🐾 Review: Devious Dungeon Video
Played on: [Steam/PC] · Release: [2019] · Designer/Studio: [Ratalaika] · Time: [⏱ 60m] · Players: [1] · Store Link : Devious Dungeon
TL;DR: A charming retro hack and slash that keeps you running through dungeons with the enthusiasm of a pup chasing treasure in the dark.
Would I play this instead of tidying the kitchen? [Absolutely].
What is it?
Devious Dungeon is a side scrolling action platformer with light RPG elements. You explore randomly generated dungeon floors, defeat monsters, collect loot and upgrade your gear as you push deeper into the castle. It focuses on simple controls, repeatable runs and a steady sense of progression.
How it Plays
Each run starts with basic equipment and a goal to reach the portal at the end of each room. You jump between platforms, fight enemies with melee attacks and gather coins and keys. Death returns you to the hub where you can buy better weapons, armour and trinkets. The formula is straightforward but satisfying, with small upgrades and random layouts giving each attempt a sense of momentum.
Overall: 8/10 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾
| Metric | Rating | Notes (Video) |
|---|---|---|
| Tail-Wag Fun 🐾 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | High, with a satisfying mix of combat and upgrades. |
| Fetch-Depth 🎾 | 🐾🐾☆☆☆ | Simple systems but steady progression. |
| Belly-Rub Accessibility ❤️ | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Very high, easy to learn and forgiving. |
| Drool-Worthy Presentation 💧 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Good, with clean retro visuals. |
| Zoomies & Flow 💨 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Strong, with quick runs and smooth pacing. |
| Treat Value 🍪 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Very good, well suited for short sessions and repeat play. |
Good Doggo (Pros)
- Smooth and responsive combat that feels good from the first swing.
- Addictive progression loop with upgrades that make each run feel worthwhile.
- Retro pixel art and simple sound design that fit the tone perfectly.
Ruff Spots (Cons)
- Room layouts can feel repetitive after long sessions.
- Limited enemy variety reduces the challenge over time.
- Story is minimal and mostly serves as a backdrop.
Verdict
Devious Dungeon succeeds through its simplicity and charm. It is not a complex roguelite, but it delivers a very enjoyable loop of fighting, collecting and improving that works beautifully in short bursts. For fans of retro action and light progression systems, it offers a rewarding and dependable experience that holds up across many runs.
Recommendation Tier : 🐾🐾🐾🐾 – Good Doggo
Legend: 0 🐾 Ruff · 1–2 🐾 Patchy · 3 🐾 Solid Sit · 4 🐾 Good Doggo · 5 🐾 Chef’s Kiss
