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Endless Dungeon

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Endless Dungeon
Item: Endless Dungeon
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAction, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 19, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperAmplitude Studios

Overview

Endless Dungeon is a Rogue-lite Tactical Action game, set in the award-winning Endless universe. Recruit a team of shipwrecked heroes, plunge into a long-abandoned space station, and protect your crystal against never-ending waves of monsters… or die trying, get reloaded, and try again.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Endless Dungeon impresses with its charming characters and humor, drawing praise for its engaging writing and intriguing setting. However, critics overwhelmingly find the narrative underwhelming, describing it as generic and lacking depth. While the characters shine, the story falls flat, serving more as background noise than a compelling force, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the story of Endless Dungeon reveal a few positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Several reviewers appreciate the game's character writing and humor, noting that the cast of heroes brings charm and distinct personalities to the narrative. For instance, God is a Geek commends the "charming cast of heroes and genuine humor," while Press Start Australia praises the "exceptional narrative writing for the characters, setting, and lore of the universe." Additionally, the game’s setting within the Endless universe, as mentioned by IGN Italia and The Games Machine, adds a layer of intrigue, with the backdrop of a mysterious space station and the remnants of a technologically advanced civilization providing a rich tapestry for exploration and storytelling. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story of Endless Dungeon leans towards the negative, with many critics describing the narrative as generic or lacking depth. IGN Adria points out that the narrative is "somewhat expected for the genre," while Game Rant states that the story is "generic and can be ignored without much impact." Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG emphasize the "paper-thin narrative" and "dull characters," suggesting that the story fails to maintain player interest despite a potentially engaging premise. This sentiment is echoed by Checkpoint Gaming, who acknowledges that while the story isn't special, it does impact the personal missions of the characters, indicating a disconnect between the narrative and player engagement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that while Endless Dungeon offers an engaging cast of characters and a visually appealing setting, the overarching narrative is perceived as weak and unremarkable. Many reviewers, including Games.cz and PC Gamer, agree that the story serves more as a backdrop to gameplay rather than a driving force. Overall, the game seems to prioritize character-driven storytelling and humor over a compelling plot, leading to a mixed reception where the charm of the characters is noted, yet the narrative itself leaves much to be desired.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Endless Dungeon impresses with its genre-blending gameplay, combining twin-stick shooting with tower defense and roguelite elements, earning praise for strategic depth and procedural environments. However, criticisms of repetitiveness, shallow gameplay, and limited single-player AI hinder its potential. While the initial thrill captivates, the lack of variety and depth may lead to waning interest over time. A promising concept that needs refinement for lasting engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Endless Dungeon has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its innovative combination of genres. Many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and Impulsegamer, highlight the successful fusion of twin-stick shooter mechanics with tower defense and roguelite elements, creating an engaging and strategic experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GamingTrend appreciate the added layers of strategy that come from resource management and team dynamics, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in multiplayer modes. The game’s procedural generation of environments is also noted positively, as it provides a fresh experience with each run, keeping players on their toes and encouraging exploration, as mentioned by MMORPG.com and PC Gamer. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the repetitiveness and lack of depth in gameplay. Reviewers like TechRadar Gaming and Eurogamer point out that while the initial gameplay loop is engaging, it can quickly become monotonous, with limited character differentiation and a lack of variety in encounters. Critics such as PLAY! Zine and GGRecon echo these sentiments, noting that the gameplay can feel simplistic, especially in single-player mode where AI limitations hinder the experience. Additionally, some reviewers, like TRG, express dissatisfaction with the combat encounters, suggesting that they lack the satisfaction expected from a game of this nature. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Endless Dungeon offers a compelling blend of genres and a strategic gameplay experience, it is marred by issues of repetitiveness and limited depth. Many reviewers appreciate the initial thrill and strategic elements, as highlighted by GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis, but caution that the game may struggle to maintain player engagement over time due to its repetitive nature, as noted by IGN Adria and TechRadar Gaming. Ultimately, Endless Dungeon presents a promising concept that may benefit from further refinement to enhance its longevity and replayability.