortcomings, particularly its brevity and lack of substantial expansion beyond Cuphead’s established mechanics. LevelUp and CD-Action noted that the DLC feels "too short" compared to expectations, with Hardcore Gamer criticizing an "overpowered weapon" and PC Gamer lamenting missed opportunities for narrative depth. Jeuxvideo.com and LaPS4 highlighted the absence of online co-op and the DLC’s "lack of significant innovation," while GameSpew and Game Informer observed that it feels like "more of the same" without radical changes. Additionally, some reviewers, such as NME and Wccftech, acknowledged minor drawbacks like limited charms and weapons, though these were often framed as minor quibbles in an otherwise polished product. The consensus was that while the DLC excels in quality, its compact scope left some wanting more, particularly in terms of story expansion or gameplay variety. The overall verdict among critics is resoundingly positive, with The Delicious Last Course widely regarded as a masterpiece that solidifies Cuphead’s place as a modern classic. Cubed3 called it a "magnificent conclusion" that sets a new standard for DLC, while Destructoid and GameSpot emphasized its "essential" status for fans despite its brevity. Even critics who acknowledged its limitations, such as Press Start Australia and Pocket Tactics, ultimately recommended it as a "must-buy" or "brilliant addition," underscoring the DLC’s ability to deliver immense value through its technical excellence and creative ambition. The near-universal praise for its artistry, challenge, and emotional resonance—captured in phrases like "feast for the senses" (Guardian) and "gourmet dish" (Nintendo Insider)—reflects a shared belief that The Delicious Last Course is not just a worthwhile expansion but a crowning achievement in Studio MDHR’s oeuvre. While its short length and lack of innovation may deter some, the overwhelming majority of critics agree that it is a triumph worth experiencing.

TL;DR

Critics hail The Delicious Last Course as a masterful, near-perfect DLC, praising its stunning 1930s artistry, innovative boss fights, and faithful expansion of Cuphead's soul—yet call out its brevity, recycled mechanics, and missed narrative chances. A triumph for fans, but not a revolution.

MONSTER

Reviews

77 reviews found

100

Noisy Pixel

Jun 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls the DLC one of the best gaming experiences, praising its masterful boss design, fresh gameplay elements, and ability to complement the original game's excellence.

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100

Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Oct 11, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls The Delicious Last Course a magnificent conclusion to Cuphead, praising its quality content, innovation, and ability to elevate the original game. It sets a new standard for DLC.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Jul 13, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review strongly recommends the DLC, praising its beautiful presentation, challenging gameplay, and innovative boss fights. It is described as a must-play addition to the Cuphead experience.

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100

GameSkinny

Jun 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls the DLC an

100

Launcher (The Washington Post)

Jun 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The DLC is praised as a five-star experience, extending Cuphead's legacy with creative boss fights, artistic visuals, and engaging gameplay. The review expresses hope for future content.

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100

Guardian

Jul 13, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review presents a positive assessment, calling the game a 'feast for the senses' and emphasizing its unique artistic and auditory experience.

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100

Gfinity

Jun 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Delicious Last Course is praised as a worthwhile addition that enhances Cuphead's legacy, offering satisfying challenges and expanding the game's content effectively.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Jul 8, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A highly praised expansion that exceeds expectations, solidifying Cuphead's status as a classic. It combines passion, originality, and quality to create an unforgettable experience, recommended for fans and newcomers alike.

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Digital Chumps

Jul 26, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that The Delicious Last Course is a "treat" and

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COGconnected

Xbox One

Jul 1, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An absolute masterpiece that delivers exceptional boss fights, visuals, and music, making it worth the long wait despite its brevity.

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