Crypt of the NecroDancer explained

Crypt of the NecroDancer
Developer:Brace Yourself Games
Director:Ryan Clark
Producer:Heather Wilson
Designer:Ryan Clark
Artist:Ted Martens
Composer:Danny Baranowsky
Platforms:Linux, OS X, Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, iOS, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android
Genre:Roguelike, rhythm
Modes:Single-player, Local Co-Op

Crypt of the NecroDancer is a roguelike rhythm game by Brace Yourself Games.[1] The game takes fundamental elements of a roguelike dungeon exploration game and adds a beat-matching rhythm game set to an original soundtrack written by Danny Baranowsky. The player's actions are most effective when moving the character set to the beat of the current song and are impaired when they miss a beat, so it is necessary to learn the rhythmic patterns that the various creatures follow. The mixed-genre game includes the ability to import custom music, and the option to use a dance pad instead of traditional controllers or the keyboard. The game was released for Linux, OS X, and Windows in April 2015, being co-published by Klei Entertainment, for the PlayStation 4 and Vita in February 2016, for the Xbox One in February 2017, and for Nintendo Switch in February 2018. Crypt of the NecroDancer Pocket Edition, developed for iOS, was released in June 2016.

A crossover title, Cadence of Hyrule, featuring music and elements from The Legend of Zelda, was released in June 2019 for the Nintendo Switch. A spin-off game, Rift of the NecroDancer, is set to release in early 2024.

Gameplay

Crypt of the NecroDancer is a top-down 2D roguelike rhythm game in which the player controls one of a selection of characters to explore several levels of an underground dungeon that are procedurally generated, similar to roguelike games.

Players can manipulate their character by using either a dance pad, a keyboard, or a gamepad.[2] Unlike traditional roguelikes, the player can only have their character move or attack if they perform the action on the beat of the music. Enemies drop coins when killed, and killing successive enemies without taking damage or missing a beat increases a coin-scoring multiplier. Failure to match the beat does not directly harm the character in most situations, but does reset the scoring multiplier and may cause the character to be harmed by a nearby monster if they are in their attack path. The character can also be harmed by moving into a monster's path. When the character's health meter empties, the game is over. Monsters move according to predetermined patterns that the player must learn to attack and avoid damage; skeletons, for example, target the player directly, but only move and attack on every other beat.

As the player explores, they will collect new weapons, armor, usable items, and treasure; the player's inventory is automatically managed by the game. Defeating monsters yields several coins that can be used to purchase items from shops within the dungeon. Some diamonds are used for purchasing permanent enhancements to the character's abilities in the game's lobby. The dungeon is divided into four zones of four levels each. The first three levels of each zone require the player to find the exit and defeat a mini-boss to unlock it; the fourth level is a larger boss character that must be defeated to progress further. Also, the player is limited to the length of the song to complete the level; when the song ends, they are automatically sent to the next level through a trapdoor, possibly landing them close to powerful enemies.

The player returns to the game's lobby area after dying or optionally at any time, losing any items, gold, or other equipment, though retaining any diamonds they have found. The lobby features shops where the player can spend those diamonds for permanent upgrades before restarting the game or, if they have completed any zones, accessing the next available zone. The player can also access other game modes, such as "All Zones Mode" in which the player must make their way through the entire crypt without dying. The player initially has access to the main character, Cadence, but new characters with different modes of play also become available as the player completes certain goals: for example, the monk character receives one free item in each shop but immediately dies if he touches gold. Special trainers and other beneficial non-player characters can be rescued from certain zones, and once rescued, will provide services to the player from the main lobby, such as letting the player train against enemies and bosses, or providing items that the player can buy with diamonds and use on their next journey into the crypt.

The songs in the game's soundtracks are ordered in ascending tempo across zones and levels, making deeper levels more challenging than earlier ones. The user additionally has the ability to set custom music for each of the game's levels.[3]

Plot

In the main game, the player controls Cadence, the daughter of a famed treasure hunter who has gone missing. In searching for him, she falls into a crypt controlled by the NecroDancer, who steals Cadence's heart and forces her to challenge his minions to retrieve it.[4] She is forced to fight through the crypt's dungeon with her actions tied to the beat of the music and her heart, so as to stay alive and defeat the NecroDancer.

