Dungeon Clawler review – “A brilliant and engaging deck builder”

by

  • Engaging turn-based combat with claw machine mechanic
  • Procedurally generated levels keep the dungeon feeling fresh
  • Unlock new playable characters with distinct perks, like special claws

As a seasoned gamer with a heart that beats for unique and engaging experiences, I must say that Dungeon Clawler has left me absolutely enchanted! The blend of deck building mechanics with the classic charm of claw machines is nothing short of genius.

In the game Dungeon Clawler by Stray Fawn Studio, the excitement of dungeon exploration meets the thrill of classic arcade gaming. You take on the role of a lively rabbit named Sir Bunalot, who finds himself in a predicament after an unfortunate night of gambling. Your mission is to retrieve your paw! Engage in turn-based combat reminiscent of claw machines as you strategically construct and improve your deck while delving into the lair of the Dungeon Lord.

As you advance through the game, you’ll gain access to various playable characters like Squiddy, a green squid in a fishbowl, and Bennie Beaver who wears overalls. Each character comes with unique starting decks and special abilities. For example, Squiddy’s second claw is a suction tentacle that attracts objects, whereas Count Clawcula heals himself by 10% for every bit of damage inflicted on enemies.

As a fresh gaming character, conquering all 20 levels for the first time rewards me with regaining control of that character’s paw. Once unlocked, these paws can be added to my collection as deck items, enabling me to tap into other characters’ unique abilities.

The Claw Rules the Battlefield in Dungeon Clawler

You’ll start each battle weaponless. Luckily, you can nab shields, weapons, and other items from the mighty claw machine. You get two claws to use each turn. Simply slide your finger across the screen to move the claw, and then tap the arrow to release it. Any items you snag in the claw will come to you through the prize shoot and be used automatically.

Once you’ve used both your claws in an attack, your opponents will then have a chance to retaliate. With little opportunity for evasion against their attacks, the wisest course of action is to boost your defensive capabilities by snatching some shields from the machine during your turn. Fortunately, the claw allows you to pick up multiple items simultaneously, so if you position it correctly, you won’t need to decide between attacking, defending, or restoring health.

To take a look at your inventory, simply tap the bag icon located on the right side of the screen. This bag contains various items such as weapons, boosters, protective gear like shields and potions, and soft padding for your equipment called fluff.

To start, your deck will only include a few essentials, like daggers and small shields. However, you’ll be rewarded with new items for your deck by beating enemies and using prize wheels.  The Syringe, which deals 10 damage to an enemy adding five damage each time it’s used, and the Double-Bladed Sword, which costs five health but deals 20 damage, are just some of the cool items you can add to your deck.

Dungeon Clawler: Using the Prize Wheel

Between battles, you’ll come across prize rooms. Some of these rooms feature prize wheels that look sort of like a large gumball machine. Tap play, and the wheel will spin and drop two perks as prizes, which you’ll have to choose between. It’s good to keep in mind that purple perks are rare, blue are uncommon, and grey are common.

If by chance you find a rewarding space adorned by an elderly rabbit lounging in a rocker, consider yourself fortunate since these crane games exclusively distribute health boosts and coins. On the other hand, the crane games situated in chambers featuring a harlequin rabbit may contain hazardous objects like spiky balls that inflict harm upon collection, as well as genuine prizes.

Upgrade Your Deck to  Dominate in Dungeon Clawler

You can upgrade shields and weapons at the blacksmith, which you’ll randomly come across as you play. As you’d expect, upgrades give you more of an edge in battle. If you happen to have the blacksmith coupon show up as a rewarding choice after a battle, be sure to snatch it up, as it lets you upgrade one item for free every time you go to the blacksmith. This can be a real lifesaver if you show up to the blacksmith low on coin.

Additionally, a shredder is marked on the floor plan by an icon resembling a trashcan. This is where you can discard unnecessary items to create room for fresh treasures, at the cost of ten coins per item destroyed. Make sure it’s worth disposing of something before you go ahead and shred it.

Dungeon Clawler: No Reviving

If you die in Dungeon Clawler, you’ll have to restart from the beginning. While this can be frustrating, it makes each consecutive battle you win all the more satisfying. Luckily, the 20 dungeon stages are randomly generated, so no two runs will be the same.

Dungeon Clawler is a rather ingenious deck builder. You’ll be entertained by the quirky characters and the unique claw machine mechanic. The engaging, procedurally generated dungeons you’ll explore keep things feeling fresh. You’ll enjoy trying out different characters’ perks and collecting and upgrading new items for your deck. For fans of deck builders and those with a passion for claw machines, Dungeon Clawler is a real prize.

Read More

2024-11-25 15:48