Moonlighter

Moonlighter blends a unique gameplay loop of dungeon crawling and shop management, creating an addictive experience. Players take on the role of Will, a shopkeeper by day and adventurer by night, exploring procedurally generated dungeons to gather loot which is then sold in their shop to upgrade weapons, town facilities, and progress the story. The game features charming pixel art, cozy music, and a satisfying upgrade system that motivates continued play.

However, the game is not without flaws. Many players find the combat clunky and repetitive, with some describing it as janky and frustrating, especially due to hitbox issues and awkward controls. The difficulty can feel uneven, with early dungeons being more challenging than later ones, and the final boss considered overly difficult by some. The shopkeeping mechanic, while initially engaging, can become tedious and spreadsheet-like over time. Technical issues such as persistent bugs and poor controller support on some platforms also detract from the experience. Despite these drawbacks, Moonlighter remains a well-liked indie title with a strong core loop and charm.

Highlights

Players praise Moonlighter's addictive gameplay loop that combines dungeon crawling and shop management seamlessly. The charming pixel art style and cozy, fitting soundtrack contribute to a relaxing yet engaging atmosphere. The upgrade system for weapons and town facilities adds meaningful progression. The procedural generation of dungeons keeps exploration fresh, and the pricing mechanic for selling loot adds a strategic layer. Fans appreciate the game's balance of challenge and accessibility and its unique blend of genres, making it stand out among indie action RPGs.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the clunky and repetitive combat mechanics, with some players frustrated by poor hitboxes and awkward controls. The difficulty curve is uneven, with some dungeons feeling easier than expected and the final boss being excessively hard. The shopkeeping aspect becomes tedious after a while, resembling a spreadsheet rather than an engaging mechanic. Technical issues such as persistent bugs, including an unresolved weapon-switching bug, and limited controller support on certain platforms (notably macOS) also hamper the experience. Additionally, the story and characters are viewed as underdeveloped and bland by some players.