Launches today on Switch, PlayStation, PC and Xbox with the latter two platforms releasing directly into Game Pass.
Opencritic
Metacritic
XB1 | XBS | PC | PS4 | PS5 | Switch
noisypixel - 8/10
When I first booted up Moonscars, I couldn't help initially thinking that this would be a familiar experience to other titles of these genres, such as Blasphemous or Slain: Back from Hell. Though there are comparisons for the genres, I think Moonscars does a great job of standing out amongst the rest. The art is terrific, and the combat feels rewarding despite its intensity and difficulty. While the story isn't gripping, the gothic aesthetic is enticing, and I had a great time trudging through this forlorn adventure.
GameRant - 4/5
Despite minor bugs and a save system that could cause frustration, the core of Moonscars is a pleasurable journey through a crushingly dark world. Black Mermaid's first title is filled with love for the platforming genre, and it shows in every aspect of the game. It will be interesting to see which direction this new developer goes in future titles, or if it will choose to continue to build on the dark and bloody world introduced in Moonscars.
NME - 4/5
Moonscars is a triumph for Black Mermaid. The studio's unique art style brings Moonscars' world to life with flourish, while challenging fights and perilous platforming mean you'll move through this universe with your heart pumping the entire time.
Screenrant - 4/5
Moonscars is an amalgamation of different ideas merged into one 2D Soulslike package, and while a few feel undercooked, the rest manage to tie everything together into an excellent action-RPG experience. The gorgeous visuals are also worth experiencing, as it's rare to see a gameplay pull off an art style as well as Moonscars. The dark world of the clayborne is a fascinating and deadly one, and like its clay protagonist, the player only gets stronger as each death reshapes them.
TheGamer - 3.5/5
Moonscars is a collection of good ideas executed poorly and held back by a baffling story. In the heat of battle with one of the game's well-designed and memorable boss fights, it shines almost as brightly as those it's inspired by. Unfortunately, the saturation of the genre means it's not enough to nail the core mechanics of a soulslike anymore, and Moonscars falls down whenever it tries to stand out. It's a fun enough time if you're wild for the genre, but those looking for something more unique should steer clear.
PSU - 9.5/10
Moonscars is a standout example of what a 2D souls-like should be. From its beautifully atmospheric world, exceptional animations, to its fluid and gratifying combat, makes Moonscars an absolute pleasure to play. A best in class 2D souls-like.
PCInvasion - 6/10
Moonscars has a lot of promising ideas. Unfortunately, the threadbare plot, questionable level design, and odd execution of mechanics hold it back.
Note that there is a fix incoming for a "critical bug" but it will not be available at launch. No timing for the patch has been detailed aside from ASAP as platforms allow.
View: https://twitter.com/PlayHumbleGames/status/1574760936191234051
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