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Endless Dungeon has received rave reviews for its vibrant, cartoonish art style, blending western and cyberpunk aesthetics reminiscent of Hades and Borderlands. Critics applaud its beautiful graphics and smooth performance, enhancing gameplay. However, some point out issues with cluttered interfaces and repetitive visuals that could hinder clarity. Overall, its striking design is a standout feature, contributing to an engaging and immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Endless Dungeon have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game's vibrant and colorful art style, which is often described as a blend of cartoonish and comic book aesthetics. IGN Adria noted the "beautiful" graphics reminiscent of titles like Hades and Borderlands, while IGN Italia highlighted the impressive art direction that merges western and cyberpunk styles. Critics such as Eurogamer and Game Rant echoed similar sentiments, commending the charming visuals and eye-candy isometric graphics that enhance the overall gameplay experience. The smooth performance during intense gameplay scenarios, as mentioned by CGMagazine, further solidifies the game's visual appeal, showcasing its ability to handle large numbers of characters and effects without compromising quality. Despite the acclaim, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the game's visual presentation. MeuPlayStation mentioned that while the 2D visuals are well-executed, the interface can be cluttered, with small text sizes that may hinder gameplay. Additionally, Multiplayer.it raised concerns about the high number of enemies leading to confusion and reduced readability on the screen. GGRecon noted that while the enemy designs are solid, the visuals can become repetitive over time. These critiques suggest that while the overall aesthetic is strong, there are areas where clarity and differentiation could be improved to enhance player experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Endless Dungeon boasts an impressive visual design that significantly contributes to its charm and appeal. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's artistic direction, with many highlighting its colorful and engaging environments. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Press Start Australia emphasized how the visuals complement the game's atmosphere, creating an immersive experience. While there are minor issues regarding interface clarity and visual repetition, the general sentiment is that the graphics of Endless Dungeon are a standout feature, making it a visually captivating title in the current gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Endless Dungeon is receiving rave reviews for its exceptional sound design and music, with critics praising Lera Lynn's captivating soundtrack that enriches the game's immersive atmosphere. Highlights include a blend of Western guitars and synth elements, coupled with haunting vocals that elevate gameplay. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, some critiques mention a lack of detail on sound effects and the absence of dissenting opinions. Overall, the audio experience is deemed crucial to the game's success, creating a memorable and engaging journey for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Endless Dungeon have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's ability to enhance its atmosphere through a well-crafted audio experience. IGN Adria highlights how the music complements the game's visuals, creating a cohesive aesthetic that immerses players in its world. IGN Italia also commends the technical aspects, noting the captivating soundtrack by Lera Lynn, which adds depth to the overall experience. MeuPlayStation describes the soundtrack as "phenomenal," drawing inspiration from space operas and effectively contrasting the inviting environments with the tension of the floor sectors. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the excellent quality of the score, with the former mentioning the fusion of Western guitars and synth themes, while the latter notes the catchy and haunting vocal tracks that elevate the gameplay. Despite the overwhelming positivity, there are a few critiques worth mentioning. While most reviewers focus on the strengths of the soundtrack, some do not delve deeply into the specifics of sound design beyond general praise. For instance, while Game Rant acknowledges the appealing soundtrack, it lacks detail on how sound effects contribute to the experience. Additionally, while the majority of opinions are favorable, there is a slight absence of dissenting voices that could provide a more balanced perspective on any potential shortcomings in the sound design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Endless Dungeon excels in its sound design and music, significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the soundtrack, with many noting how it complements the game's themes and atmosphere. Critics like PC Gamer and Press Start Australia emphasize the rich soundscape and stellar sound design, respectively, which contribute to the game's tension and immersive storytelling. This collective enthusiasm suggests that the audio elements of Endless Dungeon are not only well-executed but also integral to the game's success, creating a memorable and engaging experience for players.

