Gamefings logoimg

Review of Cuphead on Nintendo Switch

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Apr 2019
Cover image of Cuphead on Switch
Gamefings Score: 9.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 18 Apr 2019
Genre: Run and Gun
Developer: Studio MDHR
Publisher: Studio MDHR

Introduction

Imagine a world painted with the nostalgic brush of 1930s animation and humor, where your head is literally a cup, and your enemy is an octopus with a gambling problem. Welcome to Cuphead, a revival of the run-and-gun genre that’s as punishing as it is beautiful. Released for the Nintendo Switch, Cuphead serves up a hot cup of challenge and charm, topped off with generous sprinkles of style. Put down your cup of coffee (don't spill it!) and take a seat as we dive into the world of Cuphead.

Gameplay

Cuphead and his buddy Mugman traverse the enchanting yet treacherous Inkwell Isle, collecting contracts from debtors who owe armed money to the Devil. It’s essentially a boss fight extravaganza interspersed with chaotic run-and-gun action. With infinite lives (thank goodness, right?), players will have all the chances they need to memorize enemy patterns and learn from their mistakes, which is definitely an understatement considering you’ll likely die... a lot. The gameplay elegantly marries tight controls with a steep difficulty curve that leaves players on the edge of their seat, sweating like a gamer at a family gathering. The dynamic duo can equip various weapons and abilities – think of them like loadouts in a battle royale, but instead of slaying foes, you’re trying not to get slapped by a giant tomato—but that’s definitely a less common occurrence. Optional co-op mode lets a second player jump in, risking their life alongside you (what a friend!).

Graphics

Cuphead’s graphics are a feast for the eyes. Hand-drawn animations that pay homage to classic cartoons create a visual treat reminiscent of a late-night cartoon binge on a rainy day. Each level feels like stepping into a new, beautifully crafted paint palette filled with vibrant colors and whimsical characters. And let’s not forget the watercolor backgrounds, which make you think, 'Yes, I’d love to live in a world like this—right before all the boss fights start!' The animations are fluid, lively, and littered with those delightful little imperfections that remind you that not everything has to be super crisp to be charming. With a solid, silky-smooth frame rate, it’s a wonder how they managed to combine retro aesthetics with modern gameplay—as if Pixar decided to create a gaming division and hired your favorite cartoonists as interns.

Conclusion

Cuphead is more than just a hard-as-nails experience; it’s an adventure that immerses you in a whimsical world filled with nostalgia. The humor, artistry, and delightful soundtrack blend together to create a product that challenges the player while warming the cockles of your heart with its charm. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just someone looking for a cute title to play when your friends are over, Cuphead is a must-try. Just don’t blame us when you’re left frustrated, shouting at the screen, or your best friend mocks you for rage-quitting. Trust us, Cuphead’s magic is worth it. Grab an extra cup of coffee—you'll need it!

See Latest Prices for Cuphead on Switch on Amazon

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Forza Horizon 5 Takes a Pit Stop on PS5'
Tanya Krane - 31 Jan 2025
In a move that's left gamers doing double-takes and Xbox loyalists clutching their controllers a little tighter, <strong>Forza Hor...
image for news article 'Astro Bot's Galactic Sweep at The Game Awards 2024'
Max Rathon - 13 Dec 2024
In a twist that left even the most cynical gamers doing a double-take, <em>Astro Bot</em> rocketed past the competition to snag th...
image for news article 'PlayStation's 30th Anniversary Events'
Hemal Harris - 06 Dec 2024
Greetings, fellow gamers and button-mashers! As we commemorate three decades of PlayStation, it's time to dust off those memory ca...
image for news article 'Xbox Year in Review 2024: A Hilarious Recap'
Tanya Krane - 06 Dec 2024
Greetings, esteemed gamers and joystick jesters! As 2024 takes its final bow, it's time to don our virtual party hats and revel in...
image for news article 'PS5 Pro: The Mega-Souped-Up Console That’ll Melt Your Brain (And Wallet)'
Hemal Harris - 10 Oct 2024
Alright, gamers. Ready for your wallet to cry? Say hello to the PS5 Pro, the next-gen beast that’s about to rock your gaming life ...
image for news article 'The Wacky History of Platform Games'
Chucky - 04 Oct 2024
Platform games - the genre that made us believe we could jump higher, run faster, and collect floating coins while avoiding spike ...
image for news article 'Xbox is turning 25!'
Gemma Looksby - 23 Sep 2024
So, Xbox and Halo are turning 25 soon, and Microsoft’s like, “Dude, we HAVE to party!”...
image for news article 'PS5 Disc Console vs. PS5 Digital Edition: Which One Should You Get?'
Jay Aborro - 20 Sep 2024
Compare the PS5 Disc Edition and PS5 Digital Edition, highlighting key differences such as price, physical media capability, and c...