Near the heart of the crypt, Cadence finds one of the NecroDancer's minions named "Dead Ringer". She defeats him, revealing that it was her missing father and frees him from the NecroDancer's control, allowing him to help her defeat the NecroDancer. They take the NecroDancer's magical golden Lute and use it to kill him, and then use its power to resurrect Cadence's dead mother, Melody. However, they discover that the lute is cursed; Melody must keep playing it forever to sustain her life, but the lute will gradually consume her humanity just as it did to the NecroDancer. Melody enters the crypt in search of answers and a way to break the curse of the lute.

When Melody reaches the end of the crypt, she uses the Golden Lute to resurrect the NecroDancer and find answers, but he attacks and Melody defeats him. The NecroDancer tries to flee but is cast into a crevice by Aria (Melody's mother) who was lying in a coffin with a dagger in her chest and is brought back to life by the Lute. Aria reveals that she knows how to break the curse of the lute, but was betrayed by the NecroDancer and left for dead. Intending to finish what she started, she begins her ascent out of the crypt in search of a shrine that will destroy the lute once and for all.

When Aria reaches the shrine, she is attacked by the lute itself, which mutates into a large monster in an attempt to save itself from destruction. After defeating the lute's monster form, Aria sacrifices her life to destroy the cursed instrument, returning Melody to full life and allowing her to return to her family, who later bury Aria together.

Development

Crypt of the NecroDancer was a creation of Canadian programmer Ryan Clark, inspired by thinking about the traditional structure of roguelike games. Clark found that the player-character's death in roguelikes often occurred due to conditions created by the procedural-generation of the game as opposed to player's skill, and wanted to make a game that was more "fair" to the player to escape or avoid seemingly difficult situations.[5] Clark considered how games like Spelunky put the player more in control of their fate, as he viewed it as "a game that is really hard but you can still improve. If you die, you still know it was your fault" whereas in other games a player might die because "the game is simply unfair". However, Clark also found that removing the turn-based nature of roguelike in games like Spelunky or lost some of the flavors of roguelikes, and sought a way to maintain the turn-based nature.[5] He came up with the idea of using turns where each turn lasted only a short amount of real-time; as such the "lack of time to think renders impossible the careful study and patience of the expert NetHack player".[6] With this concept, Clark recognized that this was similar to beat-matching rhythm games, and quickly refined the concept around the rhythm-based roguelike game.[5] The title came after discovering this concept, and plays on the pun of the word "necromancer".[5]

Initially, Clark programmed the game to require the player to be relatively accurate to the music's beat, similar to the accuracy used by rhythm games. He found this timing to be too tense, as the player was more likely to miss the short accuracy window while stressed and would lead to the character being harmed, creating more stress on the player. Instead, he greatly expanded the accuracy window, as well as programmed a simple autocalibration system that recognized if the player was ahead or behind the beat to some degree to match the player's current stress levels, both aimed to help make the game fairer and remove player frustration. Furthermore, he found that when he had the player move on the beat and monsters on the half-beat, the game played too close to a roguelike and instead had all characters move on the beat, with the player's action having priority, which while posed a few drawbacks he had to program around, felt much more natural to the game.[7] [8]

The Beat tracking algorithm used in the game is known as the Multi-feature Beat tracker. It is implemented in the Essentia framework and determines the positions of the beats to estimate the beats per minute, which is then used to set the tempo for the game. The game was developed using the Monkey X programming language.[9]

The game was released on Steam early access on July 30, 2014, using public feedback to improve the title,[10] [11] with full release on April 23, 2015.[12] The game was released for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita on February 2, 2016.[13] [14] An iOS version, with support for both screen and Bluetooth controllers, was released on June 30, 2016.[15] An Xbox One version of the game was released on February 10, 2017.[16]

A downloadable content prequel expansion, Crypt of the NecroDancer: Amplified, was released through Early Access on Steam on January 24, 2017, to get feedback during development, with the full release coming later that year.[17] [18] The expansion includes an additional zone, a new boss named Fortissimole, a new protagonist called Nocturna, new non-main characters named Diamond, Mary and Tempo, a new soundtrack by OverClocked ReMix, and new items for the game, including familiars for the protagonist.[19] [20]

A Nintendo Switch version of the game, Crypt of the NecroDancer: Nintendo Switch Edition, was released on February 1, 2018. In addition to including Amplified content as part of the base package, this version introduced a new non-main character named Reaper and co-operative support.[21] [22]

A major update to Crypt of the NecroDancer was released in July 2022. Besides making the game more compatible with the Steam Deck, the update included a "No Beat" mode that allows players to play any character without needing to follow the beat (like the character Bard), as well a greatly improved level editor.[23]

In August 2022, the title received its second DLC expansion, Crypt of the Nercodancer: Synchrony, as part of Steam early access, with the full release for PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch releasing in March 2024.[24] [25] It includes three new characters, several new items, and co-op and competitive online multiplayer support for up to eight players.

