Dead Cells is an action roguelite that combines the run-based structure of roguelikes with the exploration of Metroidvania games. You play as a mysterious blob of cells that takes control of a headless body in a cursed island kingdom. Every time you die, you start again, but with new knowledge and permanent unlocks.
Dead Cells is available on many platforms, but we focused on the mobile version for this review because it is one of the best premium action games available on phones.
How it plays
Each run takes you through a series of biomes, from prisons and sewers to castles and clock towers. You fight enemies, collect weapons and items, and decide which path to take. Bosses guard key points, and defeating them unlocks new areas.
Combat is fast and fluid. You roll through attacks, parry with shields, use weapons with different speeds and effects, and deploy skills like traps and grenades. Learning enemy patterns and timing your moves is key.
Weapons and builds
Dead Cells has a huge variety of weapons, from swords and spears to bows, whips and magic. Each weapon has unique effects, and scrolls increase your stats in different colour categories: brutality, tactics and survival. Combining weapons, skills and mutations creates many builds.
Progression
Cells collected from enemies can be spent on permanent unlocks between biomes. These include new weapons that may appear in future runs, health flasks and quality-of-life improvements. Runes found in certain areas unlock new movement abilities, opening paths in earlier biomes.
Difficulty
Dead Cells is challenging. Enemies hit hard, and a single mistake can end a run. Boss Stem Cells increase difficulty after you finish the game, adding new challenges and rewards. The game can be punishing, but improving feels rewarding.
Mobile controls
The mobile version uses virtual buttons for movement, attacking and skills. Controls are customisable, and an auto-attack option helps. Still, precise combat on a touchscreen takes practice. The game supports controllers, and with a controller, the mobile version plays almost like the console version.
Performance
On modern phones, Dead Cells runs smoothly. Older phones may struggle in busy scenes. Battery usage is moderate, and playing with a controller is more comfortable for longer sessions.
No ads, no energy
Unlike many mobile games, Dead Cells is a premium game with no ads or energy systems. You buy it once and play as much as you like. DLC expansions add new biomes, weapons and bosses for an extra cost.
DLC
Expansions add significant content. Some introduce new paths and bosses, while others bring crossovers with famous franchises. They are optional but add variety for long-term players.
Tips for new players
- Use a shield to learn parry timing
- Pick one stat colour and focus on it
- Spend cells on health flask upgrades early
- Explore every area for hidden items
- Use a controller if possible on mobile
Who is it for?
Dead Cells is for players who enjoy challenging action and replayable runs. It is perfect for mobile players who want a premium experience without ads.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dead Cells hard? Yes, but it becomes easier as you learn and unlock upgrades.
Is the mobile version complete? Yes, it includes the full game, with DLC available.
Can I use a controller on mobile? Yes, controllers are supported.
Why it stands out on mobile
Many mobile action games rely on auto-battles or energy systems. Dead Cells offers real skill-based combat, deep progression and a premium experience. It shows what mobile games can be when designed with care.
Comparing it to other roguelikes
Compared to games like Hades, Dead Cells has more platforming and exploration, while Hades focuses more on story and top-down combat. Both are excellent. Dead Cells is especially good for players who enjoy side-scrolling action.
Art and music
The pixel art is detailed and expressive, with smooth animations. The soundtrack mixes rock and orchestral styles, adding energy to fights.
Accessibility options
Dead Cells includes accessibility settings, such as adjusting enemy attack speed, adding more health or making traps less dangerous. These options let more players enjoy the game, especially on mobile where precise controls can be harder.
Our experience
We started on touch controls and enjoyed it, but switching to a Bluetooth controller made a huge difference. Commutes and lunch breaks turned into quick runs, and each death taught us something new.
Value for money
Dead Cells on mobile costs a one-time price that is often lower than console versions, and it frequently goes on sale on app stores. For dozens of hours of high-quality action with no ads, it is excellent value.
Best weapons for beginners
Balanced weapons like simple swords and shields are great for learning. Ranged weapons let you attack safely, and traps help control crowds. Experimenting is key, as some weapons may suit your playstyle better.
Recommended controllers
Most Bluetooth controllers designed for Android or iOS work well with Dead Cells. A controller with a phone clip lets you play comfortably anywhere. If you already own a PlayStation or Xbox controller, those usually connect easily to modern phones too, and the game recognises them automatically.
Save and cloud
Progress on mobile is saved locally and can be backed up through your platform’s cloud features, depending on your device. Before switching phones, check that your save data is backed up so you do not lose your unlocks.
Our verdict on the mobile version
If you have played Dead Cells elsewhere, the mobile version is a great way to keep playing on the go. If you are new, it is an excellent introduction to the genre, especially with a controller.
Who should skip it?
Players who dislike difficult action games or touch controls without a controller may find it frustrating.
Verdict
Dead Cells is a superb action roguelite and one of the best premium games on mobile. Its fluid combat, weapon variety and progression make every run exciting. Touch controls take practice, and the difficulty can be harsh, but with a controller, it is a near-perfect portable action game.