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

TL;DR: Endless Dungeon shines on PC with solid performance and automatic adjustments, earning praise from critics. However, it struggles on PS5 with a frustrating 30 FPS cap and performance drops. While many technical issues have been identified across platforms—such as glitches, online problems, and bugs—the game shows promise but needs refinement to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Endless Dungeon varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths on PC. Critics like GamingBolt and God is a Geek praised the game for its solid performance and seamless operation, indicating that it runs well on a variety of systems and adjusts settings automatically, as mentioned by Player 2. The game has also been reported to perform well on the Steam Deck, which is a positive sign for portable gaming. Additionally, GamingTrend characterized the game as technically competent, suggesting that it maintains stable performance throughout gameplay. However, the negative aspects of the technical performance cannot be overlooked. On the PlayStation 5, MeuPlayStation highlighted a frustrating limitation of 30 FPS, with noticeable drops during intense moments, which detracts from the overall experience. On PC, several critics reported various issues, including glitches that can affect gameplay (Checkpoint Gaming) and problems with online capabilities, such as progress being erased and audio issues in the in-game chat (CGMagazine). Furthermore, SECTOR.sk pointed out technical issues like characters getting stuck and accidental tower building, while Press Start Australia noted the presence of bugs, although the developers are aware and plan to address them. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed technical performance for Endless Dungeon. While the game demonstrates solid performance and optimization on PC, with many reviewers acknowledging its competence, there are still significant issues that need addressing, particularly concerning multiplayer functionality and occasional bugs. On the other hand, the experience on PS5 is marred by performance limitations that could hinder enjoyment. As a result, while there are several positives to be found, particularly on PC, the game still requires further refinement to enhance its technical performance across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Endless Dungeon garners mixed reviews: praised for its roguelite mechanics and cooperative multiplayer, but criticized for a repetitive loop and lack of engaging content. While some find replay value in character variety and strategy, others warn of grindiness and quick progression that dulls long-term appeal. Its potential shines, yet risks falling flat for players wanting a richer experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Endless Dungeon present a mixed bag of perspectives, with several critics highlighting its positive aspects. Reviewers such as MeuPlayStation and IGN emphasize the game's roguelite elements, which offer a unique arrangement of scenes and a loop system where death is not the end, thus encouraging players to experiment with different strategies. The cooperative multiplayer mode, praised by IGN Italia and Impulsegamer, adds another layer of engagement, allowing up to three players to tackle the challenges together. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Hardcore Gamer appreciate the variety of characters and their unique abilities, suggesting that players will invest time exploring different combinations and playstyles, which can make each run feel meaningful. However, there are notable criticisms that point to significant limitations in the game's replayability. Eurogamer and GGRecon argue that the lack of interesting content to unlock and a repetitive gameplay loop can diminish long-term engagement. Critics like GamingBolt and TechRadar Gaming echo these sentiments, stating that runs can feel samey and that the absence of compelling mechanics and narrative can lead to a tedious experience. The feeling of grindiness and slow character progression mentioned by Player 2 further compounds the issue, as does the rapid unlocking of permanent upgrades noted by SECTOR.sk, which can reduce motivation for subsequent runs. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a divided sentiment regarding the replay value of Endless Dungeon. While some reviewers, like Game Rant and MGG, find merit in the game's roguelike nature and cooperative gameplay, others, including IGN Adria and TechRadar Gaming, express concerns about its repetitiveness and lack of compelling content. This dichotomy indicates that while Endless Dungeon offers potential for replayability through its mechanics and multiplayer options, it may ultimately fall short for players seeking a more varied and engaging experience over the long term.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Endless Dungeon" from various critics highlights several positive aspects of the game. Many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and Hardcore Gamer, commend the game for its engaging gameplay mechanics and impressive visuals. Critics like Impulsegamer and Jeuxvideo.com appreciate the successful blend of genres, noting that the game effectively combines tower defense, roguelikes, and twin-stick shooter elements to create a unique experience. The cooperative mode is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with several reviewers, including MMORPG.com and SECTOR.sk, emphasizing that multiplayer gameplay enhances the overall enjoyment and provides a more fulfilling experience. Additionally, the game has been noted for its addictive gunplay mechanics and strategic depth, as highlighted by MeuPlayStation and GamingBolt. However, despite its strengths, "Endless Dungeon" suffers from a range of issues that detract from its overall appeal. Critics like IGN Adria and Eurogamer point out the game's repetitiveness and lack of compelling narrative, which can lead to diminished replayability. MeuPlayStation and TechRadar Gaming echo these sentiments, citing problems such as unbalanced single-player gameplay, slow progression, and performance instabilities. Furthermore, several reviewers, including GamingTrend and PLAY! Zine, suggest that the game falls short in providing standout features within the crowded roguelite genre, leading to a feeling of dissatisfaction. The lack of engaging character development and shallow gameplay elements are also noted as significant drawbacks by critics like TRG and TheGamer. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Endless Dungeon" is a solid title with a strong foundation and enjoyable gameplay, particularly in cooperative settings. While it successfully merges genres and offers a visually appealing experience, many reviewers agree that it is marred by repetitiveness, a lack of depth in narrative and gameplay, and issues with single-player balance. Critics like Game Rant and The Games Machine highlight that while the game is fun and has its merits, it ultimately leaves players wanting more, suggesting that it may be worth waiting for future patches and updates to address its shortcomings.

TL;DR

"Endless Dungeon" impresses with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and fun cooperative play, but suffers from repetitiveness, weak narrative, and unbalanced single-player experience. Critics say it’s enjoyable but ultimately leaves players craving more depth and refinement, suggesting a wait for updates.

MONSTER

Reviews

57 reviews found

Impulsegamer

Oct 17, 2023