A character DLC featuring Hatsune Miku was released for PC, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch in April 2024.[26] [27]

Music

The game's soundtrack was composed by Danny Baranowsky, designed to vary in speed and rhythmic complexity the farther the player gets within the game. Baranowsky's friend dubbed the new genre of music "Spookhouse Rock".[28] The game has four additional soundtracks: an EDM soundtrack by Alex Esquivel ("A_Rival") from group Super Square, a heavy metal soundtrack by YouTube personality Jules Conroy, better known as "FamilyJules",[29] a "freestyle retro" soundtrack by composer Jake Kaufman, also known as "virt", and a synthwave soundtrack by various artists from Girlfriend Records.[30] [31]

The Crypt of the Necrodancer: Amplified DLC added a fifth additional soundtrack by OverClocked ReMix.[32]

The Xbox One version of the game added a sixth additional soundtrack by Chipzel.[16]

A free update to the PC version of the game was released in August 2017, adding a seventh additional soundtrack by Masafumi Takada, consisting of arrangements from the Danganronpa franchise. The update also added in the Chipzel soundtrack from the Xbox One release.[33]

Hatsune Miku character DLC in April 2024 added an eighth soundtrack, consisting of several Hatsune Miku songs, including two new tracks composed by Baranowsky exclusively for Crypt of the Necrodancer.[34]

Reception

Critical reception was positive.[35] [36] Destructoid named the game one of their favorite entries at PAX Prime 2013,[37] and praised its execution.[38] Joystiq also gave the game a positive review.[39] Gaming Age described the game as "a wildly imaginative take on the formula".[40]

Accolades

Year Award Category Result Ref
2015SXSW Gaming AwardsExcellence in Musical Score[41]
2016The Edge Awards 2015PC Game of the Year[42]
Best Audio Design
Game Developers Choice AwardsBest Audio[43]
National Academy of Video Game Trade ReviewersOriginal Light Mix Score (New IP)[44]
Use of Sound (New IP)
Game (Music or Performance-Based)

Sequels

Cadence of Hyrule

See main article: Cadence of Hyrule. When developing the Switch version of Crypt of the Necrodancer, Brace Yourself Games approached Nintendo about providing downloadable based on Nintendo's properties, specifically The Legend of Zelda. Nintendo proved highly interested in a collaboration, leading to further discussions that resulted in a wholly new crossover game, Cadence of Hyrule - Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda, based on Crypts gameplay mechanics but taking place within the universe of Zelda.[45]

The crossover was released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on June 13, 2019. In the game's main story mode, players play as either Link or Zelda, with Cadence and Aria becoming playable later in the game.[46]

