Minecraft Dungeons

Developer: Mojang Studios
Release: Sep 22nd 2021
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
RPG
Accessible
Cooperative
Charming
Limited Content
Connectivity Issues
Minecraft Dungeons Poster

" Accessible action-adventure RPG with family-friendly fast combat but limited endgame depth "

Minecraft Dungeons Review

Minecraft Dungeons offers a distinctive take on the Minecraft universe by transitioning from sandbox building to an accessible, family-friendly dungeon crawler. It emphasizes fast-paced combat, loot collection, and exploration across varied procedurally generated levels filled with classic Minecraft mobs. The story, while simple and whimsical, effectively supports the action without overshadowing gameplay.

Players appreciate the gear-based customization system that allows for diverse playstyles without rigid classes, enhanced by enchantments that add strategic depth. The cooperative multiplayer, supporting up to four players with cross-platform play, is a standout feature, fostering teamwork and replayability. Visually, it retains Minecraft's iconic blocky charm with improved lighting and animations, accompanied by a fitting soundtrack.

However, some players note limited content at launch, a shallow endgame, lack of loot trading or crafting, and occasional connectivity issues. Despite these, ongoing DLCs and seasonal content have extended its lifespan, making it a rewarding, approachable ARPG for casual and younger audiences.

Highlights

Players highly praise Minecraft Dungeons for its engaging and accessible gameplay mechanics, especially the flexible gear-based customization and enchantment system.

The cooperative multiplayer experience is frequently highlighted as a fun and exciting way to enjoy the game with friends and family, enhanced by cross-platform support.

Visually, the game successfully adapts Minecraft's signature blocky aesthetic with vibrant environments, dynamic lighting, and smooth animations. The whimsical storyline, though simple, complements the action and adds charm without overwhelming the gameplay.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's limited content at launch and a relatively shallow endgame progression that may not satisfy hardcore ARPG fans.

Players also mention the absence of a loot trading or item crafting system, which reduces long-term replayability.

Some find the difficulty scaling and level design inconsistent, with certain enemies and environments feeling more frustrating than rewarding. Connectivity issues, especially in multiplayer, are a noted problem.

Additionally, the discontinuation of updates and DLCs leaves some fans wishing for more ongoing support.

Pros

  • Accessible and family-friendly dungeon crawler with fast-paced combat and loot collection.
  • Flexible gear-based system allows diverse playstyles without rigid classes.
  • Enchantments add strategic depth and personalization to gear.
  • Supports up to four-player co-op locally and online with cross-platform play.
  • Visually charming with vibrant, blocky Minecraft-inspired environments.
  • Smooth animations and dynamic lighting enhance the visual experience.
  • Whimsical, fitting storyline that complements gameplay without overshadowing it.

Cons

  • Limited initial content and shallow endgame progression reduce long-term appeal.
  • No loot trading or item crafting limits hardcore ARPG fans’ engagement.
  • Inconsistent level design and some frustrating enemy mechanics.
  • Connectivity and multiplayer lobby issues disrupt cooperative experience.
  • Discontinuation of updates and DLC disappoints players wanting ongoing support.
  • Some difficulty scaling forces specific builds at higher levels.
  • Repetitive gameplay and grindiness reported at advanced stages.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Fight your way through an exciting action-adventure game, inspired by classic dungeon crawlers and set in the Minecraft universe!

Release Date Sep 22nd 2021
Publisher Xbox Game Studios
Developer Mojang Studios, ‪Double Eleven
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (5,822)
93% Positive 7% Negative