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West of Dead Icon
West of Dead

Developer: Upstream Arcade

Publisher: Raw Fury

Challenging
Adventure
Action
Arcade
Roguelike
  • Price: $19.99
  • Release Date: Aug 26, 2020
  • Number of Players: 1
  • Last on Sale: Feb 8, 2024 [$3.99]
  • Lowest Historic Price: $3.90
  • ESRB Rating: T [Teen]
Reviews:
  • While there are many roguelike shooters on the Switch (and quite a few of them are absolutely terrific) none of them plays quite like West of Dead. The biggest change is in the pacing, switching out arcade-style intensity with the more careful action befitting your undead gunslinger. Make no mistake, this game is absolutely a challenge, and in true roguelike fashion it’s not going to compromise it’s level of difficulty for the benefit of your ego in the early going especially. The thing is, once you get over the substantial hump of Chapter 1 (pro hint: unless you like dying don’t take on the Wendigo in the second level, he’s optional) and get your bearings, as well as a few new weapons and items for your arsenal selection, it does let up. Many mechanics for progression and flow take a page from the Dead Cells handbook, a smart move, though unfortunately the build variety and choice in that title isn’t as present here. Though I love the Mignola-esque art style the darkness mixed with funky geometry can sometimes be annoying as you'll get stuck, and the camera that tries to keep a bead on the action can contribute to occasional issues further. Though perhaps this is a title best reserved for the hardcore roguelike fans who know what they’re getting into, the game’s sense of style matched with the voice of Ron Perlman may compel some new blood to the genre as well. Just don’t say you weren’t warned.


    Justin Nation, Score:
    Nindie Choice! [9.0]
2024

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