When Pure Nintendo evaluated the fantasy-themed action platformer Dark Scrolls on the Nintendo Switch, the publication issued a 6 out of 10 score, concluding that the title serves as an uninspiring but functional time-waster for fans of sidescrollers.
Quick Facts
- Platform: Nintendo Switch
- Review Score: 6/10 (Pure Nintendo)
- Multiplayer: Local and online co-op
- Hero Roster: Three initial heroes, expanding up to nine
Gameplay and Progression Findings
Publisher descriptions characterize Dark Scrolls as a mash-up of shmup-style chaos and roguelite progression, but the review notes that these genre similarities feel rather generous. The game starts players in a small hamlet before sending them into procedurally generated runs of hand-crafted rooms where they must shoot and hack through enemies.
According to the review, a major sticking point for solo players is the lack of save points and mid-level check-ins. Players have only one life to clear an entire level from start to boss. Taking too many hits forces a restart from the very beginning of the stage without even the option to skip the intro cutscene, leading to a repetitive grind after about thirty minutes of play.
Controls and Technical Caveats
While the basic sidescrolling controls—using directional movement and a jump button—are mostly easy to manage, reviewers highlighted a couple of minor quirks. Jumping near the top of the screen often causes characters to hit their heads on the top of the game world, creating a rebound effect that makes reaching treasure chests on high platforms frustratingly difficult.
Additionally, firing a weapon while changing direction with the joystick does not automatically change the direction of the projectile. Players must stop firing, turn around, and start shooting again, a mechanical constraint that can lead to accidental deaths if not factored into movement habits.
Audio and Co-Op Strengths
On the positive side, the review praises the game's audio presentation, noting that the whimsical music and fitting sound effects suit the action well. Furthermore, the inclusion of local and online cooperative play offers a much smoother experience. Reviewers found that teaming up with a friend makes navigating levels significantly easier through combo attacks and player revivals.
Ultimately, the review suggests that while Dark Scrolls features familiar mechanics and a budget-friendly price point, it lacks originality and suffers from a rigid checkpoint system that wears thin during extended play sessions.