[Mobile] Dungeon Clawler review - "A brilliant and engaging deck builder"

[Wolf.17]

 

Dungeon crawling action and classic arcade fun collide in Dungeon Clawler, a new deck builder from Stray Fawn Studio. You play as an adorable yet spunky rabbit, Sir Bunalot, who must fight tooth and claw to reclaim his paw after a night of gambling goes wrong. Battle baddies in turn-based claw machine-inspired combat as you build and upgrade your deck and explore the Dungeon Lord's lair.

As you progress, you'll unlock new playable characters, such as Squiddy, a green squid in a fishbowl, and the overall-wearing Bennie Beaver. Each character has a distinct starter deck and perk. For instance, Squiddy’s second claw is a tentacle that objects stick to while Count Clawcula heals himself for 10% of all damage dealt to enemies. 

Further, the first time you beat all 20 stages as a new character, you’ll earn the character paw back. Unlocked paws will be available as items to add to your deck to allow one character to use another’s perk. 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.

 

After using both claws, your enemies will get a turn to attack. There's not much you can do to avoid incoming attacks. Therefore, it's best to try to up your shield level by grabbing a few shields from the machine during your turn. Luckily, the claw can pick up multiple items, so as long as you angle it right, you won't have to choose between attacking, shielding yourself, or healing up.

You can view your deck by tapping the backpack on the right side of the screen. Objects you can grab from the machine include weapons, buff items, shields, potions, and bits of fluff that cushion your gear. 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.

https://www.pocketgamer.com/dungeon-clawler/review/