Rift of the Necrodancer

In August 2022, Brace Yourself Games announced a third title in the series, titled Rift of the NecroDancer. Taking place in the modern day, Rift is a more traditional rhythm game that sees Cadence repairing dimensional rifts created by the titular Necrodancer.[47] [48] Originally planned for a 2023 release on PC and Nintendo Switch, the game has since been delayed into 2024.[49] [50]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Screw Next-Gen Controllers, This Dungeon Crawler Uses A DDR Pad. September 6, 2013. Narcisse. Evan. Kotaku. January 14, 2014. January 25, 2018. https://web.archive.org/web/20180125215600/https://kotaku.com/screw-next-gen-controllers-this-dungeon-crawler-uses-a-1264345549. live.
  2. Web site: Explore Dungeons With DDR Dance Pads in 'Crypt of the NecroDancer'. September 6, 2013. Mashable. January 14, 2014. January 6, 2018. https://web.archive.org/web/20180106065347/http://mashable.com/2013/09/06/crypt-of-the-necrodancer/. live.
  3. Web site: Crypt of the Necrodancer . Brace Yourself Games . 15 May 2021 . May 19, 2021 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210519045819/https://braceyourselfgames.com/crypt-of-the-necrodancer/ . live.
  4. Web site: Crypt Of The NecroDancer combines intimidating influences into a friendly hybrid . Julie . Muncy . May 5, 2015 . May 11, 2015 . . May 9, 2015 . https://web.archive.org/web/20150509155223/http://www.avclub.com/article/crypt-necrodancer-combines-intimidating-influences-219007 . live.
  5. Web site: Dance Yourself to Death With Crypt of the Necrodancer . Mike . Williams . June 23, 2013 . April 16, 2015 . . September 10, 2015 . https://web.archive.org/web/20150910035007/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/dance-yourself-to-death-with-crypt-of-the-necrodancer . live.
  6. Web site: A roguelike that's a rhythm game? Jesus Christ, FINALLY! . Ben . Kuchera . September 3, 2013 . August 13, 2014 . . https://web.archive.org/web/20131231030452/http://penny-arcade.com/report/article/a-roguelike-thats-a-rhythm-game-jesus-christ-finally . December 31, 2013.
  7. Web site: NecroDancer Update v3.0.0 . Brace Yourself Games . June 30, 2022 . July 1, 2022 . June 30, 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220630234454/https://steamcommunity.com/games/247080/announcements/detail/3362515187808095128 . live.
  8. Web site: Game Design Deep Dive: Finding the beat in Crypt of the NecroDancer . Ryan . Clark . September 17, 2014 . October 3, 2016 . . October 5, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20161005143232/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/225547/Game_Design_Deep_Dive_Finding_the_beat_in_Crypt_of_the_NecroDancer.php . live.
  9. Web site: Monkey X - Crypt of the NecroDancer . July 25, 2014 . August 8, 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140808062533/http://www.monkey-x.com/Community/posts.php?topic=5335&page=1 . dead.
  10. Web site: Rhythm roguelike Cyrpt of the Necrodancer hits Steam Early Access on July 30 . . Alexa Rae . Corriea . July 17, 2014 . July 17, 2014 . July 19, 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140719032617/http://www.polygon.com/2014/7/17/5912861/cyrpt-of-the-necrodancer-steam-early-access-july-30 . live.
  11. Web site: Announcement of public development. January 23, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20170915023759/http://braceyourselfgames.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3. September 15, 2017. dead.
  12. Crypt of the Necrodancer . https://web.archive.org/web/20150418164033/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/crypt_of_the_necrodancer/b/pc/archive/2015/04/16/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-shuffles-to-full-release-april-23.aspx . dead . April 18, 2015 . Matt . Bertz . April 16, 2015 . April 16, 2015 . Game Informer.
  13. Web site: PS4, Vita Getting Rhythm-Based Roguelike Crypt of the Necrodancer. Alex. Newhouse. GameSpot. July 10, 2015. July 11, 2015. July 13, 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20150713024458/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps4-vita-getting-rhythm-based-roguelike-crypt-of-t/1100-6428804/. live.
  14. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer Hits PS4, PS Vita on February 2nd . Heather . Wilson . January 12, 2016 . January 12, 2016 . . March 14, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170314071158/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2016/01/12/crypt-of-the-Necrodancer-hits-ps4-ps-vita-on-february-2nd/ . live.
  15. Web site: Crypt of the Necrodancer now available on iOS . Michael . McWhertor . June 30, 2016 . June 30, 2016 . . July 1, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160701020128/http://www.polygon.com/2016/6/30/12074648/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-ios-iphone-ipad-apple-tv . live.
  16. NecroDancerGame . 826505064076423168 . January 31, 2017 . Crypt of the NecroDancer is coming to @Xbox on Feb 10. February 1, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170417060926/https://twitter.com/NecroDancerGame/status/826505064076423168. April 17, 2017.
  17. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer: AMPLIFIED! . September 2, 2017 . January 26, 2017 . Brace Yourself Games . February 2, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170202052909/http://steamcommunity.com/games/247080/announcements/detail/590357460424141922 . live.
  18. News: Crypt of the NecroDancer DLC Amplified boogies into Early Access . Phillippa . Warr . January 25, 2017 . January 25, 2017 . . January 25, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170125144317/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2017/01/25/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-amplified-early-access/ . live.
  19. Web site: Nice! Crypt of the NecroDancer is getting a DLC prequel . Jordan . Devore . December 22, 2016 . December 25, 2016 . . December 24, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20161224030654/https://www.destructoid.com/nice-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-is-getting-a-dlc-prequel-407094.phtml . live.
  20. Web site: Crypt of the Necrodancer: Amplified is coming to Early Access in January . Andy . Chalk . December 22, 2016 . December 25, 2016 . . https://web.archive.org/web/20170509132348/http://www.pcgamer.com/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-amplified-is-coming-to-early-access-in-january/ . May 9, 2017 . dead.
  21. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer coming to Nintendo Switch . Chris . Moyse . September 14, 2017 . September 14, 2017 . . September 14, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170914194422/https://www.destructoid.com/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-coming-to-nintendo-switch-461103.phtml . live.
  22. Web site: Rhythmic dungeon crawler Crypt of the NecroDancer launches on Switch this week . Matt . Wales . January 31, 2018 . January 31, 2018 . . February 1, 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180201080811/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-01-31-rhythmic-dungeon-crawler-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-launches-on-switch-this-week . live.
  23. Web site: The rhythm game so good Nintendo made it a Zelda game gets a no-rhythm mode . Dustin . Bailey . July 1, 2022 . July 1, 2022 . . July 1, 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220701165512/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-rhythm-game-so-good-nintendo-made-it-a-zelda-game-gets-a-no-rhythm-mode/ . live.
  24. News: Crypt of the NecroDancer DLC 'SYNCHRONY' now available in Early Access for PC . Romano . Sal . Gematsu . August 4, 2022 . April 10, 2024 . August 4, 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220804172331/https://www.gematsu.com/2022/08/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-dlc-synchrony-now-available-in-early-access-for-pc . live.
  25. News: Crypt of the NecroDancer DLC 'SYNCHRONY' now available for PS4, Switch, and PC . Romano . Sal . Gematsu . March 13, 2024 . April 10, 2024 . March 13, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240313173644/https://www.gematsu.com/2024/03/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-dlc-synchrony-now-available-for-ps4-switch-and-pc . live.
  26. Web site: Hatsune Miku's Crypt of the NecroDancer crossover is a perfect fit . Franzese . Tomas . . April 4, 2024 . April 4, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240404163112/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/hatsune-miku-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-dlc/ . April 4, 2024 . live.
  27. Brace Yourself Games . Brace Yourself Games . NecroDancerGame . 1779916158940111075 . April 15, 2024 .
    1. NintendoSwitch players, thank you for your patience! The Crypt of the NecroDancer: Hatsune Miku Character DLC should now be available for you with a 10% launch discount.
    . en . April 15, 2024.
  28. Web site: Archived copy . November 24, 2019 . February 25, 2021 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210225024107/https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steam/apps/2038794/movie480.webm?t=1447373419 . live.
  29. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer to feature two remixed soundtracks via newgame+ and newgame++ . April 21, 2015 . April 21, 2015 . . March 4, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160304062644/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/241604/Crypt_of_the_NecroDancer_to_feature_two_remixed_soundtracksvia_newgame_and_newgame.php . live.
  30. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer launches today on PS4 and PS Vita! . February 2, 2016 . April 3, 2016 . . August 7, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160807040728/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/264975/Crypt_of_the_NecroDancer_launches_today_on_PS4_and_PSVita.php . live.
  31. Web site: BIG UPDATE! 2 new playable OSTs, new languages, and more! . May 2, 2016 . January 26, 2017 . Brace Yourself Games . November 13, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20161113053847/http://steamcommunity.com/games/247080/announcements/detail/611738382089044545 . live.
  32. Web site: Crypt of the Necrodancer DLC Adds New Character, Music and Loot. Jackson. Gita. Kotaku. January 24, 2017. January 26, 2017. January 27, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170127055950/http://kotaku.com/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-dlc-adds-new-character-music-1791619892. live.
  33. Web site: Huge FREE Chipzel and Danganronpa update!. Brace Yourself Games. August 22, 2017. June 23, 2019. November 12, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20201112025714/https://steamcommunity.com/games/247080/announcements/detail/2523559863551442132. live.
  34. Web site: 9 years in, rhythm dungeon crawler Crypt of the NecroDancer just got a Hatsune Miku crossover DLC. Litchfield. Ted. PC Gamer. April 7, 2024. April 10, 2024. April 7, 2024. https://web.archive.org/web/20240407212123/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/roguelike/9-years-in-rhythm-dungeon-crawler-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-just-got-a-hatsune-miku-crossover-dlc/. live.
  35. Web site: Roguelike meets rhythm game in the joyous Crypt of the NecroDancer. PC Gamer. January 14, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20140115120851/http://www.pcgamer.com/2013/05/25/roguelike-meets-rhythm-game-in-the-joyous-crypt-of-the-necrodancer/. January 15, 2014. dead.
  36. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer pairs roguelike dungeon crawling with DDR rhythm. September 2, 2013. McWhertor. Michael. Polygon. January 14, 2014. January 15, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20140115060429/http://www.polygon.com/2013/9/2/4685928/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-pairs-roguelike-dungeon-crawling-with-ddr. live.
  37. Web site: Our top 10 favorite games of PAX Prime 2013 . August 31, 2013 . January 13, 2014 . January 13, 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140113155506/http://www.destructoid.com/our-top-10-favorite-games-of-pax-prime-2013-261077.phtml . live.
  38. Web site: Review: Tales from the Crypt (of the NecroDancer). September 4, 2013. Destructoid. January 14, 2014. January 15, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20140115005159/http://www.destructoid.com/tales-from-the-crypt-of-the-necrodancer--261274.phtml. live.
  39. Web site: Pounding beats and dragons in Crypt of the NecroDancer . August 31, 2013 . January 13, 2014 . David . Hinkle . . February 8, 2015 . https://web.archive.org/web/20150208182356/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/31/pounding-beats-and-dragons-in-crypt-of-the-necrodancer/ . live.
  40. Web site: Crypt of the NecroDancer review for PC . April 27, 2015 . May 28, 2020 . Gaming Age . September 23, 2020 . https://web.archive.org/web/20200923141714/https://gaming-age.com/2015/04/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-review-for-pc/ . live.
  41. Web site: SXSW Gaming Awards 2016 Winners Announced . Khan . Zarmena . March 20, 2016 . December 2, 2017 . December 2, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20171202102821/http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2016/03/20/sxsw-gaming-awards-2016-winners/ . live.
  42. . The Edge Awards . . 289. . 76–87. February 2016.
  43. Web site: Game Developers Choice Award winners led by Her Story, The Witcher 3 . . Michael . McWheator . March 16, 2016 . March 16, 2016 . April 14, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160414044520/http://www.polygon.com/2016/3/17/11251484/game-developers-choice-award-winners-led-by-her-story-the-witcher-3 . live.
  44. Web site: NAVGTR Awards (2015). National Academy of Video Game Trade Reviewers. February 21, 2017. February 22, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170222111933/http://navgtr.org/winners/2015-winners. live.
  45. Web site: How an Indie Developer Is Making an Official Zelda Game . . Marks . Tom . March 20, 2019 . March 20, 2019 . March 20, 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20190320200510/https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/03/20/how-an-indie-developer-is-making-an-official-zelda-game . live.
  46. Web site: Cadence of Hyrule is an indie-developed Zelda spinoff for the Switch . Andrew . Webster . March 20, 2019 . March 20, 2019 . . March 21, 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20190321133858/https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/20/18273199/cadence-of-hyrule-zelda-spinoff-nintendo-switch . live.
  47. News: Crypt of the Necrodancer studio stealth-reveals a sequel . Chalk . Andy . . August 4, 2022 . August 4, 2022 . August 4, 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220804191244/https://www.pcgamer.com/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-studio-stealth-reveals-a-sequel/ . live.
  48. Rift of the NecroDancer Reveal Trailer . . . 2022-08-24 . en.
  49. Web site: Rift Of The NecroDancer Confirmed To Rock And Roll On Switch This Year . Hagues . Alana . April 19, 2023 . April 10, 2024 . Nintendo Life.
  50. Brace Yourself Games . Brace Yourself Games . NecroDancerGame . 1691157759037968384 . August 14, 2023 . Hey folks! We have 2 pieces of big news to share about Rift of the NecroDancer today: 1. Rift is now being published by our good friends at @klei 2. Rift is now targeting a 2024 release More info in ! 1/6 . en . April 10, 2024.